Communications Specialist - Level B

Organizational Context

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) hosts the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES), an independent intergovernmental body with over 150 member governments. IPBES aims to strengthen the science-policy interface on biodiversity and ecosystem services. This role supports the IPBES Head of Communication in executing the organization's communication strategy.

Job Purpose

This role provides essential support to the Head of Communication at IPBES, contributing to the effective implementation of the organization's communication strategy. The purpose is to enhance IPBES's outreach and engagement by managing media relations, developing communication materials, and supporting online and stakeholder communication efforts. The position plays a key part in ensuring that IPBES's scientific findings and policy recommendations are effectively communicated to governments and stakeholders, thereby strengthening the science-policy interface on biodiversity and ecosystem services. The role is crucial for maintaining the visibility and impact of IPBES's work globally.

Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include managing and expanding the IPBES media contacts database, serving as the primary contact for communications and outreach queries, and acting as a secondary contact for stakeholder engagement via email and website. The role involves liaising with traditional media consultants, monitoring media performance, and drafting, proofreading, and editing content for various communication materials like brochures, posters, infographics, and videos. This includes coordinating with designers, translation services, and vendors for material procurement and overseeing the shipping of outreach materials for global events. Additionally, the role supports social media content identification, website content management, digital asset platform maintenance, and video editing/subtitling. Stakeholder engagement support involves identifying relevant content for sharing and updating databases, alongside general day-to-day communication tasks such as research and drafting messages.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in public information, journalism, public relations, or marketing is required. Experience with media monitoring tools is essential. Prior experience with IPBES communications or within the United Nations context is desirable, as is experience in design, layout, and editing.

Skills

Excellent written and oral English communication skills. Experience with media monitoring tools. Knowledge of international biodiversity science-policy issues. Experience in content creation, editing, and proofreading. Familiarity with website content management and social media. Vendor coordination and procurement support. Video editing and subtitling capabilities. Stakeholder engagement support.

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