PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER

Organizational Context

This position is within the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General, part of the UN Secretariat's Executive Office. The office informs the media about UN activities, advises senior officials on media relations, and monitors global news. It operates under the Secretary-General's guidance to align the UN system with his vision and priorities, upholding high standards of efficiency and integrity.

Job Purpose

The Public Information Officer, reporting to the Spokesperson, is responsible for in-depth daily coverage of a specific global region or thematic issue relevant to the UN's work. This includes monitoring political, social, economic, and humanitarian developments, acting as a focal point for specific issues, and responding to media inquiries. The role involves identifying breaking news affecting the Organization, contributing to internal alerts and daily headlines for senior UN leadership, and drafting materials for press briefings and planning tools for journalists. The incumbent will also manage media relations for specific areas, advise on media engagement, and prepare senior officials for press encounters, potentially traveling with the Secretary-General.

Responsibilities

The Public Information Officer is responsible for comprehensive daily coverage of assigned global regions or thematic issues, monitoring and reporting on relevant political, social, economic, and humanitarian developments. This includes serving as a focal point for specific topics and responding to media inquiries. The role involves monitoring breaking news, selecting stories for internal alerts distributed to senior UN officials, and drafting content for daily press briefings and the 'Week Ahead' planning tool. Additionally, the incumbent will establish and maintain contacts with UN departments and agencies to gather information, advise on media interactions, follow Security Council deliberations related to their area, conduct interviews in English and other languages as needed, and prepare responses for potential press encounters by the Secretary-General. The role also requires availability for travel with the Secretary-General and participation in the late duty officer roster.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of progressive experience in public information, journalism, or media relations at the national or international level is required. Experience in a news environment (wire service, newspaper) is essential. Experience with press relations, international organizations, UN communications, political analysis, and social media content generation is desirable.

Skills

Professionalism, communication (written and oral), client orientation, ability to analyze and integrate information, identify public affairs issues, handle sensitive situations, produce written products, deliver oral presentations, and maintain professional competence under pressure. Fluency in English is required; French and Spanish are desirable.

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