Communications Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
UNOPS (United Nations Office for Project Services) is a central resource of the United Nations that supports partners in building a better future by providing services that enhance the efficiency, effectiveness, and sustainability of peacebuilding, humanitarian, and development projects. Established to serve the UN's mission, UNOPS operates in approximately 125 countries, offering sustainable project management, procurement, and infrastructure services to a diverse range of governments, donors, and UN organizations. The New York Portfolio Office (NYPO) specifically supports the UN Secretariat and other New York-based UN organizations, facilitating the delivery of UNOPS's mandate in project management, infrastructure management, and procurement management. The Sustainable Development Cluster (SDC) within UNOPS combines various portfolios to support partners with peacebuilding, humanitarian, and development operations, ensuring that programs are designed and managed with a global perspective.

Job Overview:
The Communications Specialist will play a crucial role in supporting the Spokesperson and communication team by developing, writing, and preparing written materials for delivery by the High Representative and senior management. This position involves managing both external and internal communications, ensuring effective messaging between senior management and a wide range of audiences, including the media. The specialist will engage in tactical communications, such as crafting social media posts, news items, letters, and informational updates, all aimed at building a strong, principled brand. The role requires collaboration with various UN departments, funds, and agencies to implement system-wide campaigns and incorporate campaign messages into relevant events and products. The incumbent will also participate in the development and implementation of communication activities, identify issues, propose corrective actions, and conduct research to support the drafting of speeches and statements for senior officials. The position demands a proactive approach to enhancing visibility and advocacy for UNAOC's policies and initiatives, including maintaining a media database and writing articles for high-profile media outlets.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Communications Specialist will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: supporting the Spokesperson and communication team in developing and preparing written materials; managing day-to-day communications, including social media and news items; collaborating with UN departments to implement campaigns; drafting speeches, statements, and talking points for senior management; preparing minutes and coordinating media encounters; enhancing visibility for UNAOC initiatives; writing press releases, newsletters, and web content; overseeing the production of reports and multimedia products; proofreading and reviewing UNAOC publications; and performing other related duties as required. The specialist will also monitor and analyze media coverage related to UNAOC activities and identify opportunities for engagement.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in journalism, communications, public information, business administration, management, social sciences, political science, or a related field, along with five years of relevant experience. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor's degree) with seven years of relevant experience is acceptable. Relevant experience is defined as professional experience at the international level in program management, policy support, journalism, communication, or public information. Candidates must demonstrate experience in writing speeches for senior officials under tight deadlines, managing social media, and communicating with the media. Desirable experience includes familiarity with the United Nations system or similar international organizations and experience in developing communication projects and plans.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include either an advanced university degree (Master's degree) in a relevant field with five years of experience or a first-level university degree (Bachelor's degree) with seven years of experience. The fields of study should preferably include journalism, communications, public information, business administration, management, social sciences, political science, or related disciplines that align with the job description.

Experience:
Candidates are expected to have a minimum of five years of relevant experience if holding a Master's degree, or seven years if holding a Bachelor's degree. This experience should be at the international level and encompass program management, policy support, journalism, communication, or public information. Specific experience in writing speeches for high-level officials, managing social media, and engaging with the media is required. Additional desirable experience includes working within the UN system or similar international organizations and developing communication projects and plans.

Languages:
Fluency in English (reading, writing, and speaking) is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of additional languages is considered an advantage and may enhance a candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
The contract type for this position is an Individual Contractor Agreement (ICA), specifically at the International Individual Contractor Agreement (I-ICA 2 / ICSC10) level. The contract duration is ongoing, subject to good performance, availability of funds, and organizational requirements. UNOPS emphasizes diversity and encourages qualified women and candidates from underrepresented groups to apply. The organization is committed to equal employment opportunities and aims to create an inclusive working environment. Candidates should be aware that UNOPS conducts background checks on all potential personnel, and recruitment is contingent on the results of these checks. Additionally, candidates may need to complete mandatory courses before providing services to UNOPS.