Senior External Relations/Communications Assistant

at  United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees UNHCR

Hardship Level (not applicable for home-based)
H (no hardship)
Family Type (not applicable for home-based)
Family
Staff Member / Affiliate Type
CONTR Local Entry and Mid-Level Support
Target Start Date
2025-02-10
Deadline for Applications
February 1, 2025
Terms of Reference
MCO Australia is looking for an individual with experience in external relations – including communications, stakeholder management and outreach - to help implement its new external engagement strategy and support the day to day running of the unit.

Responsibilities include:

• Monitor traditional and social media, alerting senior staff to significant developments, and maintaining systems and processes. Assist in identifying opportunities to insert UNHCR’s messages into ongoing conversations, and moments for proactive communications.
• Maintain and update the MCO’s website.
• Conceptualise and develop digital content and manage platforms, including developing a posting plan and identify ways to maximise impact in line with strategic objectives.
• Help forge strategic partnerships with individuals and organisations who can further UNHCR messages and objectives.
• Coordinate local campaigns, such as for World Refugee Day.
• Draft and develop fact sheets, stories and other content to highlight the Office’s objectives and work.
• Draft correspondence, briefing materials and regular reports.
• Assist in the management of public enquiries, including the PI inbox, and other systems.
• Facilitate high level visits as required, including drafting briefing materials.
• Organise events and liaise with partners, refugees and local communities.
• Ensure information materials are available and up to date, organising printing for hard copy and visibility materials.
• Perform other duties as required.

Ideal candidate should have the following:

• At least 3-5 years’ experience in the external relations/communications field
• Technological awareness and proficiency in a range of online platforms and apps, including content management systems for websites, social media (Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn), graphics programs like Canva, Adobe Suite.
• High aptitude in use of Microsoft office software.
• Experience with media monitoring.
• Experience updating websites and in producing web and social media content.
• Excellent drafting skills covering a range of communications styles, audiences and content.
• Flexibility, adaptability, and ability to work autonomously and to collaborate with other team members. Proactive in problem-solving.
• Experience implementing communications strategies.
• Sound understanding of UNHCR’s mandate and its role as a United Nations agency; knowledge of and/or demonstrated interest in asylum or refugee protection.
• Fluency in English.

Desirable:

• Studies in communications, journalism, international relations or social science preferred.
• Previous experience in external relations/communications in humanitarian setting.
• Skills and experience in email marketing software, graphic design and/or multimedia editing.

Standard Job Description
Required Languages
English
,
,
Desired Languages
,
,
Additional Qualifications
Skills
Canva, Communication, Communications Strategy, Email Marketing, Graphic Design, Instagram, Proactive Approach, Social Media Content Management, Twitter
Education
Certifications
Work Experience
Communications, External Relations
Other information
This position doesn’t require a functional clearance
Home-Based
N

• Monitor traditional and social media, alerting senior staff to significant developments, and maintaining systems and processes. Assist in identifying opportunities to insert UNHCR’s messages into ongoing conversations, and moments for proactive communications.
• Maintain and update the MCO’s website.
• Conceptualise and develop digital content and manage platforms, including developing a posting plan and identify ways to maximise impact in line with strategic objectives.
• Help forge strategic partnerships with individuals and organisations who can further UNHCR messages and objectives.
• Coordinate local campaigns, such as for World Refugee Day.
• Draft and develop fact sheets, stories and other content to highlight the Office’s objectives and work.
• Draft correspondence, briefing materials and regular reports.
• Assist in the management of public enquiries, including the PI inbox, and other systems.
• Facilitate high level visits as required, including drafting briefing materials.
• Organise events and liaise with partners, refugees and local communities.
• Ensure information materials are available and up to date, organising printing for hard copy and visibility materials.
• Perform other duties as required