Communications Expert - Consultant (home-based)

Result of Service By 1 March:Output 1: Detailed workplan with key outputs and targetsOutput 2: Monthly report on the progress on the implementation of activities according to the listed tasksBy 1 April:Output 3: Monthly report on the progress on the implementation of activities according to the listed tasksOutput 4: Three promotional materials on Data for Now related events at the UN Statistical Commission finalized.By 1 May:Output 5: Final report providing an overview of all contributions made and a recommendationfor next steps on communication and outreach for the initiative.Output 6: Two data stories and two promotional videos finalized Work Location The consultancy is home-based with regular phone and web conference meetings with UNSD, project countries and other partners, particularly UN regional commissions and other involved DESA entities. Travel or commute time, as well as related expenses, are not part of the consultancy. Expected duration The initial consultancy is for a period of three months, part time, from 1 February to 1 May 2025, with a likely extension for up to 2 years. Duties and Responsibilities The Data for Now initiative (https://unstats.un.org/capacity-development/data-for-now/), co-led by the United Nations Statistics Division (UNSD), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the World Bank, the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development Data (GPSDD), and the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), aims to develop countries' capacities to deliver the information needed by local and national policy and decision makers to achieve the 2030 Agenda. To this end, it supports members of the national statistical systems in participating countries to collaborate more effectively with local, national and global partners from intergovernmental organizations, academia, civil society and the private sector, in order to leverage innovative sources, technologies and methods for the streamlined production and dissemination of better, more timely and disaggregated data for sustainable development.As part of the implementation of the Data For Now initiative, UNSD is looking for a consultant who can take a lead in the communications and outreach work. This includes development of communications and outreach materials, including data stories, short information videos, newsletters and engagement on the webpage and on social media, as well as support to communications engagement with core partners and at national level in countries supported by the Data for Now initiative.In this context, UNSD requires the service of a consultant to support the communication, outreach and user engagement work of UNSD related to the Data for Now initiative. The consultant will work closely with the UNSD team and where relevant and beneficial, the consultant will also support other communications work related to increasing availability of SDG indicators and innovation. Qualifications/special skills Advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in communication, journalism, international relations, public administration or related field. A Bachelor's degree in combination with seven (7) years of qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. A minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in communications is required. Experience in working with producing social media and video content for web and social media is required. Experience working with National Statistical Offices and/or other members of the national statistical system, providing capacity development, including guidance and training is required. Demonstrated expersience in the development and implementation of communication strategies, and experience working with communication and media partners from international organizations, governmental officials, academia / professional bodies, the private sector, donor / philanthropic bodies, the geospatial community, data advocates and civil society in the organization is required. Experience in developing and writing impact or data stories is desirable. Experience within the United Nations Systems is desirable. Languages Full command of spoken and written English required. Knowledge of other UN languages is an advantage. Additional Information Not available. 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.