Context:
Established in 1951, IOM is a Related Organization of the United Nations, and as the leading UN agency in the field of migration, works closely with governmental, intergovernmental and non-governmental partners. IOM is dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. It does so by providing services and advice to governments and migrants.
IOM is committed to ensuring a workplace where all employees can thrive professionally, while working towards harnessing the full potential of migration. Read more about IOM's workplace culture at IOM workplace culture International Organization for Migration.
Under the overall supervision of the Regional Director, of the direct supervision of the Senior Regional Media and Communications officer, the incumbent will assist missions in their communications activities and support Regional Office Media and Communications work, with a particular focus on the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), League of Arab States (LOAS), and other regional entities. The role requires adaptability in a fast-paced environment, often involving support for crisis communications.
- Provide technical support to country missions in media relations, including editing and reviewing press materials, drafting op-eds, and supporting media-related planning.
- Support the maintenance of regional media outlets, forums, influencers, and goodwill ambassadors, as directed.
- Assist in organizing media orientation or information sessions for IOM staff and partners to help strengthen preliminary media engagement capacity.
- In coordination with the supervisor, contribute to the creation and rollout of innovative communications products, including podcasts and influencer collaborations.
- Update media taking points and communication materials, in line with agreed public messaging.
- Support fundraising efforts through media engagement and storytelling.
- Provide input for the development and regular updating of the regional communications work plan.
- Assist in monitoring media coverage and preparing summaries to support communications planning.
- Contribute to the preparation of the monthly RO newsletter.
- Assist in organizing outreach events to raise IOM’s visibility in the region and promote positive perceptions of migration.
- Assist in developing high-quality text stories, photos, video and audio content for donor submissions, IOM websites and social media platforms.
- Perform such other duties as may be assigned.
- Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Communications or a related field from an accredited academic institution with two years of relevant professional experience; or
- Master’s degree in any of the above-mentioned fields.
- Demonstrated competency as a writer and editor in English (native or similar level) and Arabic.
- Experience of working a newsroom or other communications unit.
- Familiarity with international organizations, preferably within UN systems.
- Previous working experience with UN agencies, similar organizations, or equivalent private sector experience.
- Strong communications and interpersonal skills.
- Efficiency, flexibility, high level of professionalism and ability to work under pressure and adhere to strict deadlines.
- Ability to work effectively and harmoniously with colleagues from varied cultures and professional backgrounds.
- Ability to apply guidance and feedback appropriately.
- Basic skills coordinating administrative matters and supporting other staff as needed.
- For all applicants, fluency in English and Arabic is required (oral and written)
Proficiency of language(s) required will be specifically evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments. Required Competencies IOM’s competency framework can be found at this link. Competencies will be assessed during the selection process. Values - all IOM staff members must abide by and demonstrate these three values:
- Inclusion and respect for diversity: Respects and promotes individual and cultural differences. Encourages diversity and inclusion.
- Integrity and transparency: Maintains high ethical standards and acts in a manner consistent with organizational principles/rules and standards of conduct.
- Professionalism: Demonstrates ability to work in a composed, competent and committed manner and exercises careful judgment in meeting day-to-day challenges.
- Courage: Demonstrates willingness to take a stand on issues of importance.
- Empathy: Shows compassion for others, makes people feel safe, respected and fairly treated.
- Teamwork: Develops and promotes effective collaboration within and across units to achieve shared goals and optimize results.
- Delivering results: Produces and delivers quality results in a service-oriented and timely manner. Is action oriented and committed to achieving agreed outcomes.
- Managing and sharing knowledge: Continuously seeks to learn, share knowledge and innovate.
- Accountability: Takes ownership for achieving the Organization’s priorities and assumes responsibility for own actions and delegated work.
- Communication: Encourages and contributes to clear and open communication. Explains complex matters in an informative, inspiring and motivational way.
- Any offer made to the candidate in relation to this vacancy notice is subject to funding confirmation.
- This selection process may be used to staff similar positions in various duty stations. Recommended candidates will remain eligible to be appointed in a similar position for a period of 24 months.
- National Professional Officers should be nationals of the country of their employment. NPOs perform work at the professional level and the same standards of recruitment qualifications and performance, required for International Professional staff.
- Appointment will be subject to certification that the candidate is medically fit for appointment, verification of residency, visa, and authorizations by the concerned Government, where applicable.
- IOM has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and IOM, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination based on gender, nationality, age, race, sexual orientation, religious or ethnic background or disabilities.
- IOM does not charge a fee at any stage of its recruitment process (application, interview, processing, training or other fee). IOM does not request any information related to bank accounts.
- IOM only accepts duly completed applications submitted through the IOM online recruitment system. The online tool also allows candidates to track the status of their application.