Historique

Under the supervision of the Head/Senior Public Information Officer, the incumbent supports the implementation of public information programs to publicize priority issues and/or major events. The support provided to the HC focuses on the following three sets of activities:

• Preparedness;
• Support to emergency response;
• Development of national humanitarian information coordination networks.

For this purpose, OCHA works with the HC and the Humanitarian Country Team (HCT), national and local authorities when appropriate and relevant humanitarian partners in the country.

Devoirs et responsabilités

Under the overall supervision of the Head of the Office and Deputy Head of Office and Public Information Officer International under the day-to-day guidance of the, the incumbent is expected to perform the following tasks:

• Contribute to the implementation of public information programs to publicize priority issues and/or major events, to include drafting public information strategies, coordinating efforts, monitoring and reporting on progress, taking appropriate follow-up action, and analyzing the outcome;
• Conduct comprehensive monitoring of relevant news, current events, public opinion from a broad scope of sources (English and Arabic) - print, TV, electronic, internet, etc. - identify issues and trends, and advise Chief/Senior of Public Information Officer on appropriate action/responses required;
• Promote media coverage of priority issues and/or major events by arranging press briefings/interviews, disseminating materials and consulting with press on approach/story angles and other information requests, undertaking appropriate follow-up action and analyzing and reporting on the impact of coverage;
• Assist in production of information communications products (e.g. press kits, press releases, feature articles, backgrounders, audio-visual materials and other print/web products) and development of information campaigns, including proposing topics, undertaking research, determining appropriate medium and target audience, preparing production plans, writing drafts, obtaining clearances and finalizing texts, editing copy, and coordinating design approval, printing procedures and distribution;
• Ensure that social media platforms are updated daily and that programmes and activities are properly reflected through social media platforms;
• Initiate and sustain professional relationships with key constituencies;
• Act as focal point on specific issues, monitoring and reporting on developments, responding to inquiries, etc.;
• Assist in the day-to-day operation of the Public Information Office;
• Perform other duties as required.

Work implies frequent interaction with the following:

• DHoO and PIO (international) other Humanitarian Affairs Officer;
• UN agencies;
• International and national NGOs;
• Relevant government departments.

Impact of Results:

Assist the Regional Humanitarian Coordination’s Office in identifying significant humanitarian issues Develop well-reasoned, innovative suggestions and approaches to problem resolution.  Help meet organizational objectives and provide sound analytical inputs and advice with respect to coordination of humanitarian action.

Compétences

Professionalism:

• Proven analytical skills: ability to conduct independent research and analysis, identify issues, and recommend appropriate solutions;
•  Very good knowledge of the program of assignment, including the cultural, political and economic dimensions;
• Ability to relate humanitarian affairs issues and perspectives, including gender, social-economic issues;
• Strong negotiation skills: ability to lead and gain assistance of others in a team endeavor, and to articulate coherent arguments to reach agreement;
• Ability to work under extreme pressure, on occasion in a highly stressful environment;
• Very good knowledge of institutional mandates, policies and guidelines pertaining to humanitarian affairs and sound knowledge of the institutions of the UN system. 

Judgment and Decision-making:

• Apply sound judgment to resolve a range of issues/ problems. 

Planning and Organizing:

• Proven ability to plan and organize, establish priorities, manage and monitor work plans, coordinate competing demands, and work to tight deadlines. 

Technological Awareness:

• Solid computer skills, including proficiency in word processing, spreadsheet applications, and relevant software packages, including e-mail.

Communication:

• Proven ability to write in a clear and concise manner and to communicate effectively; including
• Ability to prepare reports and conduct presentations, articulating options concisely, conveying maximum information, making and defending recommendations.

Teamwork:

• Strong interpersonal skills;including
• Ability to operate effectively across organizational boundaries;
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relations with people in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity.

Qualifications et expériences requises

Education:

• Master's degree in communication, journalism, public relations or related field.

Experience:                                                                                                                                            

• 2 years of relevant in public information, journalism or related field. Experience in the region would be an asset. Knowledge about the UN and RC systems would be an advantage;
• Experience in the usage of computers and office software packages, experience in handling of web based management systems;
• Good computer skills and knowledge of social media.

Language Requirements:

• Fluency in oral and written Arabic and English is required;
• Knowledge of another official UN language will be an advantage.

Female candidates are encouraged to apply.