ASSOCIATE PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER

Organizational Context

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) hosts the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) secretariat in Bonn, Germany. IPBES, established in 2012, comprises over 150 governments and aims to strengthen the science-policy interface on biodiversity and ecosystem services. This role supports the IPBES secretariat's communication efforts.

Job Purpose

The Associate Public Information Officer will support the IPBES secretariat in its communication activities. This involves tracking and analyzing information on relevant topics, assessing news value, and evaluating campaign effectiveness. The role contributes to developing and distributing media communication products, including press releases, reports, and digital content. Additionally, the position involves maintaining media contact databases, drafting articles, identifying communication opportunities, fostering strategic partnerships, and organizing communication events. The officer will also respond to inquiries and contribute to data analysis for planning and reporting, ensuring effective dissemination of information to target audiences and stakeholders.

Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include tracking, researching, and analyzing information on assigned topics, assessing news value, and evaluating communication campaign effectiveness. The role involves developing and drafting media communication products such as press briefings, releases, reports, brochures, and video clips, ensuring their distribution and monitoring media coverage. Responsibilities also encompass organizing the production and distribution of information materials, conducting photo and graphic research, and maintaining digital information assets. The officer will manage and expand a global database of media contacts, prepare draft articles for various publications, and identify strategic communication opportunities and partnerships. Furthermore, the role involves organizing and participating in events like conferences and press briefings, preparing briefing materials, responding to inquiries, and contributing to data analysis for planning and reporting.

Work Experience

A minimum of two years of progressive experience in public information, public relations, or external communications, preferably within the UN or a similar international organization, is required. One year of experience in building and maintaining global media relations is also required. Experience in communicating biodiversity science and policy to non-specialist media, operational social media experience within an international organization, and familiarity with IPBES are desirable.

Skills

Professionalism in planning and executing communication campaigns, media relations, and impact evaluation. Strong communication skills for clear and effective speaking and writing. Client orientation for building and maintaining productive partnerships. Ability to research and analyze issues, draft written products accurately and engagingly, and interact effectively with media and the public.

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