Communication Expert

Organizational Context

UNICEF Ethiopia operates under a 5-year country programme (2020-2025), aligned with the UNSDCF, focusing on strengthening national systems for data collection, analysis, monitoring, and equity promotion. The UNICEF Representation Office to the AU and UNECA in Addis Ababa aims to enhance cooperation on children's rights in Africa, supporting AU development agendas like Agenda 2063 and the Africa Fit for Children Agenda 2040. It works to centralize child rights in continental discussions and amplify UNICEF's contribution to Africa's development.

Job Purpose

This UN Volunteer assignment supports UNICEF's African Union Office/UNECA by providing communications and external relations services. The role is crucial for increasing the visibility of UNICEF's engagement with the AU and UNECA, advocating for children's rights across Africa. Key activities include content creation, event organization, media collaboration, and digital platform management. The expert will contribute to strategic communication efforts, produce advocacy materials, manage media relations, and support event planning, ultimately amplifying UNICEF's impact on child rights and development agendas continent-wide.

Responsibilities

The Communications Expert will enhance UNICEF's visibility and advocacy for children's rights with the AU and UNECA. Responsibilities include developing and updating annual advocacy calendars aligned with AU and UNICEF priorities, and supporting the production of the Office Newsletter. The role involves leading the creation of communication products like videos, flyers, and web-cards to promote UNICEF visibility and support the Spotlight Initiative for African Regional Programme (SIARP) 2.0. Additionally, the expert will manage media relations, update contact databases, refine media communication processes for events, and ensure timely dissemination of UNICEF messages via media and social platforms. Updating office web content is also a key duty. The role includes supporting participation in global advocacy activities, organizing SIARP 2.0 events, and assisting with online/offline event planning. Maintaining stakeholder contact lists, building relationships with partner communication departments (AUC, ACERWC, UNECA), and sharing UNICEF knowledge products are essential. The expert will also monitor and evaluate media material effectiveness, produce social media and website analytics, and contribute to annual reports and SIARP 2.0 reporting.

Work Experience

Seven years of relevant professional experience is required. This includes excellent English writing, oral communication, drafting, and reporting abilities. Experience in conducting advocacy campaigns, digital communications (social media, website management), and photography is essential. Familiarity with continental organizations like the African Union is an advantage. Strong organizational, interpersonal, and collaboration skills are necessary, along with an interest in child rights and the UN system. Working knowledge of other UN languages is desirable.

Skills

Key competencies include Professionalism, Integrity, Teamwork, Respect for Diversity, Commitment to Continuous Learning, Planning and Organizing, and Communication. Technical skills encompass excellent writing, oral communication, digital communications (social media, website management), photography, and document production/editing. Expertise in Arts and Design, Communication, and Development Programmes is also relevant.

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