National Communications Officer

Applications are welcome from internal and external candidates. For all IOM vacancies, applications from qualified and eligible first-tier candidates are considered before those of qualified and eligible second-tier candidates in the selection process. For the purpose of this vacancy, internal candidates are considered first-tier candidates.
  Context

Under the direct supervision of IOM Ghana’s Chief of Mission, in close coordination with the relevant units in the Regional Office for West and Central Africa, the incumbent will assist with communications activities of IOM Ghana across programmes, projects and departments, and provide support to communications initiatives of IOM Benin and IOM Togo, as required.

1. Support the drafting and implementation of IOM Ghana’s communication, visibility, and awareness-raising activities, in line with project communication plans and IOM guidelines.
2. Provide support in the development and implementation of awareness-raising campaigns and materials, including monitoring budget under the guidance of the supervisor.
3. Supervise and provide day-to-day guidance to the Digital Communications Assistant and Communications Interns in carrying out their work.
4. Contribute to the drafting and editing communication content (e.g., newsletters, press releases, photos, short videos, human interest stories, etc.), for review and clearance.
5. Support the updating and maintenance of the IOM website.
6. Contribute to the management of IOM Ghana’s social media channels (X/Twitter, Facebook, Instagram), including preparing draft posts, visuals, scheduling, monitoring engagement, and compiling reports.
7. Support the preparation of communication and visibility materials (information sheets, reports, banners, branded items), ensuring compliance with IOM’s branding and donor guidelines.
8. Support photo and video coverage of events, including editing and archiving of materials, under the guidance of the supervisor.
9. Support liaison with external service providers (e.g., photographers, designers, printers), ensuring adherence to IOM branding and visibility requirements.
10. Provide support in media relations, including drafting information for journalists, assisting with media monitoring, and maintaining communication archives, as agreed with the supervisor.
11. Provide support to initiatives involving IOM Ghana Goodwill Ambassadors, under the guidance of the supervisor.
12. Participate in the UN Communications Group (UNCG) and contribute to inputs as requested.
13. Support the integration of gender and diversity considerations in communications outputs.
14. Perform other related duties as may be assigned. Education
    • Bachelor’s degree in communications, Political Sciences, International Relations or a related field from an accredited academic institution, with two additional years of relevant professional experience; or, 
    • Master’s degree in communications in above-mentioned fields. Accredited Universities are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database.   Experience
      • Experience in supporting communication or visibility activities.
      • Knowledge of social media content creation and platform management.
      • Experience in drafting and editing texts in English.
      • Experience using design or photo/video editing software (e.g., Adobe Suite or similar) is desirable.
      • Familiarity with website updating and digital newsletters is an advantage.
      • Previous work experience with UN agencies, NGOs, or media organizations is an asset. Skills
        • Good knowledge of Microsoft Office package (Word, Power Point, Excel).Knowledge of design, photo, or video editing software (Adobe Suite or equivalent).
        • Familiarity with social media management tools and content management systems.
        • High attention to detail and organizational skills.
        • Strong drafting and communication skills in English.
        • Ability to work collaboratively and extract information across units. Languages   IOM’s official languages are English, French and Spanish. Proficiency of language(s) required will be specifically evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments.   For all applicants, fluency in English is required (oral and written).

          Working knowledge of other local languages or French is an advantage.

          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.
15. Courage: Demonstrates willingness to take a stand on issues of importance.