Tiered Approach

In line with the commitment to safeguard capacity and support personnel already in the Organization, a majority of UNDP UNCDF/UNV vacancies are advertised using a tiered application process whereby:

• Tier 0 UNDP/UNCDF/UNV IP staff holding permanent (PA) and fixed-term (FTA) appointments, whose posts will be abolished, or contracts will be terminated or not renewed during 2026.
• Tier 1 Other UNDP/UNCDF/UNV staff holding permanent (PA) and fixed-term (FTA) appointments
• Tier 2 UNDP/UNCDF/UNV staff holding temporary appointments (TA), personnel on regular PSA contracts, and Expert and Specialist UN Volunteers
• Tier 3 or no tier indicated All other contract types from UNDP/UNCDF/UNV and other agencies, and other external candidates

Please make note of the Tier(s) indicated in the vacancy title, if any, and ensure that you satisfy the eligibility to apply.

Background

The Regional Stabilisation Facility for the Lake Chad Basin project is a joint initiative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC), implemented in the Far North region of Cameroon since 2019. This program was designed to address the security, socio-economic, and humanitarian crises affecting the region, exacerbated by terrorist attacks from extremist groups such as Boko Haram.

The implementation of the program is based on three intervention pillars: security and the rule of law, basic social services, and livelihoods. These pillars are supported by an integrated approach that involves close collaboration with local government authorities, ensuring the sustainability and legitimacy of the initiatives.

Since its inception, the program has facilitated the construction and rehabilitation of security infrastructures, the establishment of local stabilization committees, and the training of Defense and Security Forces (DSF) in human rights and gender-based violence. Additionally, educational and health infrastructures have been built, and agricultural initiatives have been implemented to strengthen the livelihoods of communities.The results achieved so far include the return of over 435,000 displaced persons, a significant improvement in the perception of security within communities, and the revitalization of the local economy. Given the persistence of crises, an extension of the program is planned for the period from September 2024 to August 2028, with a particular focus on consolidating achievements and strengthening government capacities.

a) Rationale / background and the objectives of the unit or project

The project seeks to mitigate the socio-economic and security challenges faced by communities in the Lake Chad Basin, fostering stability and resilience through integrated support. Its objectives include enhancing security, providing essential services, and improving livelihoods to promote sustainable development in the region.

b) Briefly describe how the required services will contribute to the work of the unit/project

The Communications and Reporting Officer will play a crucial role in promoting the project’s visibility and impact through effective communication strategies. This position will facilitate stakeholder engagement, enhance public awareness, and ensure that project achievements and challenges are communicated clearly to various audiences. This will also be essential in documenting the project’s progress, producing high-quality reports. This role will enhance the visibility of the project which is critical for the success of the program.

c) If applicable, explain any specific challenges around the unit, project and/or work required (e.g., security risks involved in conducting the work in certain communities, certain cultures and practices unique to the stakeholders, etc.) : NA

Despite significant achievements, challenges persist, particularly in the departments of Mayo-Sava, Mayo-Tsanaga, and Logone-et-Chari, where incidents of violence and instability continue

Duties and Responsibilities

Under the general supervision of the Head of Stabilization Unit, the Communications and Reporting Assitant works and collaborates closely with the project team at Maroua office.

She/He will undertake the following key functions:

Provide support to effective communication, visibility, stakeholder engagement efforts to enhance awareness, and strengthen collaboration among project stakeholders.

• Develop and implement a comprehensive communication strategy to enhance project visibility and engagement.

• Create high-quality content for various platforms, including reports, newsletters, and social media.

• Design and produce audio-visual materials to support project promotion and documentation.

• Draft communication materials for key events, meetings, and campaigns.

• Maintain up-to-date communication tools and resources, ensuring alignment with project goals.

• Coordinate with stakeholders to facilitate information sharing and collaboration.

• Organize and manage logistics for communication-related events and activities.

Support to the effective reporting of communication, visibility, and stakeholder engagement activities

• Ensure timely submission of reports and adherence to communication standards.

• Regularly update communication materials and project documentation.

• Maintain effective relationships with stakeholders to facilitate information sharing.

• Regularly assess the effectiveness of communication strategies and make necessary adjustments.

• Strengthen the capacity of programme staff on key skills to support the realisation of communication objectives.

• Assist in knowledge building and sharing

The incumbent performs other duties within their functional profile as deemed necessary for the efficient functioning of the Office and the Organization.

