Advocacy & Communications Advisor (Retainer)

Job Description

Dutystation: Home based

Functional responsibilities

Purpose and Scope

The role will provide short term cover and support to the RBM communications function .The incumbent as assigned will advise on the Secretariat’s work in communication and advocacy areas, through facilitation and coordination of high-level strategic engagement with key stakeholders. The incumbent is expected to be willing and able to travel up to 30% of their time.

This role will collaborate internally with relevant units and focal points within the existing RBM team as well as external stakeholders,

High-level Strategic support

Within delegated authority, the incumbent in close collaboration with the Communications and Advocacy team is responsible for the following:

• Strategic Communications & Messaging:

  • Develop and implement communication strategies aligned with RBM’s mission and priorities.

  • Craft key messages tailored to diverse audiences (governments, donors, private sector, media, and the public).

• Media & Public Relations:

  • Build and maintain relationships with media outlets to amplify RBM’s impact.

  • Draft press releases, op-eds, and coordinate interviews with RBM leadership.

  • Monitor media coverage related to malaria and RBM’s activities.

• Digital & Social Media Management:

  • Oversee RBM’s social media presence, ensuring engaging and impactful content.

  • Develop and manage digital campaigns, live events, and website content updates.

  • Track analytics to optimize reach and engagement.

• Advocacy & Stakeholder Engagement:

  • Support communication efforts for high-level events, campaigns, and policy initiatives.

  • Develop materials (briefs, reports, speeches, and presentations) for senior leadership.

  • Coordinate with partner organizations to align messaging and outreach.

• Internal & Crisis Communications:

  • Provide internal communication support for RBM Secretariat and partners.

  • Support crisis communication strategies when necessary.

Education/Experience/Language requirements

Education

• An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent degree) in international relations, political science, management, or other relevant field is required.
• A first-level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree

Experience

Required

• A minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible communications and advocacy experience at regional or global level is required

• Within the 7 years prerequisite, at least 5 years working experience at the senior management and/or leadership level is essential.

• 5 years of experience in the public health sector is required

• Documented high-level advocacy or other experience with national and health-sector leaders is required.

• Experience negotiating with diverse stakeholders is required

• Proven experience in developing and implementing successful communication strategies is required

• Knowledge of digital marketing and social media platforms is required

Desirable

• Experience working in challenging and politically complex situations.

• Experience in multi-stakeholder partnerships management and engagement.

• Experience managing and motivating senior staff located in different geographical locations.

• Experience in international development related to malaria is preferred

• Demonstrated leadership experience in a multicultural and collaborative environment.

• Strong understanding of malaria-related issues and the global health landscape.

Languages

• Full working knowledge of English is essential.
• Working knowledge of French, Spanish or another UN language is an asset.

About the Organization

TOGETHER, WE BUILD THE FUTURE

UNOPS – an operational arm of the United Nations – supports the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by successfully implementing its partners’ peacebuilding, humanitarian and development projects around the world.

Our mission is to help people build better lives and countries achieve peace and sustainable development.

We are proud of our people and embrace diversity and are committed to equal employment opportunities. Our workforce brings together approximately 160 nationalities, represented by over 5,000 UNOPS personnel as well as some 7,800 personnel recruited on behalf of our partners. Spread across 80 countries from a range of backgrounds, and languages and have different gender identities, sexual orientations, and abilities.

We encourage women and candidates from underrepresented groups in UNOPS to apply. These include candidates from racialized and/or indigenous groups, members of minority gender identities and sexual orientations, and people with disabilities.