Communications 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.

Under the guidance and direct supervision of the RR, the Communications Specialist in a medium size office implements the corporate communications and publication strategy as well as provides inputs to design, manage and implement the Country Office communications and publication strategies which are geared to influence the development agenda, promote public and media outreach and mobilize political and financial support for UNDP. A communication’s strategy tightly linked to program priorities helps position the Country Office in key development markets as a leader in ways that boosts demand for various service lines and increase overall business opportunities.

Within the delegated authority and under the supervision of Resident Representative or his/her designated mandated representative(s), the UN Volunteer will:

1. Ensure planning and design of internal and external strategies for communication and outreach focusing on achievement of the following results:

- Preparation and conduct of communication needs assessments for the CO (Projects, country programme and cooprorate change initiatives etc.) - Drafting/editing of CO communications and outreach strategy based on the corporate communications strategy. - Analyse requirements and synthesis of proposals on ways to integrate advocacy and communication strategies into all aspects of UNDPs development programme during programme formulations.

2. Ensure Implementation of the CO publications strategy and plan focusing on the achievement of the following results:

- Implementation of the CO publications strategy and plan based o the corporate publications policy. - Identification of storylines for publications and drafting of substantive articles contributing to debates on key development issues. - Coordination and management of CO publication activities such as content management, norms for publishing, design etc. - Contact with printers and other suppliers to ensure production and ensure publication dissemination.

3. Supervision of the design and maintenance of the UNDP’S website, intranet, CO web-based knowledge management system focusing on achievement of the following results:

- Supervision of the design and maintenance of the office web sites based on corporate requirements in cooperation with the ICT staff. - Preparation of the content for the websites to ensure consistency of the materials.

4. Support the business development focusing on achievement of the following results: Launches and campaigns

- Promotion and maintenance of public information campaigns on UNDP activities, UN Reform. Results of MDGs in association with others. - Promotion and dissemination of corporate advocacy materials for launching flagship initiatives and publications such as the Human Development Report. - Packaging and submission of programme initiatives for donor review in collaboration with programme staff and supervisor. Outreach - Maintenance of increased coverage and understanding of UNDP’s work in the country or practice area through regular media contacts and provision of newsworthy information to national public and where possible donors. - Organization of roundtable discussions, press conferences, briefing sessions, interviews, launches etc. - Forging of a “one UN “image through publicizing the significance of local UN reform efforts, joint programmes, common services. - Organization and implementation of joint UN information campaigns (UN Day, World Aids Day, IVD etc) - Ensure access for journalists to subject matter experts. - Drafting/production of regular newsletter to donors. - Preparation of donor reports. Civil education and community awareness where appropriate to support projects. Public Information - Effective responses to inquiries for public information materials.

5. Ensure facilitation of knowledge building and management focusing on achieving of the following results:

- Identification and synthesis of best practices and lessons learnt directly linked to programme country goals and activities. - Sound contributions to knowledge networks and communities of practice including corporate communications. -Provision of training, consultancy and advice to UNDP staff on communication for development.

Professionalism: demonstrated understanding of operations relevant to UNDP; technical capabilities or knowledge relevant or transferrable to UNDP procedures and rules; discretion, political sensitivity, diplomacy and tact to deal with clients; ability to apply good judgement; ability to liaise and coordinate with a range of different actors, especially in senior positions; where appropriate, high degree of autonomy, personal initiative and ability to take ownership; resourcefulness and willingness to accept wide responsibilities and ability to work independently under established procedures; ability to manage information objectively, accurately and confidentially; responsive and client-oriented; - Integrity: demonstrate the values and ethical standards of the UN and UNDP in daily activities and behaviours while acting without consideration of personal gains; resist undue political pressure in decision-making; stand by decisions that are in the organization’s interest even if they are unpopular; take prompt action in cases of unprofessional or unethical behaviour; does not abuse power or authority; - Teamwork and respect for diversity: ability to operate effectively across organizational boundaries; excellent interpersonal skills; ability to establish and maintain effective partnerships and harmonious working relations in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic, mixed-gender environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity; sensitivity and adaptability to culture, gender, religion, nationality and age; commitment to implementing the goal of gender equality by ensuring the equal participation and full involvement of women and men in all aspects of UN operations; ability to achieve common goals and provide guidance or training to colleagues; - Commitment to continuous learning: initiative and willingness to learn new skills and stay abreast of new developments in area of expertise; ability to adapt to changes in work environment. - Planning and organizing: effective organizational and problem-solving skills and ability to manage a large volume of work in an efficient and timely manner; ability to establish priorities and to plan, coordinate and monitor (own) work; ability to work under pressure, with conflicting deadlines, and to handle multiple concurrent projects/activities; - Communication: proven interpersonal skills; good spoken and written communication skills, including ability to prepare clear and concise reports; ability to conduct presentations, articulate options and positions concisely; ability to make and defend recommendations; ability to communicate and empathize with staff (including national staff), military personnel, volunteers, counterparts and local interlocutors coming from very diverse backgrounds; capacity to transfer information and knowledge to a wide range of different target groups; - Flexibility: adaptability and ability to live and work in potentially hazardous and remote conditions, involving physical hardship and little comfort; to operate independently in austere environments for protracted periods; willingness to travel within the area of operations and to transfer to other duty stations within the area of operations as necessary; - Genuine commitment towards the principles of voluntary engagement, which includes solidarity, compassion, reciprocity and self-reliance; and commitment towards UNDP’s mission and vision, as well as to the UN Core Values.

media relations, journalism publishing revious experience with a multilateral or International organization.

Computers and office software packages, good knowledge and experience in handling of web-based management systems. 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 MS Office applications (Excel, Word, etc.) and email/internet; familiarity with database management; and office technology equipment; Self-motivated, ability to work with minimum supervision; ability to work with tight deadlines; Desirable: valid national driver’s license and proven ability to drive manual gear 4x4 over rough terrain; (if not applicable, delete) Sound security awareness; Have affinity with or interest in Communications volunteerism as a mechanism for durable development, and the UN System

Sierra Leone is a unique country and UNDP is a unique (humanitarian) operation. It provides for an interesting and enriching environment, but also requires a mature level of cultural awareness, as well as more stamina and commitment than elsewhere to make life comfortable and affordable. Therefore, flexibility and the ability and willingness to live and work in harsh and potentially hazardous conditions, involving physical hardship and little comfort, are essential.