WFP: Communications Officer – Damascus

JOB PURPOSE:

To implement the communications plan by supporting and delivering a range of communications activities, providing research and analysis, and prioritising effectively.

The incumbent will report to the Head of the External Relations and Partnerships unit.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES (not all-inclusive, within delegated authority):

Implement country specific communication work plans designed to maintain and enhance the visibility and reputation of WFP, as well as support fundraising activities, ensuring alignment with overall communications and WFP strategies.
Contribute to communications through good research, analysis of assigned area of work and timely preparation and distribution of communication, visibility and information products to target audience(s).
Maintain a contact list of journalists and media outlets and support the flow of news/information about WFP’s work to the media, in order to support regular and appropriate communications.
Prepare media messages, talking points for media and press releases as required.
Conduct media monitoring and analysis to provide colleagues with an overview of humanitarian issues in Syria.
Support the social media plan by developing social media content, and utilizing platforms, networks and partners to enhance coverage and support of WFP’s activities.
Monitor and analyse traditional and social media to inform the development and/or evaluation of communication activities and strategies.
Generate donor specific visibility content including, text, photos, videos and audio for use across a range of integrated online platforms, in order to support global and country fund-raising activities, ensuring consistency with corporate messages.
Collate outreach data contribute to the preparation of accurate and timely reports, Support communications activities that enable informed decision making and ensures consistency of information presented to the media and other stakeholders.
Develop and implement a training plan for Communications Focal Points in all field offices.
Support capacity building of WFP staff on all aspects of communication, provides advice and guidance within area and level of expertise, in order to ensure that all activities meet desired standards of consistency, quality and impact.
Liaise and interact with WFP staff and external counterparts to support aligned activities and a coherent approach to communications within WFP.
Follow standard emergency preparedness practices at the onset of a crisis.
Other as required.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

Education:
Advanced University degree in Journalism, International Relations, Public Relations, Communications or other relevant field, or First University degree with additional years of related work experience and/or trainings/courses.

Experience:
Three years of post-graduate relevant professional experience with a Master’s degree, or five years of post-graduate relevant professional experience with a Bachelor’s University Degree.

Languages:
Fluency (level C) in English and in Arabic.

DESIRED EXPERIENCES FOR ENTRY INTO THE ROLE:

Has gained experience in utilising specialist communications techniques to enhance functional outputs.
Has provided direction and instruction to more junior staff members within area of expertise.
Has experience in producing written communications materials, including stories, press releases and external messages.
Has experience in photography and videography and editing these materials for publication.

Level of Education: Bachelor Degree

Work Hours: 8

Experience in Months: No requirements