Public Information Officer (Executive Writer) - United Nations Environment Programme

Closing date: Sunday, 29 March 2015

Posting Title: PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER (Executive Writer), P4

Job Code Title: PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER

Department/ Office

United Nations Environment Programme

Duty Station

NAIROBI

Posting Period

28 January 2015-29 March 2015

Job Opening number

15-PUB-UNEP-38470-R-NAIROBI (O)

United Nations Core Values: Integrity, Professionalism, Respect for Diversity

Special Notice

Staff members are subject to the authority of the Secretary-General and to assignment by him or her. In this context, all staff are expected to move periodically to new functions in their careers in accordance with established rules and procedures.

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Organizational Setting and Reporting

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the United Nations system's designated entity for addressing environmental issues at the global and regional level. Its mandate is to coordinate the development of environmental policy consensus by keeping the global environment under review and bringing emerging issues to the attention of governments and the international community for action. UNEP's Division of Communications and Public Information (DCPI) communicates UNEP's core messages to all stakeholders and partners, raising environmental awareness and enhancing the profile of UNEP worldwide. This post is located in the Division of Communications and Public Information of the United Nations Environment Programme at the Nairobi duty station.

Responsibilities

Under the supervision of the Division Director and Deputy Director, the incumbent will perform the following functions:

1. Write speeches and provide editorial services for the Executive Office and Spokesperson;
2. evelop key messages and forewords for the Executive Office for key publications.
3. Write summaries and key messages for the UNEP Social media platforms - Facebook, Twitter, and other conventional platforms, with an aim of expanding UNEP's engagement with the public.
4. Provide editorial support to UNEP Division and Regional Directors.
5. Work closely with the communications team in developing key messages and themes of major UNEP events to promote relevant policy or science messages.
6. Provide writing support to other corporate writing assignments including; for corporate products, for UN leadership, and for deputed spokespersons.
7. Provide writing support for news coverage of the Executive Office and for corporate initiatives.
8. Write texts to be issued in the name of the UN Secretary General on occasions for which UNEP is the lead agency.
9. Perform other tasks associated with the delivery and functioning of the Spokesperson and Media Section of DCPI, as prescribed by the Division Director or his deputed authority.

Competencies

Professionalism: Proven competence in writing 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; Demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; Shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges.

Planning and organization: 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.

Communication: Speaks and writes clearly, 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 march the audience; Demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.

Teamwork: Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity; Ability to lead and gain assistance and cooperation of others in a team endeavor; Gives and welcomes feedback; Contributes to building a positive team spirit; Puts success of team above own interests; Able to build morale and group commitments to goals and objectives; Supports everyone's efforts to succeed.

Education

Advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in journalism/communication or related field is requierd. A first level university degree in combination with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Work Experience

A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in public information or journalism, including at least three years in an international context. Strong background in writing and editing for publication is required.

Languages

English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For the post advertised, fluency in oral and written English is required. Working knowledge of French and Spanish is an asset. Knowledge of another UN official language is an advantage.

Assessment Method

Evaluation of qualified candidates for this position will include a substantive assessment which will be followed by a competency-based interview.

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