About UN Special Magazine
Founded in 1949, UN Special is the official publication of international civil servants of the United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG) and the World Health Organization (WHO). Its recent expansion to include contributors from the other international organizations based in Geneva has further increased its reputation and readership.
UN Special is presently circulated to all the offices of UNOG and WHO, as well as to other international organizations and agencies based in Geneva. It is also sent to all permanent missions at Geneva. In total, over 10 500 copies of the magazine are distributed 10 times a year. Several copies are also distributed to the various offices of the UN and WHO around the world. In addition, it is also distributed on the web site, www.unspecial.org.
This publication is the most widely circulated magazine dedicated to international organizations in Geneva, and has achieved international recognition vis-à-vis the Geneva institutional, economic and political actors.
Description of duties
The overall purpose of this position is to coordinate the publication of the magazine every month, under the leadership of the Editor-in-Chief. Responsibilities include the following 3 phases of publication:
Editorial schedule and copy-editing
o Provides thorough research input into articles as needed
o Approaches potential and relevant contributors proactively to gather articles in line with main theme
o Distributes editorial terms of reference and photo guidelines to potential contributors
o Ensures all articles are received on time and follows up with the contributors
o Verifies the alignment of the articles with the editorial policy and ensures appropriate photo credits
o Copy edits articles in English and/or French
o Searches for photos and designs infographics to accompany articles
Pre-production and Proofreading
o Liaises with external partners such as publisher and designer
o Provides detailed proofreading of the first draft of the magazine and send comments to designer
o Shares article in final layout to author for approval
Distribution
o Ensures the refill of the magazine’s displays at the Palais des Nations and WHO
o Liaises with partners involved in distribution of UN Special to diplomatic missions
o Updates UN Special website on a weekly basis
o Updates UN Special social media platforms weekly
Other administrative duties
o Is responsible for the logistics of the monthly meetings of the Editorial Board (sends out invitation, books venue, prints agendas, coordinates presentations and audiovisuals, takes minutes and shares them with Board members)
o Provides support to the Inter-Agency Committee (IAC) that appoints the Editor-in-Chief and the Editorial Board
o Compiles a collection of “back-up” articles for use if needed
o Is responsible for the archives of previous editions and for all communications relating to archives
o Receives phone calls and visitors and responds to routine enquiries and information requests
o Supports the Editor-in-Chief in all other tasks and initiatives as required
Skills Required
o At least 5 years of relevant experience in journalism, editing, project coordination
o Professional writing and research skills in English and French
o Copy editing and editorial production experience
o Graphic design skills to prepare infographics and images for articles
o Sense of initiative in finding solutions to problems and ability to work autonomously
o Detail oriented, organized, proactive, professional
Qualifications
Applicants should have a solid background in one or more of the following fields:
- Journalism
- Communications
- Graphic Design
- Translation/Editing
Language
Expert proficiency in English and French is essential. Knowledge of another UN language, especially Spanish, will be considered an asset.
Duration of contract 11 months – part time (60%)
Indicative starting date: as soon as possible
Deadline for application: 15 June 2016
Remuneration CHF 4000 / month
HOW TO APPLY:
If interested, please send your CV and cover letter to e-dcp@unitar.org indicating “Assistant Editor UN Special” in your subject line. UNITAR is receiving applications and managing the selection process, but the contract will be issued by the United Nations Office in Geneva (UNOG).
