Associate Public Information Officer - Unocha - Nationals Only

Organizational Context

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) is part of the UN Secretariat, mandated to mobilize resources and coordinate humanitarian action. The Regional Office for West and Central Africa (ROWCA) aims to strengthen its operational capacities and presence. This role, based in Dakar, Senegal, supports OCHA's mandate by collecting, analyzing, and disseminating information on humanitarian situations and aid.

Job Purpose

This role is crucial for enhancing OCHA's public information capabilities and advocacy for populations in need within the West and Central Africa region. The Associate Public Information Officer will support the Public Information Unit by producing and disseminating timely and relevant information about humanitarian crises and OCHA's activities. The position aims to increase the unit's capacity to cover expanding humanitarian challenges across new geographical areas, ensuring effective communication and coordination with media, local organizations, and other stakeholders to advocate for humanitarian assistance and inform the public.

Responsibilities

The Associate Public Information Officer will draft diverse communication products, including press releases and social media content, to support unit and office priorities. Responsibilities include producing and disseminating information on OCHA ROWCA's objectives and activities to media and local organizations, and communicating broader humanitarian efforts in the region. The role involves monitoring and analyzing news, public opinion, and press to identify trends and ensure key developments are reported. Additionally, the officer will gather and analyze performance data for information products, propose improvements, and coordinate with other units and partners to harmonize messages and integrate campaign themes. Assisting with media relations and contributing to capacity building through best practice exchange are also key duties.

Work Experience

A minimum of two years of professional experience for those with a Master's degree (or four years for a first-level degree) is required, preferably with international organizations in the humanitarian sector, focusing on communication, journalism, or public relations. Experience in producing written and multimedia content, managing corporate social media accounts with performance data analysis, and proficiency in English and French are essential.

Skills

Creative and engaging writing, multimedia asset production (e.g., Canva), corporate social media management, performance data analysis, strong written and oral communication in English and French, coordination, media relations, IT proficiency (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).

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