Communications Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization that works with countries to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through the sustainable development of nations. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, helping to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and promote transformational change. In Pakistan, UNDP collaborates with the government and local communities to address development challenges, enhance governance, and promote human rights. The organization focuses on building partnerships with various stakeholders, including civil society, the private sector, and international communities, to foster inclusive and sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The Communications Specialist position is a vital role within the UNDP Pakistan's Decentralization, Human Rights and Local Governance (DHL) project. The incumbent will be stationed at the Ministry of Human Rights (MoHR) in Islamabad and will play a crucial role in supporting the Ministry's communications, outreach, and advocacy efforts under the Huqooq–e–Pakistan II project. This position requires the development and implementation of a comprehensive communication strategy that aligns with the project's objectives and human rights principles. The Communications Specialist will engage with various stakeholders, including government entities, civil society organizations, and the media, to promote the project's impact and achievements. The role also involves monitoring and evaluating communication efforts to ensure effectiveness and adapt strategies as necessary. The overall aim is to enhance the visibility of human rights initiatives and foster an inclusive approach to governance in Pakistan.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Communications Specialist will be responsible for a range of duties, including:

• Developing a comprehensive communication strategy that aligns with the project's objectives and human rights principles.
• Conducting stakeholder mapping and audience segmentation to identify communication gaps and opportunities.
• Designing targeted messaging strategies for different stakeholder groups, including government, civil society organizations, private sector, media, and the general public.
• Implementing the communication strategy across various platforms, ensuring consistent messaging and visibility for the project's objectives.
• Overseeing the production of key communication materials such as press releases, newsletters, reports, and social media content.
• Coordinating with federal ministries and provincial human rights departments for joint communications initiatives.
• Managing media outreach, including drafting press materials and engaging with journalists.
• Supporting the organization of public events, conferences, and workshops to maximize impact and stakeholder participation.
• Monitoring the effectiveness of communication activities and contributing to documentation of best practices and lessons learned. 1
• Collaborating with the Project Coordination Expert and provincial teams to tailor communications to regional contexts.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for the Communications Specialist position should possess strong communication skills, both written and verbal, and have a deep understanding of human rights issues. They should be able to develop and implement effective communication strategies and have experience in stakeholder engagement. The candidate should also demonstrate creativity and adaptability in their approach to communication, with the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously are essential. Additionally, the candidate should have a good understanding of media relations and experience in producing communication materials.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, social sciences, or a related field is required for this position. A master's degree in a relevant discipline would be an advantage. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in communication theory and practice, as well as an understanding of human rights and governance issues.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 3-5 years of professional experience in communications, public relations, or a related field. Experience working with government entities, civil society organizations, or international development agencies is highly desirable. The candidate should have a proven track record of developing and implementing communication strategies and managing media relations. Experience in monitoring and evaluating communication efforts is also beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Proficiency in Urdu or other local languages is highly desirable, as it will facilitate communication with local stakeholders and communities. Knowledge of additional languages would be an asset.

Additional Notes:
This is a national UNV assignment, and the UN Volunteer will be responsible for arranging their own housing and living essentials. The UNV Field Unit will assist in opening a local bank account for the volunteer. The position may require flexibility in working hours and the ability to travel within Pakistan as needed. The role is full-time and aims to enhance the visibility of human rights initiatives in the country.