Public Information Officer

Organizational Context

The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), part of the UN Secretariat, ensures coherent humanitarian responses by bringing together actors and providing a framework for their contributions. OCHA's mission is to mobilize and coordinate effective humanitarian action, advocate for those in need, and promote preparedness and sustainable solutions. This role is within the Crisis Response Division, supporting the Ebola response in Bunia, DRC, under the Head of Office.

Job Purpose

The Public Information Officer will implement information programs to publicize priority issues and major events, developing and executing information strategies. This involves monitoring current events and public opinion, advising management on responses, and actively promoting media coverage through various activities like press conferences and interviews. The role includes producing and overseeing the creation of diverse communication products such as press kits, releases, articles, and audio-visual materials. Additionally, the officer will maintain professional relationships with key stakeholders, act as a focal point for specific issues, and provide guidance to junior staff. The position also requires collecting and analyzing data to support planning and decision-making through reports and visualizations, contributing to effective humanitarian action and communication efforts.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement information programs to publicize priority issues and major events, including strategy drafting, coordination, monitoring, and outcome analysis. Monitor and analyze current events, public opinion, and press coverage to identify trends and advise management on appropriate responses. Undertake activities to promote media coverage, such as organizing press conferences and interviews, developing media strategies, and managing media outreach. Produce or oversee the production of various communication products, including press kits, releases, articles, speeches, and audio-visual materials, from topic generation to final distribution. Prepare drafts for UN publications based on official documentation. Initiate and maintain professional relationships with key constituencies and act as a focal point for specific issues, responding to inquiries. Select and manage information transmitted to key constituencies. Provide guidance and supervision to junior staff. Collect and analyze data to identify trends and provide insights through visualizations for planning and decision-making.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in public information, journalism, international relations, or public administration is required. Experience managing social media content is also required. Desirable experience includes working in a UN or international organization communication environment, media engagement, writing on humanitarian crises, field communications, health emergencies, and experience in the West and Central Africa Region.

Skills

Professionalism in communications strategy and execution, media operations, marketing, audience outreach, and message targeting. Ability to analyze diverse information, identify public affairs issues, handle sensitive situations, and cultivate relationships. Proficiency in producing clear written and oral communications. Strong planning and organizational skills, including goal setting, prioritization, risk assessment, and time management. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to listen and respond effectively. Data analysis and interpretation skills for decision-making.

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