Associate Communications Officer

Org. Setting and ReportingThis position is located in the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine (HRMMU) based in Kyiv, Ukraine. The incumbent reports to the Head of Mission/Deputy Head of Mission. ResponsibilitiesWithin delegated authority, the Associate Communications Officer will be responsible for the following duties: - Supports design and implementation of the communication strategy of the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine (HRMMU) for human rights promotion and increased visibility of HRMMU: (a) Produces and/or oversees production of communication and reporting materials, including texts for social media, stories, press releases, images and videos, infographics, leaflets, backgrounders etc; (b) Oversees maintenance and uploading the information on official websites and social media to ensure that the content there is updated; (c) Contributes to organizing public online and offline events, including the launch of the OHCHR public reports in Ukraine, Human Rights Day etc; (d) Works collectively with other UN communication officers within the UN Communication and Advocacy Group (UNCAG); elaborating and participating in joint digital communications campaigns, ensuring human rights angle and approach; - Establishes and maintains contacts with media, responding to media requests, initiating and arranging interviews; - Monitors and analyzes current events, public opinion and press; identifies issues and trends in Ukraine’ political, social and economic environment, and advises the management on appropriate actions/responses; - Provides guidance to other members of the communication team within the Mission in line with the overall guidance of the Head of Mission/Deputy Head of Mission; - Performs other communication-related functions and special duties as required. CompetenciesPROFESSIONALISM: Demonstrates knowledge of strategic communications principles and practices. Demonstrates knowledge of risks to information integrity - misinformation, disinformation, hate speech, and threats in fragile, post conflict, and crisis environments. Demonstrates ability to develop and implement communications strategies. Demonstrates ability to draft and tailor clear messages for diverse audiences. Demonstrates skills to conduct research such as systematic data collection and analysis of information from various sources. Demonstrates knowledge of current and emerging digital media platforms, their principles and technologies. Demonstrates the ability to analyze and interpret data in support of decision-making and convey resulting information to management. Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and proficiency in 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. EducationAdvanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in communication, journalism, international relations, media relations, public information, marketing, other social sciences or humanities. A first-level university degree in the above-mentioned area in combination with two additional years of qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree. Job - Specific QualificationNot available. Work ExperienceA minimum of two (2) years of progressively responsible experience in communications, international relations, public information or other relevant areas is required. Experience in developing talking points, press releases and media lines, including in crisis situations and on sensitive issues is required. Experience in public relations and/or managing contacts and networking with the media, non-governmental organizations, government officials etc. is required. Experience in working with human rights messaging is desirable. Experience within the United Nations common system or similar international organization is desirable. LanguagesEnglish and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this job opening, English is required. Ukrainian and Russian are required. The table below shows the minimum required level for each skill in these languages, according to the UN Language Framework (please consult https://languages.un.org for details).