Communications Specialist
Organizational Context
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) supports approximately 170 countries in poverty eradication, reducing inequalities, and building resilience. The UN SDG Action Campaign, hosted by UNDP in Bonn, Germany, is a special initiative of the UN Secretary-General. Its mission is to accelerate progress towards a just, inclusive, and sustainable future by amplifying unheard communities, nurturing changemakers, and harnessing creativity to inspire hope and bold action. The Campaign focuses on engagement support, advocacy, communications, and recognizing innovative initiatives through awards.
Job Purpose
The Communications Specialist will support the UN SDG Action Campaign by contributing to editorial content development, social media engagement, and overall campaign communications. This role is crucial for ensuring consistent messaging, enhancing visibility, and expanding outreach in alignment with the Campaign’s strategic priorities. The specialist will play a key part in developing and implementing communications and advocacy strategies, managing content calendars, and crafting compelling narratives across various platforms. This position aims to amplify the Campaign's mission to accelerate progress towards a sustainable future by mobilizing communities and driving meaningful change through creative communication and advocacy efforts.
Responsibilities
The Communications Specialist will lead and coordinate the Campaign’s communications and advocacy strategies, including digital outreach, and manage editorial planning and content calendars. Responsibilities include producing high-quality editorial and multimedia content, overseeing creative communications, and coordinating media outreach. The role involves managing and growing the Campaign’s social media presence, overseeing website development and maintenance, and analyzing digital platform performance. Additionally, the specialist will streamline internal communication workflows, support strategic partnerships, and identify joint communication opportunities with UN system entities and external stakeholders. The position also entails facilitating knowledge sharing and capacity building, and promoting UNDP's work and collaboration opportunities.
Work Experience
A minimum of 3 years of relevant professional experience is required, with 5 years being preferred. This includes proven excellent drafting skills for various content types, a track record in media relations and engagement for UN teams, and experience coordinating communications for high-level international events. Experience with digital platforms, social media management, and digital community building is also valuable. Knowledge of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and related international debates is considered an asset.
Skills
Key competencies include system thinking, advocacy strategy and implementation, media relations, digital content creation, storytelling, and event planning. Essential skills encompass strong communication abilities, public information expertise, proficiency in digital and social media management, and the capacity to develop compelling narratives and manage media outreach effectively.