Communication Specialist

Organizational Context

UNICEF has been active in Djibouti since 1981, collaborating with the government and partners to advance children's rights in health, nutrition, education, water, sanitation, hygiene, child protection, and social policy. Operating in a hardship environment at the crossroads of the Horn of Africa, UNICEF Djibouti prioritizes agility, partnerships, and results-based communication amidst regional challenges like drought and population movements. This role is part of a UNV initiative to enhance program diversity with talent from underrepresented nations.

Job Purpose

This assignment is part of a UNV-funded initiative to integrate diverse talent into UN programs, specifically targeting candidates from nations currently unrepresented among UN Volunteers. It offers a unique opportunity to ensure global volunteering reflects the world's diversity while providing hands-on experience with leading UN partners. The role anchors a joint UNICEF-UNV initiative in Djibouti, establishing a communication and partnerships team led by this Communication Specialist, working within the Office of the Representative. The goal is to enhance UNICEF's communication efforts and support children's rights in Djibouti.

Responsibilities

The Communication Specialist will lead UNICEF Djibouti's communication efforts, producing high-quality multimedia content (photos, videos, articles, infographics) and setting editorial direction for digital channels to increase reach and engagement. Responsibilities include conducting field coverage, collecting human-interest stories, and establishing performance analytics. The role involves developing donor-facing communication products for resource mobilization, maintaining relevant databases, and supporting grant agreement visibility. Additionally, the specialist will serve as the focal point for the UNICEF-UNV partnership, supporting the Young Champions Initiative, documenting volunteer contributions, and contributing to future UN Volunteer assignments. The position also entails coordinating and mentoring the national UN Volunteer and UN Community Volunteers, leading communication campaigns, contributing to inter-agency communication, building media relationships, and supporting emergency communication. Capacity building for staff and volunteers, and documenting best practices are also key duties.

Work Experience

A minimum of three years of relevant professional experience is required. This includes proven experience in social media and digital content strategy with measurable results, strong multimedia production skills (photography, videography, editing, design tools), and excellent writing, editing, and storytelling abilities. Experience producing donor-facing communication products, strong analytical and reporting skills, and the ability to coordinate and mentor a team are essential. Experience with the UN or international organizations, in humanitarian settings, or familiarity with UNV are desirable.

Skills

Key competencies include accountability, adaptability, flexibility, creativity, judgment, decision-making, planning, organizing, professionalism, communication, teamwork, and partnership building. The role requires strong skills in communication, advocacy, public information, project management, program development, strategy, and volunteer management. The incumbent must demonstrate UNICEF's core values: Care, Respect, Integrity, Trust, Accountability, and Sustainability, alongside a commitment to volunteerism.

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