Job Vacancies Department of Public Information, May 2011

Org. Setting and Reporting
This position is located in the Advocacy and Special Events Cluster in the Outreach Division of the Department of Public Information, and the incumbent reports to the Chief of the Cluster.

Responsibilities
Within delegated authority the Public Information Officer is responsible for the following duties:
1. Initiates, develops and leads projects related to the Creative Community Outreach Initiative (CCOI), which promotes the inclusion of United Nations issues or locations in film and television productions;
2. Develops relationships with key constituencies and partners in the media and entertainment field, Reviews scripts and project proposals to determine whether proposed projects are appropriate and feasible;
3. Facilitates on-location film and television shoots at United Nations Headquarters, including advising on timing and logistics, negotiating with outside creative community partners and liaising with other offices to coordinate practical aspects;
4. Prepares or oversees the preparation of communication products or events designed to encourage and facilitate CCOI projects;
5. Initiates, develops and leads projects related to the Messengers of Peace programme, including coordinating participation of UN Messengers of Peace and Goodwill Ambassadors in special events;
6. Liaises with other UN offices, including the Executive Office of the Secretary-General and UN-system programmes and organizations, to coordinate the appointment of Goodwill Ambassadors;
7. Provides guidance to other UN offices and agencies on film and television collaborations and best practices regarding Goodwill Ambassadors;
8. Cultivates and maintains relationships with other UN offices, Permanent Missions, media organizations, professional associations, NGOs and other partners, including in the private sector, in planning and implementing projects related to these two programmes;
9. Supervises the work of junior staff.

Competencies
Professionalism:
- Knowledge of different aspects of public information and communication and ability to cultivate productive relationships.
- Knowledge of international media environment including television, feature films and documentaries.
- Familiarity with rules, regulations and policies on the use of UN name and premises.
- Demonstrated ability to coordinate complex tasks among several entities.
- Evidence of ability to work under pressure and find creative solutions to practical challenges.
- Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competencies 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.

Communication:
-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 the audience
-Demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed

Planning & Organizing:
-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

Education
Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism or related area. A first-level university degree in combination with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Work Experience
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in public information, journalism or related field. Experience working with external media is required. Experience in coordinating among multiple stakeholders is desirable.

Languages
English and French are working languages of the UN Secretariat. Fluency in English (both oral and written) is required; knowledge of the other is desirable. Knowledge of another UN official language is an advantage.

United Nations Considerations
The United Nations shall place no restrictions on the eligibility of men and women to participate in any capacity and under conditions of equality in its principal and subsidiary organs. (Charter of the United Nations – Chapter 3, article 8). The United Nations Secretariat is a non-smoking environment.

Assessment Method
A written substantive assessment and/or competency-based interview will be administered.

Special Notice
Staff members are subject to the authority of the Secretary-General and to assignment by him or her. In this context, all staff are expected to move periodically to new functions in their careers In accordance with established rules and procedures.

No Fee
THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.