Public Information Officer (Head Writer) (TJO), P4 (Temporary) at United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

Responsibilities
This post is located in the Communication Division at the Nairobi duty station. Under the general guidance of the Director and the supervision of Chief of Section, the Content and Client Services Section, the Public Information Officer (Head Writer) is responsible for the effective and efficient performance of the following duties:

• Programme implementation: Design, plan, develop and implement large, complex communication campaigns (e.g. story harvesting, global promotion initiatives, public information programmes, broad-reaching environment specific issues, etc.); Plan and manage the work to ensure smooth coordination, accuracy of the information and compliance with the content strategy; Provide advice and expertise to managers, senior officers and public information staff on a range of public information issues, methods and approaches; Anticipate and resolve communication/public relations issues/problems.
• Content preparation: Prepare diverse range of information communication products in support of UNEP's major campaign initiatives; Write complex materials for various UN Environment newsletters, periodicals, reports and other publications; Write texts to be issued in the name of UN Environment’s senior officials; Write speeches, speaking notes, media advisories, and other content for the use by media; Draft and edit the UNEP annual report; Edit press releases, media advisories and other written outputs drafted by junior officers; Work closely with the communication team in developing key messages and themes for major UNEP events to promote relevant policy or science messages.
• Capacity building: Evaluate results and impact of communication activities and report on developments, trends and attitudes regarding UNEP; Build information networks, plan and oversee maintenance of publicly accessible information materials on UNEP; plan and develop outreach activities including capacity building for journalists through workshops and training.
• Collects and analyzes data to identify trends or patterns and provide insights through graphs, charts, tables and reports using data visualization methods to enable data-driven planning, decision-making, presentation and reporting.

Competencies

• PROFESSIONALISM: Proven competence in writing complex reports, high level speeches, editing and production in the print and electronic and related media; Strong research and analytical skills; Up-to-date knowledge of current affairs, science and environmental issues; Ability to monitor and appraise programme implementation progress against milestones; ability to analyze and interpret data in support of decision-making and convey resulting information to management; Shows pride in work and in achievements; 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; establish effective collaboration and partnerships with officials at all levels inside and outside the organization. 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 the 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.

Education

• Advanced University Degree in Journalism, Communication, Social Sciences or other related field.
• A first-level university degree in combination with two (2) additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.
• Successful completion of both degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics or data science programs is desirable.

Work Experience

• Minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in public information, communication, journalism, international relations, public administration, programme management or related field, is required.

Experience At The International Level Is Required

• Experience as an English writer with focus on environmental and/or sustainable development issues is desirable.
• Experience in developing, analyzing and reviewing reports for Senior Government officials/Senior Management information is desirable.
• Two (2) years or more of experience in data analytics or related area is desirable.

Languages

• English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For the position advertised, fluency in English is required. Knowledge of another UN language is desirable.

Closng Date: 22th October, 2023