Associate Communications Officer
Organizational Context
The UN Resident Coordinator Offices (UN RCO), part of a global reform, support countries in achieving development priorities and SDGs under the UN Development System. Located in Colombo, Sri Lanka, this role operates within the UN Secretariat's Resident Coordinator System, reporting to the Head of the RCO. The office is recalibrated to support the 2030 Agenda and UN 2.0 initiatives.
Job Purpose
The Associate Communications Officer plays a crucial role in supporting the UN Resident Coordinator Office in Sri Lanka. This position contributes to the implementation of communication strategies aimed at raising awareness, driving engagement, and building support for the UN's work among target audiences. The role involves gathering insights from media monitoring, drafting compelling narratives and messages, and creating optimized content for various platforms. It also supports media relations, event coordination, and the development of digital communication strategies, all while ensuring data-driven insights inform planning and decision-making to advance UN priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals.
Responsibilities
The Associate Communications Officer is responsible for contributing to media monitoring and analysis to inform communication strategies, including identifying reputational risks. This includes implementing communication strategies to raise awareness and engagement, and drafting narratives and messaging for diverse audiences across multiple channels. The role involves media mapping, fostering relationships with media outlets, and preparing materials for interviews. Responsibilities extend to developing media lines, planning press conferences and events, and creating optimized content and communication products like press releases and infographics. Additionally, the officer will contribute to developing and implementing communication campaigns and strategic partnerships, liaising with stakeholders for joint outreach, and staying updated on communication trends and technologies. Data analysis for reporting and performance assessment, along with maintaining confidentiality, are also key duties.
Work Experience
A minimum of two years of progressive experience in developing and implementing communication strategies is required. Demonstrated knowledge of strategic communication principles, ability to draft clear messages for diverse audiences, and skills in developing creative content are essential. Experience with current and emerging digital media platforms is desirable, as is one year or more of experience in data analytics.
Skills
Critical thinking, public speaking, digital design, presentation skills, data analysis and interpretation, research and analysis, communication (written and verbal), planning and organizing, knowledge of sustainable development concepts, and familiarity with digital media platforms.