Communication and Information Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) was established in 1945 with the mission to contribute to peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security by promoting international collaboration through educational, scientific, and cultural reforms. UNESCO operates in over 190 countries and has a workforce of approximately 2,000 employees. The organization focuses on building peace in the minds of men and women, fostering sustainable development, and promoting freedom of expression and access to information.

Job Overview:
The Communication and Information Specialist position is integral to UNESCO's mission of promoting freedom of expression, media development, and knowledge societies. The role is based in Kinshasa, where the incumbent will provide professional and technical support, conduct research and analysis, and focus on the national perspective of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The position involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including the regional office in Yaoundé, and aligns with UNESCO's Medium-Term Strategy and global development goals such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 203

• The specialist will contribute to the development and implementation of national capacity-building programs and projects, ensuring they align with UNESCO's communication and information objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the Communication and Information Specialist include supporting program and project development, administration, and implementation. This involves drafting detailed work plans, task descriptions, budgets, and performance indicators for projects. The specialist will identify areas for improving project alignment with UNESCO's communication objectives and implement specific project activities while documenting progress against predefined performance indicators. Responsibilities also include conducting situation analyses, compiling data for conceptual notes, publications, and reports, and providing logistical and administrative support for projects and events. The specialist will lead local support staff as needed and contribute to the preparation of methodological guides for implementation and evaluation. Additionally, the role involves conducting research and analysis, managing knowledge systems, and ensuring that content is accessible to staff. The specialist will analyze potential partnerships and support external communication efforts by generating promotional materials and assisting in resource mobilization efforts.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a higher university degree (master's or equivalent) in communication, journalism, information sciences, or related fields. They should have at least two years of relevant professional experience in communication, journalism, or information sciences at the national or sub-regional level. Experience in project preparation and implementation, advocacy, resource mobilization, and partnerships is essential. Strong project management skills, including results-oriented management, financial management, monitoring, evaluation, and reporting, are required. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, the ability to negotiate effectively, and proficiency in information technology are also necessary.

Educational Background:
A higher university degree (master's or equivalent) in communication, journalism, information sciences, or related fields is required. A doctoral degree in these areas is preferred but not mandatory.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in communication, journalism, or information sciences, particularly in national or sub-regional contexts. Experience within the United Nations system or similar international organizations is highly desirable, especially in coordinating inter-institutional platforms and managing intersectoral initiatives.

Languages:
Fluency in French (written and spoken) is mandatory, along with a good command of English. Knowledge of another official UNESCO language (Arabic, Chinese, Spanish, or Russian) is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
The position is a fixed-term contract for two years, with the possibility of renewal. It is open to both internal and external candidates, but only nationals of the Democratic Republic of the Congo may apply. The annual salary for this position is approximately $63,959, which includes a base salary and additional benefits such as annual leave, family allowance, medical insurance, and retirement plans. The selection process will involve online applications, assessments, and interviews, with a focus on ensuring the highest quality of work and integrity in recruitment. UNESCO promotes a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourages applications from underrepresented groups.