Background

Under the guidance and direct supervision of the ARR, Programs, the Communications Officer will develop and support UNDP-CO’s communications strategy; provides strategic/operational advice to the UNDP-CO on outreach, communications and publication strategies, and promote UNDP’s work in PNG. The Communications Offices will be responsible for UNDP CO’s outreach and communications efforts and works closely with the Resident Coordinators Office. The Communications Specialist will also work in close collaboration with programs, as well as Government officials, media, donors and civil societies. 

Duties and Responsibilities

Summary of key functions:

• Planning and implementation of internal and external strategies for communications and outreach;
• Updating and maintenance of the UNDP, CO website and other communications vehicles, including social media;
• Media and public information liaison for the UNDP, CO.
  

Planning and implementation of internal and external strategies for communications and outreach:

• Assess communications needs and priorities for the UNDP, CO;
• Develop a communications and outreach strategy for the UNDP CO’s (in line with the  UNDP's corporate communications strategy);
• Support UNDP CO’s outreach activities such as roundtables, panel discussions, and joint events;
• Develop and maintain contacts with government officials, NGOs, journalists and other key stakeholders and identify targets of opportunity and methods to communicate with these agencies/institutions; and
• Design and maintain outreach list and maintain contact with key stakeholders.
  

Updating and maintenance of the UNDP, PNG web site, and other communications vehicles:

• Maintain and regularly update UNDP, PNG web site;
• Prepare web content and newsletters for various UNDP programs/projects in PNG ; and
• Development and dissemination of advocacy materials pertaining to UNDP’s work in PNG.
  

Media and public information liaison for UNDP, CO:

• Development and maintenance of media contacts and lists;
• Draft and distribute media advisories, news releases and other materials and design and organize media events, as appropriate, to promote activities of the UNDP, CO;
• Advise and assist UNDP, CO colleagues to include media outreach activities such as interviews or press briefings;
• Provide effective and timely responses to public information inquiries; and
• Provide timely strategic advice and creative solutions for dealing with sensitive   communications issues and stories.
  

Competencies

• Strong inter and intra personal skills for all forms of communication;
• commitment to team work and be able to work in a multi discipline/cultural environment ;
• Outstanding communication, networking and negotiation skills;
• Excellent computer skills and experience in preparing and maintaining website materials;
• Demonstrated ability to work with minimum supervision ,be dynamic, proactive and creative;
• Understanding of key development issues in PNG;
• Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability;
• Builds strong relationships with internal and external actors;
• Demonstrates openness to change and ability to manage complexities; and
• Responds positively to critical feedback and differing points of view.

Required Skills and Experience

Education:

• University degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or relevant discipline is desirable;
• Masters degree in the required field would be an advantage.

Experience:

• Minimum 3 years of relevant work experience in public relations, communications or advocacy;
• Familiar with development issues at the global, regional and national;
• Excellent inter/intra personal and communication skills and demonstrated experience in GoPNG procedures;
• Demonstrated ability to work with minimum supervision;
• Excellent IT knowledge  and experience in preparing and maintaining website materials;
  

Language Requirements:

• Fluency in written/oral Tok Pisin and English.