Public Information Officer (Public Information and External Relations)

Organizational Context

The United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute (UNICRI) seeks a Public Information Officer to report to the Director. This role is crucial for managing UNICRI's external communications and public relations efforts, aligning with the institute's priorities and global outreach objectives.

Job Purpose

The Public Information Officer is responsible for coordinating and guiding the Institute's strategic communications, including press releases, institutional documents, and media relations. This role involves planning and overseeing a wide range of departmental activities, managing the UNICRI website and social media presence, and ensuring effective communication of the Institute's vision and achievements to global audiences. The officer will also advise senior management on reputational matters, support fundraising efforts, and contribute to the conceptualization and implementation of new initiatives focused on knowledge sharing and awareness-raising.

Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include coordinating the research, writing, and editing of strategic communications products in English and Italian. The role involves planning and providing strategic oversight for departmental activities, including conferences, programmatic documents, media relations, and web/social media content management. The officer will ensure editorial authority over the UNICRI website, review and approve publications, and drive the expansion of social media presence. Additionally, responsibilities include advising senior management on reputational and policy matters, analyzing data for insights, providing media guidance, delivering high-level briefings, and establishing partnerships. The role also entails expanding relationships with donors for project funding, supporting new initiatives, designing visibility programs, and supervising public information staff.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of progressive professional experience in public information, external relations, or fundraising is required. Experience in developing communication materials, editing/coordinating publications, and managing social media/content management systems is essential. Experience within the UN system or similar international organizations, in crime prevention/criminal justice, or data analysis is desirable.

Skills

Professionalism, Client Orientation, Communication (excellent writing, editing, public speaking), Judgement/Decision-making, Problem-solving, Data analysis and interpretation, Media relations, Social media management, Partnership development, Fundraising support, Team supervision.

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