Communications Officer

Organizational Context

This position is within the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Children and Armed Conflict (OSRSG-CAAC), mandated by UN General Assembly and Security Council resolutions. The Office works to protect children affected by armed conflict. The incumbent reports to the Senior Political Affairs Officer, contributing to the Office's global advocacy and protection efforts.

Job Purpose

The Communications Officer is responsible for planning, executing, monitoring, and evaluating communication strategies to promote the protection of children affected by armed conflict. This role aims to raise awareness of Children and Armed Conflict (CAAC) issues, foster international collaboration, and advance the rights and well-being of affected children. The officer will develop and implement advocacy and communication strategies in collaboration with UN partners and NGOs, manage the OSRSG's website, draft public information materials, advise on media engagement, and support the office's outreach initiatives to achieve advocacy objectives.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement advocacy and communications strategies in collaboration with UN/DGC, seeking synergies with UN partners and NGOs. Create a work plan, contribute to strategy implementation, and monitor its impact. Produce and edit website content for the Special Representative, ensuring it is focused and up-to-date, and oversee the website's maintenance as an interactive tool. Draft speeches, talking points, and public information materials aligned with the office's policy and advocacy goals. Manage the office's communications budget, including preparing terms of reference for and supervising technical resources and consultants. Advise on the effective use of communication tools, such as press briefings and media interviews, to achieve advocacy objectives. Support the office's overall outreach strategies.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of progressive experience in communications, public relations, or a related field is required. Experience in building networks for advocacy in multilateral settings, translating complex political/conflict matters into public communications, and public/media relations is essential. Experience with web technologies and new media strategies, in armed conflict or peacekeeping settings, and within the UN system or similar organizations is desirable.

Skills

Professionalism, Communication, Technological Awareness, knowledge of information integrity risks (misinformation, disinformation, hate speech), understanding of digital media platforms and trends, ability to analyze data, effective speaking and writing, active listening, adaptability to audience, information sharing, and learning new technology.

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