Background

Under the guidance and direct supervision of the Programme Specialist/ Head, Communication Junior Consultant supports the formulation and implementation of the communications and advocacy strategies to increase the standing and awareness of UNDP with partners, the media and the public. The Communication Junior Consultant promotes a client-oriented approach in UNDP. The Communication Junior Consultant works in close collaboration with the Management Support and Business Development, Programme and Operations teams in the CO, staff of other UN Agencies, UNDP HQs staff (Communications Office) and Regional Communications Advisor, Government officials, media, multilateral and bilateral donors and civil society. A communications strategy tightly linked to program priorities helps position the Country Office in key development markets as a leader in ways that boost demand for various service lines and increase overall business opportunities.

Duties and Responsibilities

Support the planning and design of activities and initiative for UNDP communications, advocacy and outreach initiatives in line with the UNDP communication strategy

Plan, elaborate and execute activities in line with the UNDP communication strategy additionally to develop and implement the UNDP communication strategy. Support the UNDP team in creating public awareness on the effectiveness and impact of the UNDP’s work in Namibia; Support the maintenance and updating of the UNDP website and social media pages; and preparation of press releases, talking points, speeches, web content, articles and general correspondence, among others. Ensuring that UNDP meets transparency in line with communication for development and IATI; and lead preparation of the Annual Reports. Identify and develop storylines for publications and substantive articles to be published on web and in other media.

Support the UNDP Resident Representative in her capacity as spokesperson of the UNDP in Namibia

Draft background notes, speeches and talking points for public appearances. Support outreach activities with press and other communication target groups. Draft and disseminate common press releases commemorating international days and other major events. Lead the preparation of the UN days in line with the UNCG annual calendar and division of responsibilities. 

Editor of the UNDP website to ensure credible and reliable running and maintenance

Enhance UNDP Namibia’s media and online presence and information dissemination by upgrading the quality and use of existing media/information platforms (webpage, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, press releases, articles, video documentaries, etc.); Support the migration of the UN website in terms of design, content and raise the public awareness of the site. Draft and or review the content for the website, ensuring consistency of the materials.

Facilitation of knowledge building and knowledge sharing within the UNDP in Namibia, and sister Agencies

Analyze and support monitoring of communication activities and assessment of impacts and results. Effectively respond to inquiries for information material and knowledge products. Advocate and promote UNDP mandate, mission and purpose in the country. Identify and synthesize best practices and lessons learned directly linked to programme country goals and activities.

Competencies

Core Values/Guiding Principles: Integrity:  Demonstrate consistency in upholding and promoting the values of the UN in actions and decisions, in line with the UN Code of Conduct. Professionalism: Demonstrate professional competence and expert knowledge of the pertinent substantive areas of work.

Cultural sensitivity and valuing diversity: Demonstrate an appreciation of the multicultural nature of the organization and the diversity of its staff; demonstrate an international outlook, appreciating difference in values and learning from cultural diversity.

Managing Relationships: Working in teams: Promotes teamwork and harmony, collaborating with team members integrating others’ ideas into his/her thinking. Leverages the different experiences and expertise of members to achieve better, more innovative outcomes. Communicating information and ideas: Encourages open communication in the team, demonstrating the ability to see issues and situations from team members’ perspective.  Frankly expresses ideas and concerns and encourages dialogue to develop an optimal solution without jeopardizing rapport with colleagues. Conflict and self-management: Surfaces conflicts and addresses them, proactively acknowledging feelings and views of all sides and redirecting energy towards a mutually acceptable solution. Creates a climate of enthusiasm and flexibility where people feel encouraged to be innovative and give their best.

Personal Leadership and Effectiveness: Results orientation commitment to excellence: Ensures that work methods and processes are effective and appropriate for the achievement of desired results and seeks ways to maximize the efficient use of resources. Redirects staff activities to ensure timely completion of workplan using tact and sensitivity. Appropriate and transparent decision-making: Makes decisions in a fair, transparent and expeditious manner in light of available information and commits to a position.

Required Skills and Experience

Education:

  • University degree in communications, journalism, public relations, publishing or related fields.

Experience:

  • 3 years-experience in public relations, communications and advocacy.
  • In depth knowledge of the local and international media represented in Namibia.
  • Experience using Adobe Suite for design purposes, specifically Photoshop and InDesign.
  • Experience using Adobe CQ5 software for website editing and maintenance
  • Understanding of development paradigms and socio-political situation of Namibia and the sub-region.
  • International experience an asset, especially with the United Nations System, familiarity with the SDGs and other global initiatives.
  • Good knowledge of the UN system and familiarity with UNDP communication needs.
  • Substantive experience and record of accomplishment in gender equality and women's empowerment issues at policy and programming level;
  • Experience with implementing gender mainstreaming agendas across a variety of sectors, including experience gender mainstreaming in governmental bodies;
  • Experience working with the UN in development and humanitarian contexts;
  • Experience working with targeted beneficiaries and groups, such as women’s movements, vulnerable groups; and civil society and familiarity with human rights organizations and networks in the country, region and global.

Language Requirements:

  • Fluency in written and spoken English. 

Apllication Method