Communications Specialist at United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS)

Functions / Key Results Expected

Under the overall supervision and direction/guidance of Senior Management at the SCS-SAP Project Coordination Unit, the Communications Specialist (CS) will:

• Develop a brief communication strategy, including a stakeholder mapping exercise. The communication strategy needs in particular to integrate sustainability considerations given  that the remaining time period of the project of just two years;
• Develop, maintain and update a SCS-SAP partners/stakeholders contact list/database
• Lead the re-design of the SCS-SAP project website and its regular updating, making it a platform for interactive communication among project stakeholders
• Ensure adequate linkages and distribution of responsibilities between the SCS-SAP webite and SAP partner websites, and support the development of SCS-SAP Project-related content on partner websites;
• Strive to incorporate innovative technologies and tools, wherever deemed beneficial and feasible, to successfully implement the previous points;
• Advise the SPM and other project staff on media and communication strategic approaches for raising awareness on the SCS-SAP Project and its goals, objectives, activities and results; 
• Review, edit, and/or write communications & dissemination material (e.g. press releases, powerpoint slides and web stories on behalf of the SAP-SAP PCU;
• Dissemination to the media (in a non-technical format) of SCS-SAP key project messages;
• Produce and/or facilitate the production of SCS-SAP Project booklets, leaflets and newsletters, video production, photography, infographics, marketing/branding materials  or similar dissemination materials;
• (Support the) translation of dissemination materials, and/or review/revision of translated materials into local languages;
• Use of social media & applications like Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, online dashboards, to reach audiences with specially developed information, suitable for the used media and relevant for the targeted public;
• Exchange of project messages and outputs (e.g. communication materials, reports) among SCS-SAP partners and the SCS-SAP stakeholder community;
• Prepare SCS-SAP Project Experience Notes, for dissemination among the global LME Practitioners Community;
• Support the SCS-SAP in the context of the development of the “State of the marine ecosystems and associated living resources in the SCS-SAP region” reports and web portal;
• Promote and develop working relationships with media houses and practitioners in the SCS-SAP Participating States;
• Organise media events such as interviews, panel discussion, town hall meetings, etc., to engage the public and build awareness on relevant issues and opportunities;
• Liaise and collaborate  IW:LEARN GEF Projects or similar initiatives, as applicable; 
• Contribute to the communicational elements of the Project M&E activities;
• Other activities, as requested by the SCS-SAP SPM

Skills

Content Development, Microsoft Office, Newsletters, Press Releases, Social Media, Sustainability, Text Editing, Website Localization, Written communication

Competencies

• Develops and implements sustainable business strategies, thinks long term and externally in order to positively shape the organisation. Anticipates and perceives the impact and implications of future decisions and activities on other parts of the organisation.
• Treats all individuals with respect; responds sensitively to differences and encourages others to do the same. Upholds organisational and ethical norms. Maintains high standards of trustworthiness. Role model for diversity and inclusion.
• Acts as a positive role model contributing to the team spirit. Collaborates and supports the development of others. For people managers only: Acts as positive leadership role model, motivates, directs and inspires others to succeed, utilizing appropriate leadership styles.
• Demonstrates understanding of the impact of own role on all partners and always puts the end beneficiary first. Builds and maintains strong external relationships and is a competent partner for others (if relevant to the role).
• Efficiently establishes an appropriate course of action for self and/or others to accomplish a goal. Actions lead to total task accomplishment through concern for quality in all areas. Sees opportunities and takes the initiative to act on them. Understands that responsible use of resources maximizes our impact on our beneficiaries.
• Open to change and flexible in a fast paced environment. Effectively adapts own approach to suit changing circumstances or requirements. Reflects on experiences and modifies own behavior. Performance is consistent, even under pressure. Always pursues continuous improvements.
• Evaluates data and courses of action to reach logical, pragmatic decisions. Takes an unbiased, rational approach with calculated risks. Applies innovation and creativity to problem-solving.
• Expresses ideas or facts in a clear, concise and open manner. Communication indicates a consideration for the feelings and needs of others. Actively listens and proactively shares knowledge. Handles conflict effectively, by overcoming differences of opinion and finding common ground.

Education Requirements

Required

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) preferably in communications/social sciences, journalism, public relations, marketing and/or environmental sciences or related fields with 7 years of relevant experience OR Master’s degree (or equivalent) in any of the above or related fields with 5 years of relevant experience is required