Communication Assistant (Knowledge Diffusion), GS-6, Mexico City, Mexico

Under the supervision and guidance of the supervisor, the Communication Assistant (Knowledge Diffusion) supports the communication section and programme sections through better organizing the productions, editing, managing and storage of high amount of information.

The fundamental mission of UNICEF is to promote the rights of every child, everywhere, in everything the organization does — in programs, in advocacy and in operations. The equity strategy, emphasizing the most disadvantaged and excluded children and families, translates this commitment to children’s rights into action. For UNICEF, equity means that all children have an opportunity to survive, develop and reach their full potential, without discrimination, bias or favoritism. To the degree that any child has an unequal chance in life — in its social, political, economic, civic and cultural dimensions — her or his rights are violated. There is growing evidence that investing in the health, education and protection of a society’s most disadvantaged citizens — addressing inequity — not only will give all children the opportunity to fulfill their potential but also will lead to sustained growth and stability of countries. This is why the focus on equity is so vital. It accelerates progress towards realizing the human rights of all children, which is the universal mandate of UNICEF, as outlined by the Convention on the Rights of the Child, while also supporting the equitable development of nations.

Purpose for the job:  Under the supervision and guidance of the supervisor, the Communication Assistant (Knowledge Diffusion) supports the communication section and programme sections through better organizing the productions, editing, managing and storage of high amount of information.

As the knowledge generation role of the Country Office is increasing, communication activities will become even more necessary to reinforce the dissemination of new data and messages emanating from it. This also presents an opportunity to further the use of such knowledge in the region. This post supports CPD outcome 5: social and resources mobilization as well as the outcome 1: policy analysis and knowledge generation. This post coordinates copyediting of material, typesetting of the text and figures into a page layout, proofreading of the typeset pages, indexing of the content and manufacturing of the finished report. The Communication Assistant (Knowledge Diffusion) proposes specific projects and pieces, multimedia assets and infographics, for the CO knowledge generation strategy.

Key functions, accountabilities and related duties/tasks

Summary of key functions/accountabilities:

1. Proposes specific projects and pieces for the CO knowledge generation strategy
2. Proposes a publications strategy that strongly supports knowledge generation and dissemination
3. Organize under minimal supervision the productions.
4. Coordinate the whole publishing process for all the CO pieces

1. Proposes specific projects and pieces for the CO knowledge generation strategy

•  Design and plan the knowledge generation strategy aligned with programmatic priorities.

2. Proposes a publications strategy that strongly supports knowledge generation and dissemination

• Plan, evaluate, and edit for quality and competitive advantage print and digital products. This position is responsible for making editorial decisions that ensure a customer-centered focus and a strong market identity and for directing authors and others to make improvements accordingly.
• Schedule, plan, and coordinate the elements of each project including content delivery, editing, reviewing, permissions, photo research, and turnover to print and media production.
• Ensure that products are delivered on time and within budget.
• Hire and manage content providers and freelance editors as needed.
• Editing and producing communication assets such as videos, infographics, media news notes, emailing and social media strategies.
• Work with the communications/media team to develop dissemination and marketing plans.

3. Organize under minimal supervision the productions

• Editing / writing / proofreading the content of each of the publications based on the available information and according to standards of quality and style established by UNICEF.
• Estimates number of pages from galley proof and informs editor if all materials selected can be used in the forthcoming issue.
• Read and interpret work orders; Ability to identify and translate customer requirements into projects; Knowledge to select the appropriate technique, process or procedure; Ability to scan a wide range of originals to produce finished products; Analyze and resolve production-related problems and issues

4. Coordinate the whole publishing process for all the CO pieces

• Prepare production-ready final manuscript (digital and print), art files, and associated map, art, photo, and permissions logs.
  Keep abreast of pedagogical and market trends; perform competitive analyses.
• Coordinate copyediting of material, typesetting of the text and figures into a page layout, proofreading of the typeset pages, indexing of the content and manufacturing of the finished report.
• Knowledge on UNICEF procedures; Large format plotter operation; Electronic publishing formats, standards and production resources; Desktop Publishing

5. Performs other related duties as required.

Impact of Results

The efficiency and effectiveness of the support provided by the communication assistant (Knowledge Diffusion) to the area and office’s knowledge generation strategy facilitates the delivery of concrete and sustainable results for the respective section, which in turn enhances the offices and UNICEF’s capacity in helping the most vulnerable women and children.

This post supports CPD outcome 5: social and resources mobilization as well as the outcome 1: policy analysis and knowledge generation.

Competencies and level of proficiency required (based on UNICEF Professional Competency Profiles)

Core Values

• Commitment
• Diversity and inclusion
• Integrity

Core Competencies

• Communication (II)
• Working with people (II)
• Drive for results (II)

Functional Competencies

• Analyzing (II)
• Applying technical expertise (II)
• Planning and organizing (II)
• Following Instructions and Procedures (II)

Recruitment Qualifications

• Education: Completion of secondary eduction, preferably supplemented by technical or university courses related to the work of the organization. Bachelor´s degree in communication is an asset.
• Experience: A minimum of 6 years’ experience on editing and producing communication assets such as videos, infographics, media news notes, emailing and social media strategies is required.´
  At least 5 years’ experience on editorial processes.
• Language Requirements: Fluency in Spanish and English 

Non-Mexican candidates must be in possession of an existing Mexican FM3/FM2 visa or be a Mexican permanent resident/citizen.