Competencies

Core

Achieve Results: LEVEL 1: Plans and monitors own work, pays attention to details, delivers quality work by deadline

Think Innovatively: LEVEL 1: Open to creative ideas/known risks, is pragmatic problem solver, makes improvements

Learn Continuously: LEVEL 1: Open minded and curious, shares knowledge, learns from mistakes, asks for feedback

Adapt with Agility: LEVEL 1: Adapts to change, constructively handles ambiguity/uncertainty, is flexible

Act with Determination: LEVEL 1: Shows drive and motivation, able to deliver calmly in face of adversity, confident

Engage and Partner: LEVEL 1: Demonstrates compassion/understanding towards others, forms positive relationships

Enable Diversity and Inclusion: LEVEL 1: Appreciate/respect differences, aware of unconscious bias, confront discrimination

Cross-Functional & Technical competencies (insert up to 7 competencies)

Thematic Area Name Definition

Ethics UN policy knowledge - ethics Knowledge and understanding of the UN Staff Regulations and Rules and other policies relating to ethics and integrity

Governance Governance and Civic Engagement Knowledge of governance principles, including civic engagement strategies that promote participation, inclusivity, transparency, and anti-corruption measures within governance frameworks.

Customer Satisfaction/Client Management Customer Satisfaction/Client Management Ability to respond timely and appropriately with a sense of urgency, provide consistent solutions, and deliver timely and quality results and/or solutions to fulfill and understand the real customers' needs. Look for ideas to add value beyond clients' immediate requests. Ability to anticipate client's upcoming needs and concerns.

Communication Advocacy and Campaign Management Ability to create and implement advocacy strategies and manage communications campaigns that lead to impactful change. Ability to develop media relations and effectively plan the use of digital channels to reach and engage target audiences.

Digital & Innovation Digital Communication Ability to leverage digital tools and platforms for effective communication, data storytelling, and audience engagement

Reporting Reporting

Ability to compile and present reports that inform decision-making and communicate insights effectively.

General (across the functions) User-Centered Design Ability to apply user-centred design principles to create engaging and effective communication products that meet the needs of target audiences

Required Skills and Experience

Education:

Min. Education requirements Secondary education is required,

OR

University Degree (Bachelor’degree) in international relations, communications or a relevant related field will be given due consideration, but it is not a requirement.

Experience:

• Minimum 4 years (with High School degree) or 1 year (with a Bachelor’s degree) of relevant experience in communication or relevant related field is required

Required skills

• Experience in the use of computers and office software packages (MS Word, Excel, etc) is required

Desired skills in addition to the competencies covered in the Competencies section

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in French and English is an asset

• Experience in producing written content such as success stories, news articles, reports, and/or social media posts is desirable

• Experience in technology (AI), web design, digital media, and social media, particularly in peacebuilding and conflict prevention. Is an asset

• Multimedia experience in photo-story development, videography, and/or graphic design is desirable.

• Knowledge of the UN and UNDP programme operations will be an added advantage.

• Proficient in communication tools (Canva, Photoshop, Camtasia ….) is an advantage

• Minimum of 02 years of experience at a similar position with International Organizations in the Far North region. Is an asset

• Proven Ability to convey information clearly and effectively across various social media platforms is desired

• Strong understanding of local issues and dynamics in the Far North region, enhancing communication effectiveness is an asset

• Proven ability to work collaboratively with local stakeholders and partners, fostering strong relationships is desired.

Langue(s) requise(s) Fluency in French and working knowledge of English OR fluency in English and working knowledge of French is required

Equal opportunity

As an equal opportunity employer, UNDP values diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate and, as such, we encourage qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply for roles in the organization. Our employment decisions are based on merit and suitability for the role, without discrimination.

UNDP is also committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, are valued, can thrive, and benefit from career opportunities that are open to all.

Sexual harassment, exploitation, and abuse of authority

UNDP does not tolerate harassment, sexual harassment, exploitation, discrimination and abuse of authority. All selected candidates, therefore, undergo relevant checks and are expected to adhere to the respective standards and principles.

Right to select multiple candidates

UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement. We may also retain applications and consider candidates applying to this post for other similar positions with UNDP at the same grade level and with similar job description, experience and educational requirements.

Use of AI by candidates

Applicants are invited to read UNDP’s guidance for candidates on using AI responsibly in UNDP recruitment and selection

Scam alert

UNDP does not charge a fee at any stage of its recruitment process. For further information, please see www.undp.org/scam-alert.