Public Information Officer, P4
Public Information Officer, P4
UN OHRLLS - Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States
New York, United States
Org. Setting and Reporting
This position is located in the Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS), (UN-OHRLLS). The incumbent will report to the Director of UN-OHRLLS.
Responsibilities
Under the general guidance of the High Representative and supervision of the Director, the Public Information Officer will be responsible for the following duties:
- Takes the lead in strategy, planning, development and implementation of global communications campaigns in support of the implementation of the programmes of action for the LDCs, LLDCs and SIDS;
- Identifies sources and seeks funding and other assistance for major campaigns;
- Provides advice and expertise to managers, senior officers and other public information staff on a range of public affairs issues, methods, and approaches; anticipates and resolves communications/public relations issues/problems;
- Develops strategic partnerships with key constituencies to elicit support for and maximize impact of the Office’s promotional objectives; serves as principal liaison to media organizations;
- Prepares a diverse range of information communications products in support of the advocacy role of the Under-Secretary-General and High Representative and the Office;
- Drafts complex material for UN newsletters, periodicals, reports and books and edits drafts prepared by junior officers on issues relevant to the implementation of the programmes of action for the LDCs, LLDCs and SIDS;
- Evaluates results and impact of communications activities; reports on developments, trends and attitudes regarding the Office;
- Organizes media coverage and arranges for media contacts, briefings, interviews; organizes seminars, lectures, conferences, public events on major issues and events concerning the LDCs, LLDCs and SIDS;
- Builds information networks; plans and oversees maintenance of the website of the Office; plans and develops outreach activities;
- Manages the Office’s publications programme; produces materials for print/electronic/voice/visual media;
- Assists is the day-to-day operation of the unit to include participating in coordination of substantive and administrative activities of the unit, interpreting and disseminating policy, providing procedural advice, improving reporting systems, handling operational and administrative queries, preparing budget submissions, establishing and/or coordinating training programmes and monitoring and evaluating results;
- Coordinates and directs the Advocacy and Outreach Unit of the Office; mentors and supervises the work of junior officers on specific projects.
Competencies
- Professionalism: Knowledge of different aspects of public information and communication. Ability to address a range of issues in the context of political developments, public attitudes and local conditions. Ability to conceptualize, design and implement major information campaigns. Ability to rapidly analyze and integrate diverse information from varied sources. Ability to diplomatically handle sensitive situations with target audiences and cultivate productive relationships. Ability to produce a variety of written communications products in a clear, concise style. Ability to deliver oral presentations to various audiences. Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work;
- 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;
- Teamwork: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.
Education
Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in communication, journalism, international relations, public administration or related field is required. 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 seven years of progressively responsible experience in public information, journalism, international relations, public administration or related area is required. Experience at the international level in the context of public information is desirable. Experience in working on least developed countries or landlocked developing countries or small island developing states is desirable. Experience in developing and maintaining websites is desirable.
Languages
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For the post advertised, fluency in English is required. Knowledge of French is desirable. Knowledge of another UN official language is an advantage.
