Event Support for the El Niño Preparedness Webinar Series
Organizational Context
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the UN's global development network, connecting countries with knowledge and resources to build better lives. The UNDP Office in Geneva supports this mission by serving as a platform for Geneva-based organizations and engaging with France and Switzerland. The Disaster Risk Reduction and Recovery for Building Resilience Team (DRT) within UNDP focuses on strengthening global capacity in disaster risk reduction, recovery, and resilience-building, aligning with strategic objectives for crisis resilience.
Job Purpose
This role supports the UNDP Disaster Risk Reduction and Recovery for Building Resilience Team (DRT) in organizing and documenting a crucial webinar series on El Niño preparedness. The series, titled "Responding to a Super El Niño: Preparedness in Practice," aims to bring together practitioners from UNDP, governments, and partners to share practical experiences and strategies for preparing for and mitigating El Niño impacts. The volunteers will gain hands-on experience in managing global online events, learn about UNDP's work in preparedness and early warning systems, and contribute to strengthening global resilience against climate-related risks. This assignment offers a valuable opportunity to contribute to a critical development agenda and enhance practical event management skills.
Responsibilities
The online volunteers will support three sessions each of the six-part webinar series "Responding to a Super El Niño: Preparedness in Practice." Responsibilities include coordinating logistics such as scheduling, setting up online meetings, and managing registration. Volunteers will draft invitations, promotional posts, and update the series page on SparkBlue. They will liaise with speakers to gather materials and prepare agendas, speaker briefs, and slide decks. During sessions, volunteers will provide technical and moderation support, manage interactive elements like polls and Q&A, and record sessions. Post-session duties involve drafting summaries of key takeaways, publishing them with recordings and presentations on SparkBlue, and tracking registration, attendance, and feedback. A joint contribution to a final report summarizing the series' outcomes and lessons learned is also expected.
Work Experience
While specific years of experience are not detailed, candidates should possess expertise in disaster risk reduction, climate change adaptation, humanitarian action, or international development. Experience in supporting online events or webinars, familiarity with generative AI tools, and basic design skills are considered assets. Strong organizational, writing, and communication skills are necessary.
Skills
Key skills include expertise in disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation. Strong research, writing, and summarizing abilities are essential. Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel) is required. Experience with online event platforms (e.g., Zoom, Microsoft Teams) and basic design tools (e.g., Canva) are advantageous. Excellent organizational, detail-orientation, and collaboration skills are also important.