Communication Specialist, P-4, DOC, New York

UNICEF works in 190 countries and territories to protect the rights of every child. UNICEF has spent 70 years working to improve the lives of children and their families. Defending children's rights throughout their lives requires a global presence, aiming to produce results and understand their effects. UNICEF believes all children have a right to survive, thrive and fulfill their potential – to the benefit of a better world. For every child,dedication.

UNICEF's media section is the first point of contact for all of UNICEF's global media inquiries. It cooperates closely with communication colleagues in regional and country offices to handle all media inquiries as timely and knowledgeable as possible, providing background briefings as well as breaking-news quotes, interviews and updates from the field and from UNICEF HQ.

How can you make a difference?

As the Emergency Lead in the Media Section, this position works closely with relevant colleagues to develop and implement media strategies around protracted and sudden onset emergencies.

Main responsibilities:

Develop media materials including Q&As, press releases, statements on ongoing emergencies in close consultation with Country and Regional Offices.

Disseminate media materials to National Committees, Country Offices, Regional Offices and Senior Management in a timely manner.

Advise Country & Regional Offices on strategies to draw attention to ongoing emergencies.

Develop and maintain strong working relationships with key media organizations, editors and journalist covering emergencies stories.

Act as UNICEF spokesperson while identifying and pitching story angles to relevant journalists.

Advise senior UNICEF staff on media strategy and implications for action and policies proposed.

Plan and organise press conferences as needed.

Supervise the day-to-day work of press officers working on emergencies

Prepare internal documents to assist in responding to media queries.

Monitor, advise on and respond to issues relating to the work of UNICEF to increase global awareness of UNICEF in the international media.

To qualify as an advocate for every child you will have…

An advanced university degree (Master’s or higher) in Communication, Journalism, Public Relations or a related discipline (A first University Degree in a relevant field combined with 2 additional years of professional experience may be accepted in lieu of an Advanced University Degree).

A minimum of8 yearsof relevant professional experience ininformation/communications or media relations field, at least four (4) of which should be in an international setting.

Knowledge of international media, good understanding of development issues, world affairs and current events.

Proven skills in communication, networking, strategic thinking, advocacy, negotiation, and ability to relate this to mass media.

Ability to exercise good judgment under pressure.

Ability to handle multiple assignments with competing deadlines. Able to work under pressure and to tight deadlines and capacity to work long hours when required.

Strong interpersonal communication skills and negotiating skills.

Broad-based knowledge and experience with both print and digital media.

Developing country work experience and/or familiarity with emergency is considered an asset.

Fluency in English and in another UN language (French or Spanish preferred)is required.Very strong English communication skills, particularly writing, are essential.

For every Child, you demonstrate…

Our core values of Commitment, Diversity and Integrity and core competencies in Communication, Working with People and Drive for Results.

This position is classified as “rotational” which means the incumbent is expected to rotate to another duty station upon completion of their tour of duty.

UNICEF is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

HOW TO APPLY:

UNICEF is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages qualified female and male candidates from all national, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons living with disabilities, to apply to become a part of our organization. To apply, click on the following link http://www.unicef.org/about/employ/?job=505993