Communication Specialist

Contract

This is a UNV International Specialist contract. This kind of contract is known as International UN Volunteer. It is normally internationally recruited only. More about UNV International Specialist contracts.

UNICEF Lao PDR works to promote and protect the rights and well-being of children and adolescents in the country. The UNV Communication Specialist, with a focus on content management and generation, will play a crucial role in raising awareness, generating public support, and promoting the understanding of UNICEF's work and objectives in Lao PDR through compelling storytelling and multimedia content. The UNV Communication Specialist will also take a key role in programme and office campaigns such as improving health and nutrition outcome activities and UNICEF Laos at 50 celebrations.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Content Development and Management: • Research, write, and edit high-quality communication materials, including articles, blogs, reports, human interest stories, and social media content. • Develop multimedia content, such as photos, videos, and infographics, to showcase UNICEF's work and impact in Lao PDR. • Manage and maintain UNICEF Lao PDR's digital assets, ensuring that all content is up-to-date, accurate, and accessible.
2. Social Media Strategy and Implementation: • Develop and implement a comprehensive social media strategy to increase the visibility and understanding of UNICEF's work in Lao PDR. • Create engaging and shareable content tailored for various social media platforms, such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. • Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of social media activities through regular reporting, adjusting the strategy as needed.
3. Information Management and Coordination: • Collect, manage, and disseminate relevant information on UNICEF's programs and activities in Lao PDR. • Coordinate with relevant colleagues to gather and produce content that showcases UNICEF's work and impact. • Collaborate with other UN agencies, NGOs, and partners to develop joint communication initiatives and materials.
4. Campaign development, support and donor visibility and reporting: • Help ensure campaigns are planned and delivered in a timely manner • Monitor and report on donor-related projects, including Improving Health and Nutrition Outcomes activities • Ensure donors such as USAID and other have strong visibility for relevant programme work • Monitor donor reporting timelines to ensure data is delivered in a timely manner
5. Capacity Building and Training: • Provide content management and generation training to UNICEF Lao PDR staff to enhance their storytelling and multimedia skills. • Support the development of guidelines and best practices for content creation, management, and dissemination. • Participate in relevant coordination meetings and working groups within UNICEF and the wider UN system.

• Accountability • Adaptability and flexibility • Creativity • Judgement and decision-making • Planning and organising • Professionalism • Self-management • Demonstrates Self Awareness and Ethical Awareness • Works Collaboratively with others • Builds and Maintains Partnerships • Innovates and Embraces Change • Thinks and Acts Strategically • Drive to achieve impactful results • Manages ambiguity and complexity

content management, content creation, and social media management; • Excellent written and oral communication skills in English; knowledge of Lao language is an asset; • Strong storytelling skills and the ability to produce engaging multimedia content; • Proficiency in using digital and social media platforms for communication purposes; • Experience working with international organizations, especially in a development context, is a plus; • Excellent oral and written skills; excellent drafting, formulation, reporting skills; • Accuracy and professionalism in document production and editing; • Excellent interpersonal skills; culturally and socially sensitive; ability to work inclusively and collaboratively with a range of partners, including grassroots community members, religious and youth organizations, and authorities at different levels; familiarity with tools and approaches of communications for development; • Ability to work and adapt professionally and effectively in a challenging environment; ability to work effectively in a multicultural team of international and national personnel; • Solid overall computer literacy, including proficiency in various Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, among others), email, and internet; familiarity with database management; and office technology equipment; • Self-motivated, ability to work with minimum supervision; ability to work with tight deadlines; • Sound security awareness; • Have affinity with or interest in child rights, volunteerism as a mechanism for durable development, and the UN system.

Vientiane, the vibrant capital of Lao PDR, offers a unique and enriching experience for internationals seeking employment opportunities. As an emerging city with a blend of traditional and modern influences, it boasts a relatively low cost of living compared to other capital cities in the region. Visitors can expect comfortable housing options in expatriate-friendly neighborhoods, with access to a variety of dining and entertainment venues. While public transportation is still developing, navigating the city is manageable with private vehicles or affordable taxi services. However, potential applicants should be prepared for occasional challenges such as language barriers, limited access to specialized healthcare, and occasional power outages. Overall, Vientiane offers a distinctive and rewarding experience for those interested in working in an emerging, culturally rich setting.