Associate Communications Officer
Organizational Context
The UN Resident Coordinator Offices (UN RCO) are integral to the UN's global reform, supporting countries in achieving development priorities and the SDGs. Operating under the UN Secretariat's Development Operations Coordination Office (DCO), the RCO in Kingston, Jamaica, covers multiple countries. This role supports the UN 2.0 shift, emphasizing data, digital innovation, and a mission-driven culture.
Job Purpose
The Associate Communications Officer will support the UN Resident Coordinator Office (RCO) in Kingston, Jamaica, by contributing to the implementation of communications strategies. This involves gathering media insights, drafting messaging, building media relationships, and creating compelling content across various platforms to raise awareness and drive engagement for UN initiatives. The role aims to enhance the visibility and impact of the UN's work in achieving development priorities and SDGs within the covered multi-country region, ensuring effective communication with target audiences and stakeholders.
Responsibilities
The Associate Communications Officer will contribute to gathering and analyzing media monitoring insights to inform communication strategies, focusing on public narratives and reputational risks. Responsibilities include implementing communication strategies to boost awareness and engagement, drafting compelling narratives and messaging for diverse platforms, and fostering relationships with media outlets. The role involves developing media lines, planning press events, and potentially acting as a spokesperson. Additionally, the officer will produce communications products like press releases and reports, develop and execute communication campaigns, build strategic partnerships, and contribute to outreach and advocacy efforts. This includes creating content for radio and podcasts, assisting with reporting, staying updated on communication trends, and maintaining data privacy and confidentiality.
Work Experience
A minimum of two years of progressive experience in communications or international relations is required. Essential experience includes understanding risks to information integrity (misinformation, disinformation, hate speech) and skills in collecting, processing, and analyzing data. Desirable experience includes proficiency with data visualization tools, knowledge of digital media platforms, strategic communications practices, data analytics, and data protection standards.
Skills
Key skills include professionalism, strategic thinking, public speaking, critical thinking, knowledge of strategic communications, media monitoring, digital design, creative content development, data analysis and interpretation, and effective planning and organization. Strong communication abilities, including clear speaking and writing, active listening, and tailoring messages to audiences, are essential. The role also requires the ability to identify data sources, conduct research, and maintain confidentiality.