Information Officer

AI summary

The Information Officer serves as Deputy Director of UNIS Nairobi, leading complex communications campaigns and providing strategic public information advice. The role develops partnerships with media, government, and civil society to promote UN objectives across Kenya, Uganda, and Seychelles. Based at UNON, the UN headquarters in Africa, the position oversees diverse communication products and outreach activities.

• Deputy Director-level role at UNIS Nairobi covering Kenya, Uganda, and Seychelles
• Leads large, complex communications campaigns and strategic partnerships
• Requires advanced degree and minimum seven years of public information experience
• At least three years of supervisory experience in an international organization needed
• Fluency in English required; French is desirable
• Application deadline is October 18, 2026

Original source description

INFORMATION OFFICER | UNDGC - United Nations Department of Global Communications INFORMATION OFFICER UNDGC - United Nations Department of Global Communications Nairobi International P-4, International Professional - Internationally recruited position level Speaks English, French Application deadline: October 18, 2026 (about 1 month) Apply Summary by Impactpool The Information Officer position at the United Nations Information Service (UNIS) in Nairobi involves leading complex communications campaigns and providing strategic advice on public information issues. The role requires developing partnerships with key stakeholders and preparing diverse communication products to promote the UN's work. The incumbent will also evaluate communication activities and represent the institution at various events. This position is crucial for enhancing public understanding of the UN's objectives in the region. Candidate Requirements: Advanced university degree in communication, journalism, or related field Minimum seven years of experience: in public information or journalism At least three years of supervisory experience: in an international organization Experience: in developing and implementing communications strategies Knowledge of digital media platforms and information integrity risks Fluency in English; French is desirable Org. Setting and Reporting The Department of Global Communications is responsible for informing the public, civil society and Member States with trusted information and communicating the UN story around the world through its global networks and United Nations Information Centres and Services. This position is located in the United Nations Information Service (UNIS) Nairobi, at the United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON), the UN headquarters in Africa. It is part of the Information Centres Service (ICS) of the Outreach Division (OD) of the Department of Global Communications (DGC). This function serves as the Deputy Director of UNIS Nairobi. UNIS Nairobi is part of the global network of United Nations Information Centres (UNICs) and UNISs, and covers Kenya, Uganda, and the Seychelles. UNIS Nairobi is responsible for promoting public understanding and support for the aims and activities of the United Nations by communicating the work of the UN to a local audience in local languages; engaging local and regional partners, including Member States, government, civil society groups, media, youth, and institutions of higher learning on various outreach activities; and, overall, bringing the United Nations closer to the peoples it serves. UNIS Nairobi provides external communications support to the UNON Director-General, and oversees the UN Visitors Service, Nairobi that welcomes approximately 15,000 visitors annually from around the world. Responsibilities: Under the overall supervision of the Director of UNIS Nairobi, the incumbent will be responsible for the following functions: • Takes the lead in strategy, planning, development and implementation of large, complex communications campaigns (e.g. global promotion initiatives, public information programmes, broad-reaching subject specific issues, etc.); where appropriate, works with departments, funds and agencies to develop ways to implement campaigns system-wide and to incorporate the campaign message and themes into all relevant events and products. • Provides advice and expertise to managers, senior officers and other public information staff on a range of public affairs issues, methods, and approaches; anticipates and resolves communications/public relations issues/problems and strengthens information integrity. • Develops strategic partnerships with key constituencies to elicit support for and maximize impact of promotional objectives; serves as a spokesperson/principal liaison to media organizations, governmental bodies, national groups, private sector organizations, educational organizations, international organizations, etc. • Prepares or oversees preparation of a diverse range of information communications products including media lines in crisis situations and on sensitive issues, and compelling narratives and messaging on the work of the UN that engage target audiences across different channels and platforms. • Evaluates results and impact of communications activities; reports on developments, trends and attitudes regarding the UN. • Represents the institution in meetings and conferences; fulfills speaking engagements and makes presentations to groups on UN activities and advocates issues of concern; organizes media coverage and arranges for media contacts, briefings, interviews; and organizes seminars, lectures, conferences, public events on major issues and events concerning the organization. • Builds information networks; plans and develops outreach activities. • Assists in the day-to-day operation of the Service to include participating in coordination of substantive and administrative activities of the unit, interpreting and disseminating policy, providing procedural advice, improving reporting systems, handling operational and administrative queries, preparing budget submissions, establishing and/or coordinating training programmes and monitoring and evaluating results. • May coordinate and direct a team of public information staff and/or mentor and supervise the work of junior officers on specific projects, promoting professional development and a positive team culture. • Collects and analyzes data to identify trends or patterns and provide insights through graphs, charts, tables and reports using data visualization methods to enable data-driven planning, decision-making, presentation and reporting. Competencies •PROFESSIONALISM: Knowledge of different aspects of public information and communication. Ability to address a range of issues in the context of political developments, public attitudes and local conditions. Ability to conceptualize, design and implement major information campaigns. Ability to rapidly analyze and integrate diverse information from varied sources. Ability to diplomatically handle sensitive situations with target audiences and cultivate productive relationships. Ability to produce a variety of written communications products in a clear, concise style. Ability to deliver oral presentations to various audiences. Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work. •COMMUNICATION: Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed. •PLANNING AND ORGANIZING: Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required; allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; uses time efficiently. Education: Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in communication, journalism, international relations, public administration or related field. A first-level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience: may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree. Successful completion of both degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics or data science programs is desirable. Job - Specific Qualification Not available. Work Experience: A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience: in public information, journalism, international relations, public administration or related area is required, including at least three years of supervising experience: in the United Nations Common System or a comparable international organization. Minimum four years’ experience: in developing and implementing communications strategies and communications products in an international context is required. At least four years’ experience: in communicating complex and technical matters to diverse audiences and engaging stakeholders towards common communications and outreach goals is required. Demonstrated knowledge of current and emerging digital media platforms, their principles and technologies is required. Demonstrated knowledge of risks to information integrity - misinformation, disinformation, hate speech, and threats in fragile, post conflict, and crisis environments is desirable. Two years or more of experience: in data analytics or related area is desirable. Languages English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this job opening, English is required. French is desirable. The table below shows the minimum required level for each skill in these languages, according to the UN Language Framework (please consult https://languages.un.org for details). .headtable { font-family: arial, sans-serif; border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%; border: 1px solid gray; border-radius: 10px; overflow: hidden; } .headTitle { font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; /*color: rgb(65, 98, 145);*/ color:black; } .headtable tr td, .headtable tr th { text-align: center; vertical-align: middle; padding: 6px; } .headtable th{ background-color: #F4F4F4; color: #002d62; font-weight: bold; text-align: center; vertical-align: middle; padding: 12px; border-right: 1px solid #ccc; } .headtable td { text-align: center; vertical-align: middle; background-color: white; border-top: 1px solid #ccc; border-right: 1px solid #ccc; } .headtable th:last-child, .headtable td:last-child { border-right: none; } .headtable tr:last-child td { border-bottom: none; } .rounded-table-wrapper { border-radius: 12px; border: 1px solid #ccc; overflow: hidden; } Required Languages Language Reading Writing Listening Speaking English UN Level III UN Level III UN Level III UN Level III Desirable Languages Language Reading Writing Listening Speaking French UN Level I UN Level I UN Level I UN Level I Assessment Evaluation of qualified candidates may include an assessment exercise which may be followed by competency-based interview. Special Notice Staff members are subject to the authority of the Secretary-General and to assignment by him or her. In this context, all staff are expected to move periodically to new functions in their careers in accordance with established rules and procedures. At the United Nations, the paramount consideration in the recruitment and employment of staff is the necessity of securing the highest standards of efficiency, competence and integrity, with due regard to geographic diversity. All employment decisions are made on the basis of qualifications and organizational needs. The United Nations is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment of mutual respect. The United Nations recruits and employs staff regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, race, religious, cultural and ethnic backgrounds or disabilities. The United Nations Secretariat is committed to achieving 50/50 gender balance and geographical diversity in its staff. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply for this position. For this position, applicants from the following Member States, which are unrepresented or underrepresented in the UN Secretariat as of 30 June 2026, are strongly encouraged to apply: Andorra, Brunei Darussalam, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Dominica, Equatorial Guinea, Grenada, Kiribati, Kuwait, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Liechtenstein, Marshall Islands, Micronesia (Federated States of), Nauru, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Qatar, Sao Tome and Principe, Timor-Leste, Tuvalu, United Arab Emirates, Vanuatu, Afghanistan, Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Belize, China, Cuba, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Libya, Liberia, Luxembourg, Monaco, Oman, Paraguay, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Slovenia, Solomon Islands, Turkmenistan, United States of America. United Nations Considerations According to article 101, paragraph 3, of the Charter of the United Nations, the paramount consideration in the employment of the staff is the