Communications Expert Sustainable Buildings and Construction

Support the implementation of the GlobalABC communications strategy and enhance visibility of initiatives.

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UNEP - United Nations Environment Programme

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Application deadline 1 year ago: Tuesday 24 Jun 2025 at 03:59 UTC

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Overview

Support the implementation of the GlobalABC communications strategy and enhance visibility of initiatives.

You have:

  • Advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in communication, journalism, or related field.
  • A first level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.
  • Training and/or experience in social media content development is required.
  • At least 5 years of experience in the field of communication including social media or related field.
  • Experience of working with international organizations is an asset.
  • Fluency in French is desirable.
  • Knowledge of visual design tools and video editing software is an asset, supporting the creation of multimedia content that enhances visibility and outreach.

Contract

This is a Consultancy contract. More about Consultancy contracts.

Result of Service

The consultant will support achieving the following objectives: 1) Implement and refine the GlobalABC communications strategy. Expected Output: Effective implementation of the existing communications strategy, including the integration of innovative, creative content ideas and approaches to enhance visibility and outreach across platforms. 2) Enhance the visibility and awareness of GlobalABC’s initiatives, including COP Pavilion, ICBC and the Buildings Breakthrough.Expected Output: Development and dissemination of targeted communication materials—including articles, social media content, campaign messages, and promotional assets—that showcase GlobalABC’s work and impact. 3) Strengthen coordination and engagement with GlobalABC membership. Expected Output: Enhanced coordination of GlobalABC’s member network through regular communication, updates, and administrative support, including the maintenance of an accurate and up-to-date database of focal points.

Work Location

Remote

Expected duration

6 months

Duties and Responsibilities

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) recognizes the need to address global environmental concerns in an increasingly urbanizing world. It is in this context that UN Environment supports and promotes sustainability in buildings and construction, emphasizing sustainable buildings' local and global benefits and the role of the built environment in delivering against the New Urban Agenda and the 2030 Agenda with its 17 Sustainable Development Goals. The building and construction sector is responsible for over one-third of all energy-related GHG emissions and material use. Founded at COP21, hosted by the United Nations Environment Programme and with over 365 members, including 69 countries, the Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction (GlobalABC) is the leading global platform for all buildings stakeholders committed to a common vision: A zero-emission, efficient and resilient buildings and construction sector. Communicating key insights, messages, and best practices online and offline is essential to those initiatives. A consultant with expertise in communication including website content management, story writing, and social media and with excellent communications and writing skills is needed to support the UNEP Buildings team in the development of these efforts. The consultant will support the effective implementation of the GlobalABC communications strategy and contribute to strengthening the visibility and impact of GlobalABC’s initiatives and partnerships. This includes coordinating the Communications Task Force, managing content across platforms (website, social media, publications), supporting stakeholder engagement and member coordination, and developing tailored communication materials for flagship events and outcomes, and country-level projects. The consultant will also contribute to the continuous improvement of communication tools and outreach activities, ensuring alignment with GlobalABC’s mission and increased visibility among target audiences.

Qualifications/special skills

Advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in communication, journalism, or related field. A first level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree. Training and/or experience in social media content development is required. Specialization in a field related to environment and/or sustainable buildings and construction is a plus. Training in videography and design is a plus. At least 5 years of experience in the field of communication including social media or related field; Experience of working with international organizations is an asset; Experience with sustainable buildings and construction initiatives is an asset. Specific knowledge: Demonstrates strong communication skills, both written and visual, with a strong and keen eye for detail and an ability to translate complex concepts into accessible and compelling narratives. Experienced in highlighting successful flagship initiatives and impactful projects through engaging storytelling and content development. Proficient in crafting strategic messages for diverse audiences across platforms, including social media, internal reports, and public-facing materials. Skilled in developing creative content, including articles, human-interest stories, and campaign messaging. Knowledge of visual design tools and video editing software is an asset, supporting the creation of multimedia content that enhances visibility and outreach. Professionalism: Demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; shows persistence and flexibility when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. Communication: Speaks and writes clearly, concisely and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify perceptions, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience; demonstrates proactivity and openness in sharing information and keeping people informed. Planning & Organizing: Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required; allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; uses time efficiently. Considers outputs achieved according to effectively delivery, as opposed to the amount of time given to tasks. Teamwork: Works collaboratively with colleagues across institutions to achieve organizational and strategic goals; is willing to learn from others; Places team agenda before personal agenda; Supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position.

Languages

Excellent English skills, with proven creative writing skills. Fluency in French is desirable. Knowledge of other UN languages is an asset.

Additional Information

Not available.

No Fee

THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.

Potential interview questions

Can you give an example of how you effectively implemented a communications strategy? This question assesses your practical experience in executing communication plans and strategies. Provide a specific example that highlights your role and the outcomes achieved.
Describe your experience with developing content for social media platforms. The interviewer wants to understand your technical skills and creativity in social media content. Pro members can see the explanation.
How do you tailor communication strategies for different audiences? Pro members can see the explanation. Pro members can see the explanation.
What methods do you use for engaging stakeholders in a project? Pro members can see the explanation. Pro members can see the explanation.
Can you provide an example of a complex concept you simplified for a broad audience? Pro members can see the explanation. Pro members can see the explanation.
How do you remain organized when managing multiple communications tasks? Pro members can see the explanation. Pro members can see the explanation.
Share a challenging problem you faced in your communications role and how you overcame it. Pro members can see the explanation. Pro members can see the explanation.
What tools have you used for visual communication and content development? Pro members can see the explanation. Pro members can see the explanation.
Added 1 year ago - Updated 1 year ago - Source: careers.un.org