Associate Communications Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development System was reformed on January 1, 2019, to enhance its effectiveness in achieving the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The UN Resident Coordinator Offices (UN RCO) play a crucial role in this reform, led by an empowered UN Resident Coordinator who represents the UN Secretary-General at the country level. The organization aims to support countries in achieving their development priorities and the SDGs, operating in various countries worldwide with a focus on collaboration and partnership.

Job Overview:
The Associate Communications Officer is responsible for maintaining relationships with management and other communications specialists within the UN system, as well as with external stakeholders such as government officials, civil society representatives, and media. This role involves gathering insights from various media sources, implementing communication strategies, drafting narratives, and fostering relationships with media outlets. The officer will also act as a spokesperson when required and contribute to the development of communication campaigns that engage target audiences effectively. The position is critical in ensuring that the UN's work is communicated effectively to diverse audiences, thereby raising awareness and driving engagement.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will perform a variety of duties including: gathering insights from media monitoring to inform communication strategies; implementing strategies that raise awareness and drive engagement; drafting compelling narratives and messaging; fostering relationships with media outlets; developing media lines for crisis situations; planning and coordinating press events; acting as a spokesperson; creating optimized content for various platforms; producing communication products like press releases and reports; developing strategic communications partnerships; delivering outreach and advocacy strategies; creating content for UN radio channels; updating policy and training related to strategic communications; preparing reports for governmental bodies; analyzing communication strategies for effectiveness; and maintaining confidentiality and integrity in handling sensitive information.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate professionalism, critical thinking skills, and the ability to develop creative content. They should possess knowledge of digital design and the ability to analyze data to support decision-making. The role requires effective communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. Candidates should also show a commitment to gender perspectives and equal participation in all areas of work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in communication, journalism, international relations, digital communications, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted. Completion of programs in data analytics or related fields is an advantage.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in developing and implementing communications strategies is required. Candidates should have experience in public outreach initiatives and translating technical results into strategic communications. Experience in data analytics is desirable, as is experience in producing high-quality communication outputs for diverse audiences using various media.

Languages:
Fluency in English and French is required, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another official UN language is an advantage. Fluency is defined as a rating of 'fluent' in all four areas: reading, writing, speaking, and understanding.

Additional Notes:
This is a fixed-term limited position with an initial appointment of one year, subject to availability of funds and budgetary approval. The position is open to nationals of Senegal only, and candidates must be recruited within the country or commuting distance of the office. If no suitable local candidates are found, Senegalese nationals residing elsewhere may be considered. The UN Secretariat is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and reasonable accommodations will be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request.