Communications Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office for Partnerships (UN Partnerships) serves as a vital link to the UN system, facilitating partnerships that aim to deliver solutions aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The organization is guided by the priorities set forth by the UN Secretary-General and plays a crucial role in connecting various stakeholders to co-create initiatives that address global challenges. UN Partnerships oversees several key programs, including the UN Fund for International Partnerships (UNFIP), the UN Democracy Fund (UNDEF), and the SDG Advocates programme. The organization is committed to fostering collaboration and innovation to achieve the SDGs and operates with a mission to engage diverse partners in meaningful ways.

Job Overview:
The Communications Officer will play a pivotal role in leading the strategy, planning, development, and implementation of large-scale communications campaigns. This includes crafting speeches, enhancing social media presence, and executing global promotional initiatives. The incumbent will work closely with various UN departments, funds, and agencies to ensure that campaign messages are integrated across all relevant events and products. The role requires identifying funding sources for major campaigns and providing expert advice on public affairs issues to senior management. The Communications Officer will also develop strategic partnerships with key constituencies to maximize the impact of promotional objectives and serve as a spokesperson for the organization. This position demands a high level of creativity and strategic thinking to produce compelling communications materials that resonate with diverse audiences.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Communications Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including leading the development and implementation of complex communications campaigns, identifying funding sources for major initiatives, and advising senior officials on public information strategies. The role involves preparing a variety of communications products, including speeches, social media content, and reports, as well as evaluating the effectiveness of communications activities. The incumbent will represent the organization at meetings and conferences, organize media coverage, and manage the production of materials for various media formats. Additionally, the Communications Officer will oversee the maintenance of publicly accessible information materials and develop outreach activities to engage stakeholders effectively.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in public information and communications, with the ability to address complex issues in the context of political developments and public attitudes. The role requires excellent writing skills, the ability to produce high-quality communications products, and the capacity to handle sensitive situations diplomatically. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, effective communication skills, and the ability to plan and organize work efficiently. A commitment to gender perspectives and equal participation in all areas of work is essential.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in communication, journalism, international relations, public administration, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent) with two additional years of relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in public information, journalism, international relations, or public administration is required. Candidates should have experience in strategic communications, including writing impactful speeches and briefing notes for senior leadership. Experience in designing and implementing multi-platform communications campaigns and managing content for websites and social media is also essential. Collaboration with partners to develop compelling global campaigns is desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another official United Nations language, such as French, is considered desirable.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available until December 31, 2025, and is subject to the availability of funding. The appointment will be administered as a temporary assignment for current UN staff members. The selection process may be limited to internal candidates, and applicants must adhere to the eligibility requirements outlined in the job posting. The United Nations is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, race, or disability. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request.