Public Information Officer (Strategic Communications)

About the job

Organizational setting and reporting

This position is located in the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR), an autonomous institution within the framework of the United Nations mandated by the General Assembly to undertake independent research and analysis on disarmament and international security issues. The Public Information Officer reports to the Executive Officer and works closely with the Directorate and Heads of Programmes.

Responsibilities

The Public Information Officer will be responsible for the following duties:

• Leads UNIDIR’s communication strategy in order to effectively engage a diverse group of stakeholders (including Member States, policy-makers, the research community, civil society and relevant UN actors);
• Takes the lead in planning, development and implementation of communication and outreach campaigns for UNIDIR’s projects, activities, events and studies;
• Incorporates key messages and themes into all relevant events and products;
• Takes the lead on production of audio (podcasts) and video content;
• Promotes press and social media coverage of priority issues and major events;
• Provides advice and expertise to colleagues on a range of communication and outreach issues, methods and approaches; anticipates and resolves communications concerns;
• Develops strategic partnerships to elicit support for and maximize impact of promotional objectives;
• Prepares and oversees preparation of a diverse range of information products in support of institutional objectives;
• Builds information networks;
• Plans and oversees maintenance of publicly accessible information materials on disarmament;
• Plans and develops outreach activities to key constituencies;
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Competencies

The incumbent is required to demonstrate the core values of the United Nations: Professionalism, Integrity and Respect for Diversity. In addition, s/he shall demonstrate the following competences:

• Professionalism: Ability to produce a variety of written communications products in a clear, concise style; good drafting skills and knowledge of equipment used in the production of visual advocacy products, including design and video editing software; excellent knowledge and understanding of developing campaign ideas around new media including social networking and video sharing; capacity to develop and facilitate relationships with the media community. Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.
• Communication: Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailors language, tone, style and format to match the audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.
• Planning and organizing: Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required; allocates an appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; uses time efficiently; is able to work independently.
• Creativity: Actively seeks to improve programmes or services; offers new and different options to solve problems or meet client needs; promotes and persuades others to consider new ideas; takes calculated risks on new and unusual ideas; thinks “outside the box”.

Qualifications and experience

Education

Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in communication, journalism, international relations, public administration or related field. A first-level university degree in combination with two years qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Experience

A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in public information, journalism, international relations or related area is required. Experience in managing digital public information campaigns is desirable. Experience in defining and managing communications challenges is desirable. Experience working with international campaigns using social media and other forms of new media platforms is desirable. Experience with disarmament and arms control efforts is desirable. Experience with United Nations bodies and processes is desirable.

Language

English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this position, fluency in English is required. Knowledge of French is an advantage.

Assessment

Evaluation of qualified candidates may include an assessment exercise which may be followed by a competency-based interview.

Travel

The Public Information Officer will be required to travel during the course of this assignment. S/he must complete the UN course BSAFE (online) and other mandatory UN trainings.

How to apply

The applicant should submit:

• A cover letter
• A PDF of a UN Personal History Profile (PHP) created via Inspira
• Name and contact details of three references

Applications should be sent as email attachments, with the subject line “Application: Public Information Officer – Strategic Communications” to E-Mail schreiben. No applications will be accepted by post. Deadline for submission of applications is 17 July 2026. Closing date is midnight Geneva time.

Please note

Incomplete applications and applications generated with Artificial Intelligence will not be processed.

Due to the high volume of applications received, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Should you move forward in the process, you may be contacted for further assessment.

UNIDIR is committed to achieving 50/50 gender balance in its staff. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply for this position.