Communications Specialist Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
UN Women was established in July 2010 by the United Nations General Assembly as part of the UN reform agenda to enhance gender equality and women's empowerment. The organization combines resources and mandates from four previously distinct parts of the UN system, focusing exclusively on gender equality and women's empowerment. UN Women operates globally, working with Member States and civil society to eliminate discrimination against women and girls, empower women, and achieve equality between women and men. The organization emphasizes placing women's rights at the center of its efforts and leads the coordination of UN system efforts to ensure commitments on gender equality translate into action worldwide. UN Women is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, employing individuals regardless of race, religion, gender identity, or other characteristics, and adheres to a zero-tolerance policy on misconduct.

Job Overview:
The Communications Specialist Consultant will be responsible for developing and executing media materials related to women's empowerment and leadership in Lebanon. This role involves managing the Feminist Platform's website, producing various media materials, and supporting communication needs across multiple programs, including Women's Political Participation, Women's Economic Empowerment, and the Women's Peace and Humanitarian Fund. The consultant will work closely with the Women's Political Participation Programme Manager and will be expected to create a robust media campaign to disseminate findings from a study on women's participation in political parties in Lebanon. The consultant will also be tasked with developing comprehensive communication strategies that align with program goals, producing reports and presentations, and organizing training sessions for implementing partners on communication guidelines.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's responsibilities include managing the Feminist Platform's website, producing media materials such as press releases, visuals, and videos, and developing communication strategies that align with program objectives. The consultant will draft a full communication plan, support event preparations, create branding materials, and organize training sessions for partners. Additionally, the consultant will be responsible for writing and disseminating press releases, producing human-interest stories, and ensuring the visibility of the project through various media channels. The consultant will also be expected to develop a micro page on UN Women Lebanon's website and frequently update it with relevant stories and publications.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree (or equivalent) in communications, public relations, journalism, or a relevant field. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. The consultant should have strong knowledge of web-based knowledge management systems, production, graphic design, and social media outreach. Strong oral and written communication skills, as well as the ability to provide strategic advice, are essential. Knowledge of gender and human rights issues is desirable, and candidates should demonstrate a commitment to gender equality and women's empowerment.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree in communications, public relations, journalism, or a relevant field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of professional work experience at the national or international level in public relations, communications, or advocacy, including media relations. Experience in social media is required, and familiarity with gender and human rights issues is considered an asset. Proficiency in computer skills, statistics, internet communication, and MS Office is also required.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory. Knowledge of Arabic or French is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in diverse contexts.

Additional Notes:
This is a home-based consultancy position. UN Women emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its workforce and adheres to a zero-tolerance policy regarding misconduct. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks, including verification of academic credentials and employment history. Applicants must ensure that all sections of the application form are completed to avoid disqualification from the recruitment process.