Communications and Programme Support Specialist

Organizational Context

UN-Habitat's Canada Office, based in Montreal, serves as a focal point for partnerships, research, and policy engagement in North America. It implements UN-Habitat’s 2026-2029 Strategic Plan, focusing on adequate housing, sustainable urban development, and climate resilience. The office emphasizes knowledge and innovation to accelerate housing solutions and contributes to global intergovernmental dialogue on housing.

Job Purpose

This role supports the UN-Habitat Canada Office by enhancing its visibility, strategic positioning, and programme delivery through effective communication and operational support. The position ensures timely, high-quality assistance for programme implementation, aligning with UN-Habitat's priorities on adequate housing, sustainable urban development, and climate resilience. The specialist will contribute to strengthening the office's role as a platform for dialogue and knowledge exchange, particularly concerning the New Urban Agenda and the right to adequate housing, by supporting research, policy engagement, and partnership-building efforts within Canada and North America.

Responsibilities

Provide general office support, including event preparation, participation, and follow-up. Offer technical, administrative, and management support to ensure projects meet deadlines and quality standards. Prepare and submit monthly activity reports detailing completed tasks. Support human resources and recruitment activities, such as drafting terms of reference and candidate outreach. Develop and execute the office's communications strategy in coordination with leadership and headquarters, enhancing strategic positioning. Lead and support advocacy and awareness-raising efforts for key global urban development moments. Prepare communication materials, manuals, and pamphlets. Assist in translating documents and key communication materials. Strengthen communications outreach to Canadian stakeholders, amplifying contributions to global urban agendas. Support the preparation of research products and policy briefs, developing innovative communication formats. Provide logistical and translation support for major global events and intergovernmental working groups.

Work Experience

A minimum of two years of experience in communication, programme, and management support activities is required. Experience within the international development sector or with international organizations is preferred. Familiarity with the UN Common System is desirable.

Skills

Communication strategy development and execution, advocacy and awareness-raising, event planning and support, administrative and management support, human resources and recruitment support, content creation and translation, stakeholder engagement, research support, knowledge management, proficiency in English and French.

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