Background

Joint communication describes UN agencies’ efforts to coordinate and share some of their communication resources at the country level in a strategic way in order to improve the overall reputation and positioning of the UN system at country level and support its advocacy for national and international development objectives, particularly the Millennium Development Goals.

Building on Delivering as One initiative’s prevailing spirit, UNCT in Brazil represented by 21 organisms will assist with the updating of the UN website in the country to communicate strategically with internal and external audiences for shaping perceptions on UN’s work in the country.

Duties and Responsibilities

Under the guidance of the UN Resident Coordinator (UNRC) and the Director of the UN Information Centre (UNIC), and under the direct supervision of the UNIC Rio National Information Officer, the Public Information Assistants will be responsible for the following duties:

1) Produce and disseminate information in the website related to the activities of UN in Brazil:

• Maintaining and updating the UN website by proactively on a daily basis gathering, writing and uploading information received from the Resident Coordinator’s Office and other UN agencies in the country.
• Improving the content, functions and links of websites.
• Editing documents to conform to UN format; structuring and preparing new pages, incorporating graphics/photos as needed.

2) Translate UN information and documents, such as backgrounders, press releases, Secretary-General’s messages, op-eds, leaflets etc. into Portuguese.

3) When needed, design, produce and disseminate promotional materials of the UN, such as newsletter on behalf of UNCT.

4) Translate selected articles and interviews published by the UN Secretariat.

5) Interview UN Head of Agencies in Brazil and partners, as necessary.

6) Assist in the preparation of any exhibition related to the UN activities.

Failure to carry out any of the above tasks in a timely manner will affect the working of the Un System as a whole and will generate lack of confidence in UN on the part of its partners. Thus, the key results have an impact on the success of UN in Brazil.

Competencies

Knowledge of internal policies, processes and procedures related to the communication, production and dissemination of public information. Ability to research and gather information from a variety of sources. Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; 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. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.

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 audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.

Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.

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.

Required Skills and Experience

Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Social Communication, Journalism, or related fields. A first level university degree with a relevant combination of academic qualifications and experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

At least four years of experience in public communication, international broadcasting or related area.

LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For the post advertised, fluency in oral and written English is required. Total fluency (written and oral) of Portuguese is required. Knowledge of another official United Nations language is an advantage.