Organizational Context and Scope
Under the overall supervision of the Chief of Mission and direct supervision of the Project Development and Reporting Officer, and in coordination with the Regional Media and Communications Officer and the Media, Innovation & Community Engagement Unit at Headquarters (HQ), the National Media and Communications Officer will be responsible for supporting the implementation of media and communications-related activities in IOM Country Office (CO).
- Assist in implementing the CO’s external communications strategies in line with the Organization’s strategic communications priorities and guidelines, supporting efforts to promote an accurate narrative on migration-related issues with the media, general public, the UN and other key partners.
- Support the preparation of Media Lines to Take in crisis situations compiling background information and drafting inputs for review by the Regional Media and Communications Officer and relevant colleagues at Media, Innovation & Community Engagement Unit at HQ.
- Provide inputs to the Senior Management Team (SMT) on communications issues, under the guidance of supervisor.
- In coordination with the project managers, assist in the development and implementation of project-level communications plans in alignment with IOM communications guidelines.
- Draft or review external communications content produced by the CO, including stories, blogs, video and social media content; revise drafts for clearance in coordination with the Regional Media and Communications Officer.
- Support the organization of high-profile visibility events and media interviews; assist in preparing briefing materials and media Lines to Take for the Chief of Mission and the Senior Management Team (SMT); contribute to communications campaigns through content development and logistical support at a national, regional and international level, including for relevant UN Days.
- Maintain the CO’s online presence, including its social media accounts and website, by managing day-to-day content updates and monitoring performance metrics, to increase the impact of CO’s digital outreach.
- Monitor the CO’s branding, public visibility, support advocacy efforts and verify the consistent application of IOM brand guidelines across all platforms and events; report inconsistencies and support corrective actions; assist in organizing public campaigns, high-level events and outreach initiatives that enhance visibility, strengthen strategic partnerships and advance advocacy objectives.
- Strengthen IOM’s links with media in-country by supporting outreach activities and maintaining media contact lists; coordinate responses to media requests in consultation with supervisor; prepare draft press releases and media packages, and support the organization of press briefings, media trainings and partnerships, among other relevant activities
- Draft media key messages, statements, talking points and other relevant background documents for IOM’s use, for review and clearance by senior communications staff.
- Participate in meetings of the UN Country Team’s Communication Group and other relevant actors by provide updates, background information and draft inputs as requested, under the guidance of supervisor.
- Undertake duty travel to take photographs and video footage and gather material for multi-media content showcasing the humanitarian situation and IOM field activities. Ensure that Media and Communications content is clear and concise, and that digital informed consent is secured.
- Verify that there is appropriate gender, diversity and inclusion awareness in all IOM external communications and report any inconsistencies to the supervisor.
- Supervise and provide guidance to assigned staff, as required, to ensure high-quality, consistent and results-oriented communications outputs. Contribute to knowledge sharing and participate in training activities, as required.
- Perform such other duties as may be assigned.
Education
Master’s degree in Journalism, Communications, Business Administration, Political or Social Sciences, or a related field from an accredited academic institution; or,
- Bachelor’s degree in one of the above fields with two years of relevant professional experience.
Experience
- Experience as a writer, editor and content producer/manager in international Journalism and/or public information roles, preferably in the Region;
- Experience in digital communications and social media;
- Experience in corporate writing and editing;
- Experience in managing donor visibility;
- Experience with media liaison;
Experience in humanitarian communications;
- Experience working in the region and/or in an emergency setting an advantage; and,
- Experience in working in UN or other International organizations.
Skills
- Skills in graphic design, particularly using Adobe programmes an advantage;
- Skills in photography and videography, both shooting and editing an advantage;
- Demonstrated gender awareness and gender sensitivity;
- High level of professionalism and ability to work under pressure and adhere to strict deadlines in a complex and fast changing environment; and,
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively and harmoniously with colleagues from varied cultures and professional backgrounds.
Languages
All IOM staff members in all categories are required to be fluent in one of the IOM's official languages (English, French, Spanish).
For this position, fluency in English and Tok Pisin
Proficiency of language(s) required will be specifically evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments.
Required Competencies
Notes
Any offer made to the candidate in relation to this vacancy notice is subject to funding confirmation.
This selection process may be used to staff similar positions in various duty stations. Recommended candidates will remain eligible to be appointed in a similar position for a period of 24 months.
Appointment will be subject to certification that the candidate is medically fit for appointment, accreditation, any residency or visa requirements, security clearances.
IOM has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and IOM, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination based on gender, nationality, age, race, sexual orientation, religious or ethnic background or disabilities.
IOM does not charge a fee at any stage of its recruitment process (application, interview, processing, training or other fee). IOM does not request any information related to bank accounts.
No late applications will be accepted. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.