Public Information Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) is a regional arm of the United Nations established to promote economic and social development in Africa. ECA's mission is to deliver ideas and actions for an empowered and transformed Africa, informed by the 2030 Agenda and Agenda 206

• The organization operates with a focus on advancing its position as a premier knowledge institution, developing macroeconomic and structural policy options, designing innovative financing models, contributing to regional challenges, and advocating Africa's position at the global level. ECA aims to bring global solutions to the continent's problems and take local solutions to the continent. The organization has a significant presence in various African countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to its mission.

Job Overview:
The Public Information Officer position is located in the Office of the Executive Secretary (OES) at the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA). The incumbent will work under the direct supervision of the Chief of Section and closely collaborate with the Chief of Staff. The role involves implementing information programs to publicize priority issues and major events, drafting information strategies, coordinating efforts, monitoring progress, and analyzing outcomes. The officer will also be responsible for promoting media coverage of priority issues, developing media strategies, and producing various communication products. The position requires the ability to analyze current events, public opinion, and press trends, advising management on appropriate actions. The officer will also engage with key constituencies, sustain professional relationships, and provide guidance to junior staff. The role demands a proactive approach to media outreach and the ability to collect and analyze data for informed decision-making.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Public Information Officer will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Implementing information programs to publicize priority issues and major events.
• Drafting information strategies and coordinating efforts to monitor and report on progress.
• Analyzing current events and public opinion to advise management on appropriate responses.
• Promoting media coverage through press conferences, interviews, and seminars.
• Developing media strategies and action plans, initiating outreach efforts, and arranging press coverage.
• Producing or overseeing the production of various communication products, including press kits, releases, articles, and audiovisual materials.
• Preparing drafts for UN newsletters, reports, and books based on official documentation.
• Acting as a focal point on specific issues, monitoring developments, and responding to inquiries.
• Collecting and analyzing data to identify trends and provide insights through data visualization methods. 1
• Performing other duties as assigned, which may include supervising junior staff and participating in team efforts to achieve organizational goals.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of communications approaches, tools, and methodologies essential for effective campaign strategies. They should demonstrate the ability to analyze and integrate diverse information, identify public affairs issues, and handle sensitive situations diplomatically. The role requires excellent written and oral communication skills, the ability to tailor messages to different audiences, and a commitment to gender perspectives in all areas of work. Candidates should also exhibit professionalism, teamwork, and a strong sense of responsibility in their work.

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 combined with two additional years of qualifying work experience may be accepted. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is considered an advantage.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in public information, journalism, international relations, or public administration is required. Candidates should have extensive experience running high-impact creative social media campaigns in the development sector, demonstrating results at national, regional, and global levels. Experience in the private sector as a Public Relations professional in marketing and advertising is desirable, as is experience in the creative arts. Additionally, two or more years of experience in data analytics or related areas is desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English or French is required, as these are the working languages of the UN Secretariat. Knowledge of the other language is desirable, and knowledge of another UN official language is considered an advantage.

Additional Notes:
The position is subject to the authority of the Secretary-General, and staff members are expected to move periodically to new functions in their careers. The United Nations is committed to achieving a 50/50 gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization values diversity and inclusivity, ensuring equal opportunities regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, race, or background. Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities may be provided. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and candidates are urged to follow all application instructions carefully.