PFM Communications and Storytelling Associate
Organizational Context
The Vaka Pasifika project, implemented by UNDP NIU, aims to enhance public financial management (PFM), accountability, and transparency in Pacific Island countries. It supports inclusive and sustainable development by documenting regional PFM experiences and lessons. Effective communication and storytelling are crucial for translating complex PFM concepts into relatable narratives, highlighting the impact of public finance decisions on communities and fostering wider regional discussions on development.
Job Purpose
The PFM Communications and Storytelling Associate will support the Vaka Pasifika project by researching, identifying, and developing PFM-related human-interest stories for publication. This role involves desk research, stakeholder engagement, interviews, and fact-checking to create accessible narratives that link technical PFM issues with practical experiences and development outcomes. The Associate will contribute to identifying story themes, coordinating research, and refining content to effectively communicate PFM relevance and highlight Pacific perspectives, experiences, and practical examples to a broad audience.
Responsibilities
The Associate will support communication and storytelling activities to enhance understanding of Public Financial Management (PFM) in the Pacific. Key duties include researching and identifying relevant PFM themes and country experiences for human-interest stories, reviewing existing communication materials, and developing a story production workplan. The role involves conducting desk research, gathering data, and engaging with stakeholders such as government representatives, civil society, and development partners. Responsibilities also include coordinating interviews, translating technical PFM concepts into accessible narratives, drafting stories and case studies, and supporting fact-checking and verification. The Associate will collaborate with the project team to refine story angles, incorporate feedback, and prepare content for publication and dissemination.
Work Experience
A minimum of 1 month of general experience is required, with a preference for 5 months of relevant experience. This includes demonstrated ability in research, information gathering, and content creation; experience conducting interviews and stakeholder engagement; strong writing and editing skills for non-technical audiences; and basic fact-checking and desk research capabilities. Familiarity with developing communication products and digital tools is beneficial.
Skills
Key competencies include accountability, adaptability, creativity, judgment, planning, professionalism, and self-management. Essential skills involve strong research, writing, and editing abilities, effective interpersonal and communication skills for stakeholder engagement, and the capacity to work collaboratively and manage multiple tasks. Basic knowledge of PFM, governance, or development issues, and experience with Pacific Island contexts are advantageous.