Communications Officer – Writer and Media Engagement

<!–

Description

–>

UNDP India’s new Country Programme (2023-2027) builds on our prior work and aims to provide an integrated approach to development solutions in three strategic portfolios:  

• Strong, accountable and evidence-led institutions for accelerated achievement of the SDGs.
• Enhanced economic opportunities and social protection to reduce inequality, with a focus on the marginalized.
• Climate-smart solutions, sustainable ecosystems and resilient development for reduced vulnerability.

South-South cooperation, gender equality and social inclusion are promoted across the pillars. The programme is supported by a framework of renewed partnerships and blended finance solutions, strategic innovation and accelerator labs, and data and digital architecture.

You are invited to join a team of future-smart development professionals to support India in achieving the national and globally agreed goals. As part of the UNDP team, your focus will be to work with diverse stakeholders to find country-specific solutions that lead to sustainable development and reach those furthest behind first.

The Communications Officer – Writer and Media Engagement will work directly under the supervision of the Head of Communications and Partnerships in the communications and partnerships unit. Situated at the heart of UNDP’s operations in India, the Communications and Partnerships unit is tasked with the crucial job of crafting compelling narratives, promoting thought leadership and showcasing UNDP’s transformative work and support to the Government and the people of India. It employs a variety of modern communication tools and strategies, including digital media, public and media relations, and content creation, to engage stakeholders and build public awareness about the sustainable development goals (SDGs). Additionally, the unit actively seeks and nurtures strategic partnerships with the private sector, media and development agencies. These collaborations are essential for mobilizing resources, sharing knowledge, and scaling successful practices that drive social and economic progress.

Duties and Responsibilities

• The Communications Officer – Writer and Media Engagement will be responsible for crafting high-quality content and developing strong media relationships to enhance the visibility and impact of UNDP’s initiatives. This role requires excellent writing skills, a strategic mindset, and the ability to effectively engage with both local and international media outlets. They will also work on providing communications support to regional offices, especially in crafting compelling human interest stories, scripts and thematic narratives.
• The Communications Officer – Writer and Media Engagement will work closely with the Head of Communications and Partnerships Unit to undertake the following tasks: 

Content Creation and Quality Assurance:

• Develop audience-centric and web-friendly human-interest stories and blogs on UNDP’s initiatives and key achievements from the field.
• Develop and write clear, compelling content for media, including media briefs, press releases, feature articles, op-eds, interviews and more. 
• Write and finalise talking points, speeches, briefing notes, foreword and any other external communication material for senior management. 
• Create and review materials for internal and external communication, including newsletter, portfolio factsheets, brochure and any other printed/published material.   
• Collaborate with different departments to translate complex development themes into accessible and engaging narratives – for print and web.
• Undertake quality assurance of all publications, reports, and any other published material and ensure high quality, reader-friendly products. 
• Ensure all content aligns with UNDP’s mission, strategic goals, and communication guidelines.

Media Relations:

• Build and maintain relationships with journalists and media outlets to increase coverage of UNDP’s projects and initiatives.
• Respond to media inquiries and coordinate interviews between UNDP spokespersons and journalists.
• Monitor media coverage and report on media engagement results.

Strategic Communications:

• Assist in the development of the overall communications strategy, focusing on enhancing media engagement and state/regional outreach.
• Providing communication support to regional/state offices – including drafting stories, scripts, pitch decks, and thematic narratives. 
• Preparing key materials and content for strategic policy and public advocacy. 
• Support campaign development, including mapping key opportunities for media engagement  – traditional and new. 
• Maintain networks and knowledge assets for leveraging visibility – internal and external and publicity. 
• Promote awareness of UNDP’s work internally and externally through dissemination of information and materials.

Event Coordination:

• Plan and execute media events, such as press conferences and roundtable discussions.
• Prepare briefing materials and talking points for UNDP representatives participating in public and media events.

Training and Support:

• Provide guidance and support to UNDP staff on media interaction and communication best practices.
• Organize training sessions on writing, storytelling and media engagement techniques. 
• The incumbent performs other duties within their functional profile as deemed necessary for the efficient functioning of the Office and the Organization.

Required Skills and Experience

 Education:

• Advanced University Degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Communications, Journalism, International Relations, or related field is required or
• A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in the areas mentioned above, in combination with an additional two years of qualifying experience will be given due consideration in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Experience:

• Minimum 2 years (with Master’s degree) or 4 years (with Bachelor´s degree) of relevant experience at the national or international level in communications, media relations, advertising, journalism or related field. 
• Proven track record of writing high-quality, impactful content.
• Strong network of media contacts and experience in engaging with the press.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English. 
• Ability to work in a fast-paced international environment and manage multiple priorities. 
• Prior work experience in the UN, international and multilateral organization and similar organizations. 
• Prior experience in writing for media – articles and op-eds. 
• Previous experience in developing and implementing publications strategies. 

Required Languages:

• Fluency in English and Hindi is required.

Source: https://estm.fa.em2.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_1/requisitions/job/19442

<!—

<!–

–>