Communications Officer, New York City

Org. Setting and ReportingThis position is located in the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Children and Armed Conflict (OSRSG-CAAC). The mandate and work of the Office derives from General Assembly Resolution 51/77 and subsequent General Assembly resolutions, as well as successive Security Council resolutions on children and armed conflict. The incumbent will report to the Senior Political Affairs Officer. ResponsibilitiesUnder the direct supervision of the Senior Political Affairs Officer and in close collaboration with the Under-Secretary-General (USG) CAAC, the incumbent is responsible for the planning, execution, monitoring and evaluation of communications strategies designed to promote the protection of children affected by armed conflict. The communication strategy will aim to build awareness of CAAC issues, foster international networking, and collaborative action for the protection, rights and well-being of children affected by armed conflict in line with the mandate and objectives of the OSRSG-CAAC. The Communications Officer will be responsible for the following duties: - In close collaboration with UN/DGC develop an advocacy and communications strategy for the Office. This strategy should seek to forge synergies and partnerships with the communications offices of other UN partners and NGO's working on related issues. - Develop a work plan and contribute to implementation of the strategy and monitor and appraise impact. - In consultation with other members of the Office, produce and edit the content of the website of the Special Representative to ensure that it contains focused, specific and up-to-date material. Oversee maintenance of the OSRSG's website as a key interactive communication tool. - Draft speeches, talking points, and prepare public information material in line with policy and advocacy objectives of the office. - Plan and monitor the use of office communications budget and within limited budget possibilities, prepare terms of reference for and supervise technical resources and consultants, as necessary for the above activities. - Advise the USG/CAAC on the effective use of communication tools, including press briefings, conferences and media interviews to achieve advocacy objectives. - Support outreach strategies of the office. CompetenciesPROFESSIONALISM: Knowledge of risks to information integrity - misinformation, disinformation, hate speech, and threats in fragile, post conflict, and crisis environments. Knowledge of current and emerging digital media platforms, their principles and technologies and knowledge of media landscape and trends. Demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter. Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work. Able to analyze and interpret data in support of decision-making and convey resulting information to management. COMMUNICATION: Speaks and writes clearly and effectively. Listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately. Asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication. Tailors language, tone, style and format to match the audience. Demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed. TECHNOLOGICAL AWARENESS: Keeps abreast of available technology. Understands applicability and limitations of technology to the work of the office. Actively seeks to apply technology to appropriate tasks. Shows willingness to learn new technology. EducationAn advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in communications, journalism, public relations or related fields is required. A first-level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced university degree. Job - Specific QualificationNot available. Work ExperienceA minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in communications, public relations, or related area is required. Experience in building and managing networks to advance advocacy goals in multilateral settings is required. Experience in the translation of complex political or conflict-related subject matters into public communications is required. Experience in public and media relations is required. Experience with web-based communication technology and new media strategies is desirable. Experience in armed conflict or peace-keeping settings is desirable. Experience within the United Nations system, international or multilateral organizations including support to intergovernmental bodies and familiarity with policymaking processes and formal resolutions or mandates is desirable. LanguagesEnglish and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this job opening, English is required. French is desirable. The table below shows the minimum required level for each skill in these languages, according to the UN Language Framework (please consult for details).