Communications and Partnerships Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Bureau of External Relations and Advocacy (BERA) is a vital part of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which is recognized as the world’s leading global development agency. BERA's mission is to enhance UNDP's global authority and thought leadership on sustainable development, addressing interconnected issues such as poverty, inequality, and climate change. Established to create strong political and financial backing for UNDP, BERA operates through a network of Representation Offices in key locations including Brussels, Copenhagen, Geneva, Tokyo, Germany, and Washington D.C. It collaborates with Regional Teams across five hubs to strengthen relationships with public and private partners, ensuring a robust brand presence for UNDP in local ecosystems. BERA leads global campaigns on critical development issues, aiming to influence government policies and build partnerships around impactful solutions. The Bureau coordinates corporate standards across partnerships, marketing, and communications, ensuring effective internal communications within UNDP.

Job Overview:
The Communications and Partnerships Specialist plays a crucial role in supporting the Washington Representation Office (WRO) of UNDP. This position is responsible for implementing corporate partnerships strategies and providing strategic and operational advice on outreach, communications, and publication strategies. The Specialist's primary goal is to inform key stakeholders, including the U.S. Government, foundations, and other influential entities, about UNDP's role in global development. The position requires the development and maintenance of strategic partnerships with U.S.-based foundations, NGOs, think tanks, and multilaterals. The Specialist will also manage day-to-day relations with media organizations and enhance UNDP's online presence. The role involves creating strategic communications, including events, blogs, op-eds, and social media content, to highlight UNDP's contributions to poverty alleviation, human development, and building resilient societies. The Specialist will also support risk and reputation management efforts, ensuring UNDP's messaging is effective and impactful.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Communications and Partnerships Specialist will undertake a variety of duties, including: 1) Planning and implementing WRO communications and outreach strategies, assessing communications needs, and providing advice on effective messaging. 2) Drafting materials for global communications projects and participating in global communications conference calls. 3) Maintaining the WRO website and other communication channels with engaging content. 4) Advising on media relations and managing media inquiries. 5) Identifying reputational risks and ensuring the uptake of UNDP communications products by major media outlets. 6) Supporting WRO partnerships efforts by enhancing existing partnerships and developing new alliances with foundations and the private sector. 7) Coordinating high-level visits and missions for UNDP officials. 8) Leading knowledge management efforts by synthesizing best practices and providing training to UNDP staff. The Specialist will also be expected to work collaboratively across units and functions to achieve strategic goals.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in Communications, Journalism, Media Relations, International Development, Social Sciences, Public Administration, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) combined with two additional years of qualifying experience will be considered. A minimum of five years of relevant work experience in advocacy, communications, journalism, or international development is required, with seven years of experience acceptable for those with a bachelor’s degree. Experience in international organizations and public relations is essential, along with professional working experience with U.S. entities and robust media relations. Candidates should also have experience with web-based management systems and social media, as well as a sound understanding of UNDP’s work.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Communications, Journalism, Media Relations, International Development, Social Sciences, Public Administration, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related area. A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in these fields, combined with additional qualifying experience, will also be considered. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of communications and partnerships in the context of international development.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant work experience for candidates with a master’s degree, or seven years for those with a bachelor’s degree. This experience should be in advocacy, communications, journalism, or international development. Candidates must have a proven track record of working in international organizations and/or public relations, with a strong emphasis on experience with U.S. entities, including government, philanthropies, and the private sector. Familiarity with media relations and established networks with journalists and influencers in the U.S. is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. While English is the primary language of communication, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly in enhancing communication with diverse stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in the Washington Representation Office of UNDP and is expected to be a full-time role. The incumbent will not have supervisory responsibilities but will be required to collaborate across various teams and functions. The role may involve occasional travel for high-level visits and missions. UNDP is committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce and encourages qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization adheres to strict standards against harassment and discrimination, ensuring a safe and inclusive workplace for all employees.