Communications Officer

Job Description

Title: Communications Officer

Project: UNOPS Myanmar

Duty station: Yangon, Myanmar

Section/Unit: 3PI

Post Level: International Individual Contract Agreement (IICA-1)

Duration: On going (possible extension subject to fund availability and satisfactory performance)

Supervisor: Head of Programme & Partnerships

1. Background Information – UNOPS Myanmar

The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) is an operational arm of the United Nations, supporting the successful implementation of its partners’ peacebuilding, humanitarian and development projects around the world. UNOPS supports partners to build a better future by providing services that increase the efficiency, effectiveness and sustainability of peace building, humanitarian and development projects. Mandated as a central resource of the United Nations, UNOPS provides sustainable project management, procurement and infrastructure services to a wide range of governments, donors and United Nations organizations.

Myanmar is one of UNOPS’ leading offices in Asia, acting as fund manager for three of the largest development programmes in the country, namely the Three Millennium Development Goal Fund (3MDG), the Livelihood and Food Security Fund (LIFT) and the Joint Peace Fund (JPF). In addition, UNOPS is Principal Recipient for the Global Fund in Myanmar and for the Global Fund’s regional artemisinin-resistance initiative targeting drug resistant malaria in the greater Mekong sub-region. UNOPS provides procurement, infrastructure and project management services to a wide range of organizations in the country, including the Government of Myanmar, international development partners, other UN agencies, NGOs and INGOs. UNOPS plays a critical role in ensuring that the quality of services provided to its partners meets stringent requirements of speed, efficiency and cost effectiveness.

1. Background Information – Job Specific

UNOPS Myanmar Operation Centre (MMOC) counts with specific communications teams dedicated to the different funds/programmes and this position will concentrate on the Director’s office and some projects’ needs while ensuring the required coordination and collaboration with other colleagues.

The position is under the direct supervision of the Head of Programme & Partnerships and works in close collaboration with project teams in procurement, infrastructure and project management services. He/she works in accordance with UNOPS policies, procedures and practices.

Key functions:

• Review and follow actions required under MMOC Stakeholder engagement and Communications strategy;
• Produce information materials to strengthen awareness of the work of UNOPS in Myanmar;
• Track, research and analyze information on assigned topics/issues; gather information from diverse sources and help to assess news value and/or potential impact;
• Evaluate the effectiveness of information campaigns
• Draft/compile a specific type or types (e.g. print, broadcast, etc.) of information communications products for target audiences including press releases, media packets and reports, brochures, briefings, video clips, newsletters, website, etc.;
• Organize the production and distribution of MMOC projects/programmes related information material;
• Support communications plan activities under each project for greater visibility, ensuring adequate tools and innovative approaches are used;
• In consultation with the supervisor and other relevant parties, identify and propose information opportunities, activities and approaches, taking into account the situation/topic and target audience;
• Identify key contacts/constituencies and opportunities for strategic partnerships and maintain working relationships with the same;
• Organize or participate in the organization of conferences, seminars, press briefing, interviews, etc.; prepare briefing materials for senior officials prior to their participation in such events;
• Respond to a variety of inquiries and information requests internally and externally; prepare related correspondence;
• Ensure effective and efficient functioning of MMOC communications activities in full confidentiality in all aspects of assignment, maintenance of protocol procedures, management of information flow and follow-up on deadlines and commitments made;
• Coordinate and participate in MMOC communications group;
• Supervise other communications colleagues setting up work plans and supporting growth, through delegation exposure or coaching;
• Follow up on deadline, commitments made, actions taken and coordination of collection and submission of the reports, presentations/etc. to supervisor and management;
• Draft routine correspondence, interoffice circulars, general briefing notes, documents, reports, and minutes of meetings when requested;
• Prepare spreadsheets, database files, presentation slides/power points, and tables ensuring appropriate style and accuracy if information;
• Prepare high quality briefing materials for appointments, meetings, missions, etc.; and,
• Perform other duties as assigned.

1. Qualifications and Experience

1. Education

• Master degree in communication, media studies, journalism, or related field is required.
• A Bachelor’s degree with additional two years of similar experience is considered as equivalent.

1. Work experience

• Minimum 2 years of experience in development and implementation of communications strategies, external relations and/or other communication roles is required.
• Experience in a development country is required.
• Experience in South-East Asia would be an asset.
• Proven ability to write excellent reports and briefs is highly preferred.
• Excellent presentation skills would be an asset.

1. Language Requirement

• Fluency in both written and spoken English is required.

1. UNOPS Core Competencies

Treats all individuals with respect; responds sensitively to differences and encourages others to do the same. Upholds organizational and ethical norms. Maintains high standards of trustworthiness. Role model for diversity and inclusion.

Acts as a positive role model contributing to the team spirit. Collaborates and supports the development of others. Acts as positive leadership role model, motivates, directs and inspires others to succeed, utilizing appropriate leadership styles.

Demonstrates understanding of the impact of own role on all partners and always puts the end beneficiary first. Builds and maintains strong external relationships and is a competent partner for others (if relevant to the role).

Efficiently establishes an appropriate course of action for self and/or others to accomplish a goal. Actions lead to total task accomplishment through concern for quality in all areas. Sees opportunities and takes the initiative to act on them. Understands that responsible use of resources maximizes our impact on our beneficiaries.

Open to change and flexible in a fast paced environment. Effectively adapts own approach to suit changing circumstances or requirements. Reflects on experiences and modifies own behavior. Performance is consistent, even under pressure. Always pursues continuous improvements.

Evaluates data and courses of action to reach logical, pragmatic decisions. Takes an unbiased, rational approach with calculated risks. Applies innovation and creativity to problem-solving.

Expresses ideas or facts in a clear, concise and open manner. Communication indicates a consideration for the feelings and needs of others. Actively listens and proactively shares knowledge. Handles conflict effectively, by overcoming differences of opinion and finding common ground.

About the Organization

UNOPS is an operational arm of the United Nations, supporting the successful implementation of its partners’ peacebuilding, humanitarian and development projects around the world. Our mission is to help people build better lives and countries achieve sustainable development.

UNOPS areas of expertise cover infrastructure, procurement, project management, financial management and human resources.

Working with us

UNOPS offers short- and long-term work opportunities in diverse and challenging environments across the globe. We are looking for creative, results-focused professionals with skills in a range of disciplines.

Diversity

With over 4,000 UNOPS personnel and approximately 7,000 personnel recruited on behalf of UNOPS partners spread across 80 countries, our workforce represents a wide range of nationalities and cultures. We promote a balanced, diverse workforce — a strength that helps us better understand and address our partners’ needs, and continually strive to improve our gender balance through initiatives and policies that encourage recruitment of qualified female candidates.

Work life harmonization

UNOPS values its people and recognizes the importance of balancing professional and personal demands.

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