Individual Contractor to support Public Awareness and Outreach

Organizational Context

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) coordinates global environmental issues. The Secretariat of the Basel, Rotterdam, and Stockholm Conventions (BRS) unites three agreements on hazardous chemicals and waste. This role supports the BRS Secretariat's communication efforts leading up to the 2027 Conferences of the Parties (COPs) in Geneva.

Job Purpose

This role is crucial for developing and implementing comprehensive communication and information strategies to publicize priority issues, major events, and programme initiatives for the BRS Secretariat, particularly in preparation for the 2027 Conferences of the Parties (COPs). The contractor will enhance media coverage, produce diverse communication materials, and coordinate exhibitions and events. The purpose is to effectively engage with media, key stakeholders, and the public, ensuring alignment with UNEP's mandate and the BRS Conventions' objectives. This involves monitoring public opinion and press coverage, advising on responses, and analyzing the impact of communication activities to support the global consensus on environmental issues related to hazardous chemicals and waste.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement information programs and strategies to publicize BRS Secretariat activities and priority issues leading up to the 2027 COPs. Monitor and analyze current events, public opinion, and press coverage, advising management on appropriate responses. Promote and coordinate media coverage, including press conferences, interviews, and special events, and conduct proactive media outreach. Arrange and participate in press conferences, disseminate materials, and analyze coverage impact. Oversee media representative registration for BRS Secretariat meetings. Produce various communication products such as press kits, releases, speeches, brochures, fact sheets, newsletters, audio-visual materials, and social media content. Plan and coordinate exhibitions during the COPs and other parallel events. Liaise with BRS Conventions Advocates for their participation in relevant activities. Identify and utilize emerging digital trends and tools for enhanced storytelling. Collaborate with BRS Secretariat teams to ensure cohesive messaging and branding.

Work Experience

A minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in communications, marketing, or journalism within the UN or similar international organizations is required. Experience in developing communication strategies and delivering outreach campaigns is essential. Familiarity with CMS, social media tools, and design software is required. Experience with multilateral environmental agreements and chemicals management is desirable.

Skills

Communication strategy development and implementation, Media relations and outreach, Content creation (press kits, releases, speeches, brochures, social media), Event coordination, Public awareness campaigns, Digital media campaigns, Multimedia content production (graphics, video, infographics), Content Management Systems (CMS), Social media scheduling tools, Design software (Adobe Creative Suite, Canva), Monitoring and analysis of media coverage and public opinion, Collaboration and teamwork.

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