necessity of securing the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity. Candidates will not be considered for employment with the United Nations if they have committed violations of international human rights law, violations of international humanitarian law, sexual exploitation, sexual abuse, or sexual harassment, or if there are reasonable grounds to believe that they have been involved in the commission of any of these acts. The term “sexual exploitation” means any actual or attempted abuse of a position of vulnerability, differential power, or trust, for sexual purposes, including, but not limited to, profiting monetarily, socially or politically from the sexual exploitation of another. The term “sexual abuse” means the actual or threatened physical intrusion of a sexual nature, whether by force or under unequal or coercive conditions. The term “sexual harassment” means any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature that might reasonably be expected or be perceived to cause offence or humiliation, when such conduct interferes with work, is made a condition of employment or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive work environment, and when the gravity of the conduct warrants the termination of the perpetrator’s working relationship. Candidates who have committed crimes other than minor traffic offences may not be considered for employment. Due regard will be paid to the importance of recruiting the staff on as wide a geographical basis as possible. The United Nations places no restrictions on the eligibility of men and women to participate in any capacity and under conditions of equality in its principal and subsidiary organs. The United Nations Secretariat is a non-smoking environment. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to applicants with disabilities upon request, to support their participation in the recruitment process. By accepting a letter of appointment, staff members are subject to the authority of the Secretary-General, who may assign them to any of the activities or offices of the United Nations in accordance with staff regulation 1.2 (c). Further, staff members in the Professional and higher category up to and including the D-2 level and the Field Service category are normally required to move periodically to discharge functions in different duty stations under conditions established in ST/AI/2023/3 on Mobility, as may be amended or revised. This condition of service applies to all position specific job openings and does not apply to temporary positions. Applicants are urged to carefully follow all instructions available in the online recruitment platform, inspira, and to refer to the Applicant Guide by clicking on “Manuals” in the “Help” tile of the inspira account-holder homepage. The evaluation of applicants will be conducted on the basis of the information submitted in the application according to the evaluation criteria of the job opening and the applicable internal legislations of the United Nations including the Charter of the United Nations, resolutions of the General Assembly, the Staff Regulations and Rules, administrative issuances and guidelines. Applicants must provide complete and accurate information pertaining to their personal profile and qualifications according to the instructions provided in inspira to be considered for the current job opening. No amendment, addition, deletion, revision or modification shall be made to applications that have been submitted. Candidates under serious consideration for selection will be subject to reference checks to verify the information provided in the application. All external candidates recruited in accordance with section ‎2.2 (a) of ST/AI/2025/3 for a fixed term appointment without limitation and all external candidates recruited in accordance with section 2.2. (c) of ST/AI/2025/3 for a fixed term appointment limited to the entity are subject to an initial probationary period of one year under a fixed-term appointment. Job openings advertised on the Careers Portal will be removed at 11:59 p.m. (New York time) on the deadline date. 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. At Impactpool we do our best to provide you the most accurate info, but closing dates may be wrong on our site. Please check on the recruiting organization's page for the exact info. Candidates are responsible for complying with deadlines and are encouraged to submit applications well ahead. Before applying, please make sure that you have read the requirements: for the position and that you qualify. Applications from non-qualifying applicants will most likely be discarded by the recruiting manager. Summary by Impactpool The Information Officer position at the United Nations Information Service (UNIS) in Nairobi involves leading complex communications campaigns and providing strategic advice on public information issues. The role requires developing partnerships with key stakeholders and preparing diverse communication products to promote the UN's work. The incumbent will also evaluate communication activities and represent the institution at various events. This position is crucial for enhancing public understanding of the UN's objectives in the region. Candidate Requirements: Advanced university degree in communication, journalism, or related field Minimum seven years of experience: in public information or journalism At least three years of supervisory experience: in an international organization Experience: in developing and implementing communications strategies Knowledge of digital media platforms and information integrity risks Fluency in English; French is desirable Fellowship Master the recruitment process of the impact sector! Become a fellow and gain access to Impactpool's premium material that will boost your career in the impact sector Explore fellowship Show UNDGC - United Nations Department of Global Communications that you are interested in them Recruiters from the organization will be able to view your profile, contact you for current & future vacancies and engage you on opportunities that match your skills and interest. Connect with organization INFORMATION OFFICER UNDGC - United Nations Department of Global Communications Nairobi International P-4, International Professional - Internationally recruited position level Speaks English, French Apply