Communication Officer

BACKGROUND

The Communication Officer will be responsible for supporting the organization's communication activities by creating and disseminating content, managing media relations, and maintaining the organization's website and social media platforms. The Communication Officer will work closely with the Head of Corporate and Communication Department and other staff members to ensure that the organization's message is consistent and effective. This position will initially be on a fixed-term basis, with the possibility to extend.

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Communications Officer will carry out the following tasks:

• Contribute in developing communication strategies, methods and materials to support and promote the programme, its activities and mission to external audiences and IUCN members;
• Develop and produce high-quality content, such as press releases, articles, interviews and technical publications, and promote and disseminate these to specific professional audiences, to IUCN members and to the media;
• Organize events with relevance to the programme and perform general public relations;
• Maintain regular contact with printers, designers, text writers, photographers, journalists and other relevant groups;
• Manage the programme's website(s) and social media platforms, including updating content and responding to comments and inquiries;
• Monitor media coverage and manage relationships with journalists and other media professionals to ensure positive and accurate coverage of the organization;
• Provide guidance and support to staff members on communication issues, including branding, messaging, and media relations;
• Ensure that all communication activities adhere to the organization's policies and procedures and meet high standards of quality, accuracy, and ethics.

Programme development

• Develop and co-ordinate implementation of the communication component in the MED portfolio projects, including fundraising for such activities, to promote the MED Programme's mission and its visibility and influence;
• Develop and maintain a communication consultant and journalists network to service and collaborate with the Mediterranean programme;
• Maintain information management systems and facilities to enable effective communications.

Linkages within the global Secretariat

Set-up and maintain mechanisms for internal communication within the IUCN Secretariat at Gland and in regions, to foster coordination, synergies, and sharing of information.

Programme management

Provide input and contribute in other tasks related to planning, finance, administration and implementation of the MED Programme, as requested by the Director, to contribute to its effective management.

REQUIREMENTS

• Advanced Degree in Communications or Social Sciences, Management, Tourism, Sustainable Development, International Relations or similar field;
• At least five years of background and/or experience working in communication, project implementation, or any other related field. Experience with EU funds and projects will be an asset;
• Fluency in written and spoken English; Spanish/French will be an asset;
• Strong networking and inter-personal skills;
• Professional experience working with a wide range of stakeholders, including government, civil society and the private sector is desirable;
• Excellent communication, facilitation and negotiation skills;
• Knowledge and understanding of IUCN vision, mission and objectives;
• Team and client oriented. Ability to manage different requests, external and internal ones;
• Ability to manage external consultants and junior staff under his/her supervision;
• Strategic thinking and ability to see the big picture in order to help improving the Centre's visibility;
• Proven ability to create high-quality content for a variety of communication channels, including print, online, and multimedia;
• Experience in media relations and managing relationships with journalists and other media professionals;
• Familiarity with website management and social media platforms, including best practices for content creation and engagement;
• Knowledge of international development issues and the role of civil society organizations in addressing these issues is an asset;
• Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

SALARY

The minimum gross annual salary for this position is EUR 40'480. While this is an indicative amount effective as of the current date, changes may occur as per IUCN's compensation practices without prior notice. The same applies to other organisations hosted by IUCN.

APPLICATIONS

Applicants are requested to apply online through the HR Management System, by opening the vacancy announcement and pressing the "Apply" button. Applicants will be asked to create an account and submit their profile information. Applications will not be accepted after the closing date. The vacancy closes at midnight, Swiss time (GMT+1 / GMT+2 during Daylight Saving Time, DST). Please note that only selected applicants will be personally contacted for interviews.