Communication and Advocacy Specialist
Organizational Context
UNICEF operates in over 190 countries and territories, dedicated to saving children's lives, defending their rights, and helping them fulfill their potential from early childhood through adolescence. We are committed, passionate, and proud of our work, viewing the promotion of every child's rights not just as a job, but as a calling.
Job Purpose
Under the supervision of the Chief Partnerships, Advocacy & Communication, the Communication and Advocacy Specialist will be responsible for developing, managing, coordinating, networking, implementing, and monitoring an advocacy and communication strategy. This includes associated products and activities aimed at public audiences to promote awareness, understanding, support, and respect for children’s and women’s rights. The role supports UNICEF's mission, priorities, and programmes at the country, regional, and global levels, as well as those of the UN Country Team. Specifically, the specialist will support the design, planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of UNICEF Burkina Faso's communication, advocacy, media engagement, and public outreach strategies to support the Country Programme 2027–2030.
Responsibilities
The Communication and Advocacy Specialist will lead the development and execution of a comprehensive communication and advocacy strategy aligned with UNICEF's mission and country programme objectives. This involves managing media relations to ensure positive and accurate coverage of UNICEF's work and children's rights. The role requires building and maintaining a strong network of stakeholders, including government, civil society, and private sector partners, and collaborating with coalitions to amplify advocacy efforts. The specialist will also engage with celebrities and organize special events to raise awareness and support for UNICEF's campaigns. Responsibilities extend to supporting global priorities and campaigns, contributing to resource mobilization efforts through effective communication, and ensuring robust monitoring and evaluation of all communication and advocacy activities. Capacity building and support for national staff and partners in communication and advocacy will also be a key function. This includes developing and managing projects, overseeing budgets, and monitoring results to ensure strategic objectives are met effectively.
Work Experience
At least 5 years of relevant work experience in communication, print, broadcast, and/or new media. Experience in designing and managing projects, including budget management and monitoring and evaluation of results is also required.
Skills
Developing and implementing communication and advocacy strategies, Media relations management, Networking and partnership building, Digital and social media content management, Project design, management, and M&E, Budget management, Strong communication and presentation skills, Campaign narrative development, Stakeholder engagement, Coalition building, Resource mobilization support, Capacity building