ASSISTANT DIRECTOR-GENERAL FOR COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION

The Communication and Information Sector’s mission is to promote freedom of expression, media independence and pluralism, build knowledge societies through information and communication technologies (ICTs), and foster universal access and preservation of documentary heritage. 

Under the authority of the Director-General, the Assistant Director-General for Communication and Information is responsible for providing leadership and for establishing a strategic vision for the Communication and Information Sector. The Assistant Director-General for Communication and Information is also responsible for the overall implementation of the Communication and Information Programme, as approved by UNESCO’s governing bodies. The incumbent will cooperate closely with other ADG in order to focus on transversal issues.

The Communication and Information Programme will focus on\:

• fostering freedom of expression online and offline, promoting the safety of journalists, advancing diversity and participation in media, and supporting independent media;
• building Knowledge Societies through ICTs by enabling universal access to, and preservation of, information and knowledge;
• mobilizing extrabudgetary resources and establishing partnerships with public and private entities to support the implementation of the Sector’s overall programme; 
• anticipating and developing new ideas and innovative activities in order to meet digital challenges.

For further information on the specific above-mentioned programmes, candidates may consult our website\: http\://www.unesco.org, and/or the following documents\: 37 C/4 (UNESCO’s Medium-Term Strategy, 2014–2021) and 39 C/5 (Draft UNESCO’s Programme and Budget for 2018–2019). 

Education 

• Advanced university degree (Masters or equivalent) in a discipline related to the fields of communication and/or information.

 Work Experience

• Extensive and relevant professional experience in senior leadership/executive positions in areas directly related to UNESCO's Communication and Information Programme, including assignments at the regional and/or international level.
• Several years of exposure to the requirements of international and inter-governmental cooperation, preferably within the United Nations system context.

 Skills/Competencies

• Knowledge of, and commitment to, the Organization’s mandate, vision, strategic directions and priorities.
• Leadership capacities, a sense of objectivity and neutrality, strong analytical skills and intellectual capabilities, professional integrity and diplomacy.
• Ability to exercise well-founded and balanced authority, as well as to provide and manage advisory services and functions.
• Sound knowledge of general management practices, including results-based management and budgeting principles, governance and accountability.
• Proven ability to interact effectively at the highest governmental levels, as well as with leaders of the private sector and NGOs, and to build collaborative partnerships and networks with and between a wide variety of stakeholders.
• Excellent communication skills with strong representational abilities.

 Languages 

• Excellent knowledge and drafting skills in one of the working languages of the Organization (English or French).

Education 

• A PhD level degree in the fields of communication and/or information or one of its sub-disciplines would be an asset.

 Work Experience 

• Awareness and knowledge of UNESCO’s strategic objectives and of wider processes within the United Nations system, especially with regard to the elaboration of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

 Skills/Competencies 

• Skills in administration and the management of financial and human resources.
• Skills and knowledge should include a solid understanding of global operational risk.
• Experience in guiding staff and motivating teams in a culturally diverse environment.

 Languages 

• Working knowledge of the second language (English or French).
• Knowledge of other United Nations languages (Arabic, Chinese, Russian and Spanish).