Public Information Officer - United Nations

Responsibilities

Under the supervision of the Chief of Section (SCS), the incumbent will be responsible for the following:

•   Provide support and input to the officers and project/programme staff on administrative and procedural issues related to programme/project and budget formulation and oversight, implementation, monitoring and reporting.
•   Help track peacekeeping and related issues in the press by maintaining a daily digest of news clips using a wide range of open source media.
•   Serve as Focal Point with key communications stakeholders, e.g. Desk Officers, Spokesperson’s Office, UN Communications group, to coordinate media responses, provision of substantive input for press statements, etc.
•   Assists with development of social media communications products and content across multiple platforms ensuring accurate and consistent messaging and branding and alignment with the communications strategy.
•   Ensure the provision of logistical support for project/programme delivery.
•   Assist the Chief of Section in the coordination, management, implementation and follow-up of projects and office activities.
•   Assist in developing advocacy and communication strategies that increase awareness on the added value of UN Peacekeeping among UN and non-UN counterparts
•   Prepare special coverage reports/summaries on specific issues as needed.
•   Assist in the implementation of outreach and visibility activities for UN Peacekeeping, including preparing publicity materials, inputs for publications and other visibility materials.
•   Assist in overseeing maintenance of the UN Peacekeeping website.
•   Coordinate media responses, provision of substantive input for press statements, etc.
•   Attend interviews, draft talking points and briefing papers, help facilitate media contacts and requests.
•   Organise or participate in the organization of conferences, seminars, etc.
•   Prepare briefing materials for DPKO/DFS officials prior to these events, prepare notes of meetings.
•   Providing substantive support to the preparation and execution of meetings.
•   Organize the clearance, production and distribution of informational materials.
•   Undertake and manage projects and communication campaigns in support of peacekeeping issues as needed.
•   Oversee the work of the support staff and interns.
•   Establish working partnerships with a diverse range of actors and stakeholders.
•   Broker and support media related activities, press appearances and interviews.
•   Perform other related duties as may be assigned.

Qualification Required & Experience

Education

•   Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in communication, journalism, international relations, public administration or related field. A first-level university degree in combination with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Work Experience

•   A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in public information, journalism, international relations, public administration or related area, including experience at the international level.
•   Supervisory experience and experience in at least one peacekeeping mission is desirable.
•   Technological fluency with social media and all standard digital communication applications, including web management programs is desirable.

Competencies

PROFESSIONALISM

•   Strong communication and analytical skills and ability to rapidly process and integrate diverse information from various sources.
•   Proven ability in news gathering, writing and editing to very tight deadlines.
•   Thorough knowledge of peacekeeping issues and keen awareness of political sensitivities of inter governmental processes, understanding of, and experience in, dealing with the media.
•   Commitment to implementing the goal of gender equality by ensuring the equal participation and full involvement of women and men in all aspects of peace operations.

COMMUNICATION

•   Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately.
•   Asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication.
•   Tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience.
•   Demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.

PLANNING AND ORGANIZING

•   Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies.
•   Identifies priority activities and assignments.
•   Adjusts priorities as required.
•   Allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning.
•   Monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary.
•   Uses time efficiently.

Location: Accra