Communications Expert

Result of Service

The consultant will support the communications and outreach efforts in the lead up to the upcoming Fifth session of the International Conference on Chemicals Management (ICCM5) as well as post ICCM5.
Through enhanced visibility and engagement with the range of SAICM stakeholders via several outreach activities, through traditional and digital communications channels, there will be increased awareness of the benefits of the sound management of chemicals and wastes and hence for the need for an ambitious international framework to support global efforts.
Through greater visibility efforts there will be increased awareness of the issues at stake in the lead up, during and after the Fifth Session of the International Conference on Chemicals Management (ICCM5).

Work Location

Remote / Home based

Expected duration

12 months

Duties and Responsibilities

--Background (Org. Setting)
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment.
The overall objective of the UNEP’s Industry Economy Division is to encourage decision makers in government, local authorities and industry to develop and adopt policies, strategies and practices and technologies that promote sustainable patterns of consumption and production, make efficient use of natural resources, ensure safe management of chemicals and contribute to making trade and environment policies mutually supportive. It promotes the development, use and transfer of policies, technologies, economic instruments, managerial practices and other tools that assist in environmentally sound decision making and the building of corresponding activities.
The Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management is an inclusive, voluntary global policy framework on the sound management of chemicals and waste and is hosted by UNEP, Chemicals and Health Branch in Geneva. Currently, the SAICM Secretariat is implementing Resolution IV/5 of the fourth session of the International Conference of Chemicals Management, including the intersessional process to prepare recommendations regarding the Strategic Approach and the sound management of chemicals and waste beyond 2020.

--Outputs
In line with the SAICM programme of work, the consultant will carry out the following project tasks:
• Implement the SAICM ICCM5 communications strategy on the sound management of chemicals and waste in collaboration with relevant stakeholders that has clear objectives, messaging, and transmission channels for each target audience.
• Maintain a strong brand for the successor SAICM instrument on chemicals and waste, by highlighting the added value of the new framework to stakeholders.
• Provide substantive inputs for the development of project and topic-related communications strategies and strengthen existing communications products, with a specific focus on messaging for key sectors and stakeholder groups (governments, intergovernmental organizations, industry, civil society organizations and the general public).
• Liaise internally with the relevant UNEP communications focal points and with the German Ministry of Environment as hosts of ICCM5 to develop and coordinate outreach for the Conference, including the use of social media and corporate communications material to build internal and external visibility and increase interest among key stakeholder groups.
• Broaden outreach of the SAICM brand in the lead up to ICCM5 by highlighting the achievements made in the chemicals and waste management agenda through the use of its digital assets: website, social media targeted publications, as well as facilitate direct engagement with relevant actors and experts.
Provide substantive inputs for speaking notes, talking points, speeches, and backgrounders for senior managers on chemical and waste related topics and augment these with the relevant communications strategies focusing on messaging for key sectors and stakeholder groups (governments, intergovernmental organizations, industry, civil society organizations and the general public).
• Maintain working relationships across UNEP communications focal points as well as with the German Ministry of Environment as hosts of ICCM5 to develop and coordinate content in the lead-up to both international conferences. Ensure quality control of content for SAICM website, social media, and corporate communications material to build internal and external visibility and increase interest among key stakeholder groups in the global chemicals and waste agenda.

Qualifications/special skills

Advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in communications, journalism or a related field. A first-level university degree in combination with qualifying seven years’ experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in journalism, media, communications and outreach or related area. Experience in the field of environment, politics or society is an asset.

Languages

Fluent written and spoken English is required. Knowledge of another UN language would be an asset.

No Fee

THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.