Location: United States of America (the) (New York)
Closing date: 31 Jul 2008
Job Description

Advocacy and Information Management Branch

Position Title and Level: Web Editor, P-3
Duty Station: New York
Duration: 6 months
Date of Entry: as soon as feasible
Supervisor: Web Advisor

United Nations Core Values: Integrity, Professionalism, Respect for diversity

I. Background

This post is located in the Office of the Chief, Advocacy and Information Management Branch, Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, New York. Within limits of delegated authority, and under the overall guidance and supervision of the Web Advisor and the Chief of the Branch, the incumbent provides substantive support for website and intranet content planning, development and management; and for internal communications in support of AIMB information management projects. Support applies both to the existing OCHA public website and intranet as well as to the new website and intranet being developed in the context of the OCHA portal project.

II. Responsibilities

Working closely with other members of the Office of the Chief and with members of the cross-functional information management teams, s/he will:

- Provide editorial support for online content, addressing style, structure, political sensitivities, accuracy, and all other relevant issues, as required for content produced within AIMB or elsewhere;
- Prepare a diverse range of information products for online use: write texts of varying lengths and for diverse purposes, select/source imagery and write captions, and structure products for appropriate use online;
- Provide advice to the Chief of Branch and Web Advisor, to help formulate strategies and implementation plans for online public information and for intranet content;
- Identify potential sources of content and focal points, liaise with them to clarify needs and plans, and provide advice on formulation and production of online content;
- Liaise with content owners (focal points) elsewhere in OCHA and among other UN organizations and partners, in order to communicate content plans, request or offer support for content development;
- Carry out research related to content production, identify appropriate sources or persons, arrange and conduct interviews, and document the foregoing;
- Propose multimedia products including format, content, storyboard, and provide advice on technology, create texts/scripts for multimedia implementation, and manage/oversee production;
- Support strategy planning, development, and implementation of internal communications efforts for AIMB information management projects;
- Identify and propose new opportunities, approaches and activities related to the implementation of project communications, and update and adjust project communications material and approach as the situation changes or as lessons are learned during implementation;
- Ensure that project team members and key staff in AIMB are up to speed, are fully briefed and support the project communications with complementary messages and activities;
- Participate in development of editorial guidelines for all online OCHA platforms, working within all relevant pre-existing United Nations guidelines and standards;
- Perform any other relevant tasks as requested by the Web Advisor or Chief of Branch.
III. Competencies

Professionalism - Thorough knowledge of and practical experience in the field of advocacy, communications and public information and ability to address a range of issues related to UN information requirements; proven ability to conceptualize, design and implement communications campaigns; in-depth knowledge of political trends, public attitudes, local conditions and developments; in-depth understanding of the UN system, organization and interrelationships; shows pride in work and in achievements; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; remains calm in stressful situations.

Communication – Excellent communication (written, spoken, public speaking and presentational) skills, including ability to produce a variety of written communications products and to articulate ideas in a clear, concise style; strong research and analytical skills, and ability to rapidly analyze and integrate diverse information from varied sources; experience in developing communications products for global audiences, including in online or electronic media; theoretical understanding of and practical experience in the discipline of internal communications; ability to copy edit; ability to present sensitive issues/positions.

Judgment/Decision-Making - Discretion and sound judgment in applying expertise to complex and/or sensitive issues, which are typically broad in scope.

Planning and organizing - Demonstrated planning and organizational skills and ability to coordinate the work of others, work to tight deadlines and handle multiple concurrent projects/activities.

Teamwork – Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to establish and maintain effective working relations in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity.

Technological Awareness – Fully proficient computer skills and knowledge of relevant software and related applications; experience with web publishing using a variety of different tools and platforms.

IV. Qualifications

Education - Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in communication, journalism, public relations, political or social science, international studies, or other related field; A first level university degree with a combination of relevant academic qualifications and extensive professional experience in journalism or emergency-related advocacy and public information work may be accepted in lieu of an advanced university degree.

Experience - Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible professional experience in advocacy, communications, public information, journalism and humanitarian affairs, or in a related area. Experience at the international level, experience with online media, experience in developing and/or crisis affected countries are desirable.

Languages - English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For the post advertised, fluency in oral and excellent drafting skills in English are required. Knowledge of a second official UN language is desirable.

Other Skills - Basic knowledge of OCHA institutional mandates, policies, and good knowledge of core UN guidelines related to humanitarian affairs.
Vacancies Contact
Please send cover letter and UN P11 form to Eric Mullerbeck (mullerbeck@un.org) and Clement Karege (karege@un.org)