Communications expert

OVERVIEWThe United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme, in collaboration with the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), invites applications from experienced communications professionals for the position of Communications Expert, based at UNICEF Malawi's country office in Lilongwe.UNICEF works in more than 190 countries and territories to protect children's rights, improve their well-being, and ensure that every child has the opportunity to survive, learn, develop, and thrive.The successful candidate will support UNICEF Malawi's Communication, Advocacy and Partnerships (CAP) Section by developing strategic communication plans, leading advocacy campaigns, managing media relations, strengthening digital communications, and communicating programme results to partners and the public.HOST ENTITY: UNICEFJOB TYPE: National UN Volunteer – ExpertASSIGNMENT MODALITY: OnsiteWORK SCHEDULE: Full TimeASSIGNMENT DURATION: Six (6) months, with the possibility of extensionEXPECTED START DATE: 1st April, 2027SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOAL: SDG 17 – Partnerships for the GoalsDate Posted: Wednesday, 28th October, 2026Application Deadline: Thursday, 12th November, 2026POSITION: COMMUNICATIONS EXPERTJOB SUMMARYThe Communications Expert will provide strategic advice and hands-on leadership in communications, advocacy, public engagement, and digital media. The role will translate programme evidence and results into compelling stories, communication products, and campaigns that advance child rights, strengthen UNICEF's reputation, and demonstrate programme impact.The successful candidate will coordinate communication activities across programme teams and external stakeholders, ensure editorial quality, manage reputational risks, and monitor communication performance to inform decision-making.KEY REQUIREMENTSAcademic, Professional Qualifications and ExperienceApplicants should meet the following requirements:Hold a Master's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, International Relations, Development Studies, or a related field.Candidates with a first university degree and additional relevant professional experience may also be considered.Have at least seven (7) years of progressively responsible professional experience in strategic communications, media relations, digital communications, advocacy, campaigns, public relations, or a related field.Demonstrate a proven track record of independently leading communication initiatives from strategy and planning through implementation, quality assurance, measurement, and reporting.Have experience developing integrated communication strategies and workplans linked to organisational or programme results.Possess a strong portfolio of writing and editing, including stories, press releases, briefs, speeches, talking points, website content, and social media copy.Demonstrate experience leading public campaigns, media engagement, and digital content planning, with evidence of measurable reach, engagement, or influence.Have experience advising senior colleagues and communicating complex information clearly to government, donors, media, partners, and the public.Be experienced in using media monitoring, social media analytics, and performance data to refine communication strategies and report results.Have sound knowledge of brand management, ethical storytelling, informed consent, child safeguarding, and reputational risk management.Demonstrate experience coordinating multimedia production, events, external suppliers, and multiple stakeholders.Have fluent English communication skills.ADDED ADVANTAGEExperience working with the United Nations, an international development organisation, or a child-rights organisation.Familiarity with the Malawian media and communications environment.Experience in digital and social media, public information, advocacy, information management, or related areas.PERSONAL SPECIFICATION AND CORE COMPETENCIESThe ideal candidate should demonstrate:Professionalism: Sound judgement, discretion, political sensitivity, and the ability to manage information accurately and confidentially.Integrity: Commitment to UN and UNICEF values and ethical standards.Teamwork: Ability to work effectively across teams, cultures, and professional backgrounds.Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication and presentation skills.Planning and Organisation: Ability to manage competing priorities, coordinate multiple assignments, and meet deadlines.Relationship Management: Ability to build effective partnerships and work with diverse stakeholders.Flexibility: Ability to adapt to changing work requirements and demanding conditions.Continuous Learning: Initiative, adaptability, and commitment to professional development.Commitment to volunteerism, solidarity, compassion, reciprocity, and self-reliance.Commitment to UNICEF's mission, vision, and the UN Core Values.DUTIES AND KEY RESPONSIBILITIES1. Strategic Communication Planning and StorytellingDevelop and implement