External Communication Officer

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.

The UN Volunteer assignment will focus on the production of external communication and media products, through writing, editing and graphic design (supervision) and support in external communication work. Linked to the country context, the office is currently managing the production of a large number of external products and needs support on this area. At the same time, major programmes requiring visibility products have also created a heavy workload for the office as UNICEF seeks to meet its donor requirements.

Within the delegated authority and under the direct supervision of the Chief of Communication or his/her designated mandated representative(s), the External Communication Officer will undertake the following tasks:

• Help manage the production of public facing external products through writing, editing and layout support, sometimes through management of external providers of these services; • Assist in the design and implementation of communication and visibility plans including design materials for print, social media and other needs; • Support the production of photo, video and human interest stories (HIS) content for major donor visibility; • Support the office’s advocacy efforts on issues such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the Transforming Education Summit, Ending Child Marriage and more; • Assist in editing/re-writing human interest stories, blogs, articles, speeches, concept notes, reports, proposals, etc. • Help in the development and implementation of campaigns. • Travel to programme implementation areas to collect media and communication content, create visibility and support media coverage of UNICEF Zambia's programmes; • Provide support to improved internal communication in the office. • Support donor communication activities, events and content production.

• Accountability • Adaptability and Flexibility • Client Orientation • Commitment and Motivation • Communication • Creativity • Empowering Others • Ethics and Values • Integrity • Knowledge Sharing • Professionalism • Respect for Diversity • Self-Management • Technological Awareness • Vision • Working in Teams

professional work at the national and/or international level. Experience working in the UN or other international development organisation is an added advantage;

• Technical skills and experience in journalism, web management, writing, graphic design, and public relations; • 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.), design software, video editing 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; Sound security awareness; • Have affinity with or interest in child rights, volunteerism as a mechanism for durable development, and the UN System.

Zambia is a landlocked, middle-income country with a population estimated at 18 million. Lusaka became the capital city of Zambia in May 1935. Lusaka’s central position in Zambia and its pleasant climate were two of the main reasons for its selection as the capital. It is a metropolis, which provides a home to about two and half million (2.5M) inhabitants of different nationalities. It has grown to become the seat of the Government of the Republic of Zambia and as such all diplomatic missions, international organizations, industrial and commercial entities are based there. Its political, social, economic and cultural significance has also increased through the years.

Public transport is provided by private operators using minibuses and taxis. The bus routes are not mapped and roads are often congested. Good modern housing for rent is available on the open market. The official language is English, which is widely spoken. The country is generally food secure, with sufficient local fresh fruits and vegetables available in the markets, as well as various dairy, poultry and meat products. There are several international schools using the Cambridge GCSE or IGCSE syllabi, from key stage one through to A levels. Health conditions are generally good, although malaria is endemic. Zambia is generally a safe place to live in.