Communication Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) is one of the five regional commissions of the United Nations, established to promote inclusive and sustainable economic and social development across the African continent. ECA's mission is to transform ideas into actionable strategies that empower and uplift Africa, aligning its efforts with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and Agenda 206

• The organization operates with a focus on five strategic directions: enhancing its role as a premier knowledge policy institution, developing macroeconomic policies to foster economic diversification and job creation, implementing innovative financing models for infrastructure and social assets, addressing regional challenges with an emphasis on peace and social inclusion, and advocating for Africa's interests on the global stage. ECA's Strategic Planning, Oversight and Results Division (SPORD) is responsible for promoting accountability and transparency within the Commission's operations, comprising three sections that focus on corporate policy, monitoring and evaluation, and quality assurance. The organization is committed to fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence in its mission to support Africa's development goals.

Job Overview:
The Communication Consultant will play a pivotal role in enhancing the communication capacity of ECA’s Strategic Planning, Oversight and Results Division (SPORD). This position involves the development and dissemination of key communication materials, including the annual report and quarterly bulletins, which are essential for conveying the division's work and impact. The consultant will be expected to conduct thorough research, engage with stakeholders, and produce high-quality written content that effectively communicates SPORD's objectives and achievements. The role requires a blend of analytical skills and creativity to ensure that communication strategies are tailored to diverse audiences, including UN agencies, government officials, and development partners. The consultant will also collaborate with graphic designers to enhance the visual appeal of reports, ensuring that they are not only informative but also engaging for the target audience. Overall, the consultant will contribute significantly to the visibility and understanding of SPORD's work, advocating for its initiatives and fostering stakeholder engagement.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a comprehensive set of tasks under the supervision of the Director of SPORD. Key responsibilities include: conducting in-depth research and meetings with SPORD team members and stakeholders to gather relevant materials for the annual report and quarterly bulletins; preparing and drafting the ECA Annual Report and SPORD Quarterly Bulletin, ensuring clarity and engagement in the content; collaborating with the graphic design team to incorporate visual elements into reports; undertaking communication outreach and advocacy efforts to promote SPORD's work; applying best practices in communication strategies to tailor materials for various audiences; writing and editing content to ensure precision and engagement; gathering inputs from SPORD staff, refining drafts, and finalizing documents for publication; identifying key stakeholders and customizing communication products to capture their interest; and potentially presenting findings or draft reports in workshops or meetings.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Communication, Journalism, Social Sciences, or a related field. A PhD degree is considered an advantage. Additionally, candidates should have at least 7 years of relevant work experience in international organizations, public service, or similar institutions. Superior writing, editing, and proofreading skills are essential, along with a keen eye for detail. Familiarity with the United Nations system and its operations is highly desirable, as is experience in working with regional organizations and partners.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree, specifically a Master’s degree or equivalent, in fields such as Communication, Journalism, or Social Sciences. A PhD degree is advantageous and may enhance the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 7 years of professional experience in relevant fields, particularly within international organizations or public service. This experience should demonstrate a strong background in communication, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement, as well as familiarity with the operational dynamics of the United Nations and regional organizations.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with very good writing and analytical skills. Knowledge of French is considered an added advantage, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate with a broader audience and engage with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to last for six months, and while specific details regarding compensation and benefits are not provided, it is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. This includes application, interview, and training stages, ensuring a transparent and fair recruitment process.