Posted On: March 3, 2014
Media-Related Job
Media Organization: United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF)
Company Description
UNICEF promotes the rights and well-being of every child, in everything we do. Together with our partners, we work in 190 countries and territories to translate that commitment into practical action, focusing special effort on reaching the most vulnerable and excluded children, to the benefit of all children, everywhere. More information is available at http://www.unicef.org
Job Description
UNICEF seeks an experienced writer/editor to prepare quality communication content for UNICEF on basic education and gender equality.
As a member of the Public Advocacy section in the Division of Communication, the consultant will be responsible for all aspects of creating high-quality content to raise UNICEF’s profile as a thought leader in education and gender equality and keep multiple audiences informed about the Organization’s work, key achievements and results for children. Issues and topics include, but are not limited to: Access and Equity in Education, Education in Emergencies, Girls’ Education, Quality Learning, Innovation and the Post-2015 agenda.
S/he will also be responsible for developing and implementing advocacy and communication strategies on key education priorities and issues.
Strong writing and editing skills are required for this position.
The consultancy includes the following components:
• Sourcing and developing key messages and story ideas for online and offline communication materials, aligned with UNICEF’s global education and communication priorities.
• Writing and developing communication materials on a range of education issues in conjunction with UNICEF’s global campaigns, initiatives, and events.
• Developing content for UNICEF/UNICEF-led websites and other online platforms in the area of education, including Global Education First Initiative, Learning for Peace, World We Want and UNGEI.
• Developing and implementing communication and advocacy strategies and plans on key education priorities and issues.
• Researching facts and data to develop new products tailored to external and internal audiences and to update existing communication materials.
• Ensuring that texts developed are lively, clearly written and phrased in ways that keep the interest of the intended audience.
• Editing materials for clarity, readability and consistency of message, keeping in mind the publication’s audience.
• Developing ideas for infographics, factographs and images to creatively convey key messages and research findings through both online and offline communication materials.
• Working with internal and external editors, copy editors, translators and designers, as needed, coordinating with Education section colleagues for education-related publications, brochures and other communications materials.
• Performing other tasks as required.
• May be requested to work on weekends and holidays.
Qualifications
• Advanced university degree in communication, journalism, international affairs, or other development-related field; or equivalent professional work experience, combined with a first university degree in a related discipline.
• At least five years of work experience in developing and implementing communication strategies, writing and editing of stories, articles, briefs and other communication materials, including those for websites and web-based platforms.
• Demonstrated experience in communicating complex development issues to multiple audiences, and the ability to interpret technical and research data in a concise and engaging manner.
• Understanding of and experience with international development issues. Good understanding of UNICEF’s work and/or background in basic education and gender equality is highly desirable.
• Excellent writing, editing, and copyediting skills. Knowledge of UNICEF’s style guidelines is an advantage.
• Strong analytical skills.
• Excellent command of written and spoken English. Working knowledge of another UN language, preferably French or Spanish, is desirable.
• Ability to work effectively in a multi-cultural environment and with multiple stakeholders.
• Ability to be flexible and respond to changes as part of the review and feedback process. Accuracy of reporting and cross-checking for facts is essential.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks, prioritize, and work under tight deadlines.
To Apply
How to apply
Qualified candidates are requested to email a cover letter, a detailed curriculum vitae in English AND a duly completed United Nations Personal History form (available at www.unicef.org/employ) to Nadia Sariahmed at nsariahmed@unicef.org. Please also indicate your ability, availability and daily/monthly rate to undertake the consultancy. Applications submitted without a rate will not be considered.