Speech Writer

Result of Service Under the supervision of the Information Officer, the Consultant will undertake the following tasks in the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD):

(a) Write and edit a wide range of materials for the Executive Secretary including speeches, statements for UN International Days, op-ed articles and press releases on issues that cover the full spectrum of the work of the Convention on Biological Diversity.

(b) Liaise closely with other divisions, to ensure timely and relevant inputs into development of written communication for the Executive Secretary, and in other matters of relevance of the Office of the Executive Secretary.

(c) Review and edit draft texts to ensure accuracy, clarity, and effectiveness.

Work Location Remote - Home-based

Expected duration Eight (8) months.

Duties and Responsibilities Organizational setting

The United Nations Environment Programme is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. At the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, world leaders agreed on a comprehensive strategy for 'sustainable development'. The Convention on Biological Diversity was opened for signature in Rio in 1992. The Convention has three main objectives: the conservation of biological diversity, the sustainable use of its components, and the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising from the use of genetic resources. The Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (SCBD) is located in Montreal and is administered by United Nations Environment Programme. Its main tasks are to arrange for and service meetings of the Conference of the Parties, including preparation of pertinent documentation, operation of the central node of the clearing-house mechanism, liaison and coordination with other international bodies and processes and, in close collaboration with these partners, the provision of technical support for the effective implementation of the Convention.

The Consultant will work under the supervision of the Information Officer, Communication and Awareness Unit, Office of the Executive Secretary.

The Consultant will assist in the following:

(a) Draft speeches, statements, briefings, and written communication for the Executive Secretary ensuring high level of consistency, accuracy, and adapting content and presentation for a wide variety of audiences.

(b) Research, compile and summarize background materials for use in statements, messages, and articles.

(c) Research audience expectations, event agenda and topics, and assist in focusing the purpose of each speech, statement or press release to tailor messages for audience appeal and impact.

(d) Extract key messages from speeches/presentations/articles for dissemination through social media channels, in close collaboration with the Communication and Awareness Unit.

(e) Liaise closely with other divisions, to ensure timely and relevant inputs into development of written communication for the Executive Secretary, and in other matters of relevance of the Office of the Executive Secretary.

(f) Perform any other duties as required.

Qualifications/special skills Competencies

Professionalism: Ability to understand complex issues pertaining to biodiversity; ability to work under pressure and to use limited time and resources effectively; flexibility to adapt rapidly to changing situations; ability to ensure that the highest possible quality outputs are produced.

Communication: Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify an exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.

Teamwork: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; 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; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.

Planning and Organizing: Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required; allocates appropriate amount of time for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; uses time efficiently.

Skills: Excellent computer skills are required, including the following: Microsoft Office.

Academic Qualifications: A first-level university degree is required in communications, journalism, political science, or a related field of study.

Experience: Three (3) years of experience related to speech writing/ editing and proof reading is required; Ability to translate complex and technical messages into plain language for audience appeal and impact is required; Demonstrated track record of performing excellently under pressure and adhering to strict deadlines while maintaining a sophisticated understanding of organizational and external contexts is desirable. Familiar with issues related to the Convention on Biological diversity, the UN system and other international sustainable development-related processes is desirable.

Languages: English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For the post advertised, fluency in oral and written English is required. Knowledge of another official United Nations language is desirable.

Additional Information TRAVEL

Travel may be required depending on the assigned tasks. The Secretariat will cover the travel costs as per the UN Travel policy. However, due to the COVID-19, travel is currently restricted.

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.