2019 is a critical year for UNFPA as we mark the 25th anniversary of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) with the organization of a massive high-level Summit in Nairobi on 12-14 November 2019. This Summit is of the highest significance as its success or failure will impact the reputation of UNFPA and is likely to impact our ability to fundraise successfully in the future.

To ensure a successful Summit, it is essential that a strong communications plan be implemented that can raise the visibility of the Summit and get people excited about attending it. The communcations strategy is built on a two pronged strategy. On the one hand we need to drive visibility and excitement (promote) and on the other we need to prepare to deal with opposition to the Summit (protect).

This requires skills both in dealing with media – writing, pitching, media management and follow up – and skills in issues and crisis preparedness and management. This is a specific skillset acquired by people with  public relations and reputation building experience.

Main tasks and responsibilites

Reporting to the Chief, Media and Communications, the Communications Consultant will undertake the following key tasks.  Further elaboration will be developed after the recruitment of the consultant:

• Develops, leads and proactively executes effective global communications strategies and campaigns aimed at raising visibility, and awareness of the Nairobi Summit and of UNFPA’ s issues and brand. 
• Actively pitches and builds relationships with journalists and editors about our key topics and events. Answers media inquiries, helps coordinate media trips, press conferences and other press events.
• Leads / supports  UNFPA’s issues and crisis management efforts in collaboration with team and with the support of an external PR vendor. This includes stakeholder mapping, development of messaging, crisis scenarios and strategy, dealing with journalists and stakeholders,
• Develops pithy messages and communications materials (e.g. talking points, press releases, op-eds, social media posts, media advisories) for use by UNFPA staff when working with partners, traditional and digital media. Advises UNFPA communications officers around the world on their communications outreach around these issues.
• Represents the branch in interdivisional and Fund-wide working groups.
• Carries out any other duties assigned by the Chief of MCB.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• 10-12 years experience with progressive responsibility in public relations, corporate communications, integrated marketing, branding;
• Advance University Degree in a relevant field is required;
• Specific know-how and experience driving issues and crisis preparedness programs and handling live crises, preferably in the social space;
• Specific experience dealing with global media, messaging, pitching, content creation;
• Experience in digital, social and traditional media marketing, particularly related to conferences and events;
• Creative thinker, ability to work harmoniously with staff members of different national and cultural backgrounds;
• Ability to think strategically and work well under pressure;
• Good writing and communications skills;
• Initiative, sound judgment;
• Fluency in English required;
• An interest in international development and/ or purpose driven campaigns;

How to apply: 

Interested candidates should send CV and cover letter with "Communications Consultant" in the subject, to Ms. Selinde Dulckeit, dulckeit@unfpa.org., by 2 JULY 2019

UNFPA is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture. Individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence.