Communications Manager – Brand and Design (Data Visualization and Innovative Design Lead)

Under the supervision of the Senior Portfolio Manager and and in close collaboration with the Innovation Cell Programme Manager, the incumbent will be responsible for the following duties:  

1. Graphic Design and Visual Storytelling:

   1. Leading the design of a wide range of visual communication materials, both in digital and print formats.

   2. Crafting compelling narratives through graphics, infographics, and multimedia content – particular focus on data visualization.

   3. Ensuring that visual designs align with the ethos and strategic objectives of the DPPA’s Innovation Cell.

2. Visual Design Thinking and Concept Development:

   1. Employing and overseeing the design thinking methodologies to conceptualize and develop innovative products and solutions.

   2. Collaboratively coordinate, advise, mentor and coach the team to ideate, prototype, and refine design concepts.

   3. Integrating user experience and interaction design principles into product development.

1. Lead the Facilitation of Design Thinking and Innovation Sessions

   1. Leading the brainstorming and innovation sessions using design thinking techniques (such as at the annual E-Analytics Training)

   2. Encouraging creative thinking and collaborative problem-solving within the team.

   3. Leading in documenting and visually representing the outcomes of brainstorming sessions.

2. Project Management and Collaboration

   1. Managing design projects from conception to delivery, ensuring adherence to timelines and quality standards.

   2. Leading the team to collaborate with various stakeholders, including UN departments, external partners,and creative agencies.

   3. Serving as the liaison between the Innovation Cell and external design communities, academia, and arts schools.

1. Research and Trend Analysis

   1. Staying abreast of the latest trends in data visualization, graphic design, design concepts relevant to technology and innovation for peace and security.

2. Capacity Building and Knowledge Sharing

   1. Sharing best practices and knowledge in visual design and innovation methodologies.

These tasks blend creative design skills with strategic thinking and collaborative facilitation, ensuring the visual lead plays a pivotal role in advancing DPPA’s innovation objectives.   

3. Monitoring and Progress Controls

The results of the services provided will be measured through a performance evaluation report (PER) including the following;

• Timely delivery of visual products aligning with strategic objectives on innovation (such as data visualization, innovation products and visual narratives).

• Timely delivery of capacity building and user-design workshops, including for E-Analytics.

• Provision of documentation on design thinking for innovation, including user-experience for innovation product development.

Education:

• Advanced University degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) preferably in design, arts or related areas.

• A first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree) in combination with an additional two (2) years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Work Experience:

Required:

• At least seven (7) years of progressively responsible work experience in design thinking, arts, creativity and/or innovation in the private sector or think tanks.

• Within the above seven years, at least two (2) years of design experience in the United Nations or other humanitarian organizations preferably working on peace and security issues.

Desired:

The following experience is optional. Candidates who do not have it are welcome to apply.

• Knowledge of publicly available humanitarian, development, and political data sources is a plus.

• Capable of presenting to diverse audiences.

• Web development skills are advantageous.

• Adaptability and versatility

• Entrepreneurial, self-motivated approach

• Ability to excel in both start-up environments and large bureaucratic settings.

• Resilience in challenging political and organizational contexts.

• Proficiency in visual art and graphic design (including print, web, and motion design).

• Illustration/sketching skills.

• Deep understanding of human-centered design principles.

• Proven ability to transform complex information into clear and impactful visual products.

• Skill in selecting the most effective mediums for storytelling.

• Experience with data visualization.

Language:

• Fluency in English (read, write, speak) is required. 

• Fluency in another UN language (read, write, speak) is an asset.