Media and Communications Associate

Established in 1951, IOM is a Related Organization of the United Nations and the leading UN agency in the field of migration. Working closely with governmental, intergovernmental and non-governmental partners, IOM promotes humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. It saves lives and protects people on the move, drives solutions to displacement, and facilitates pathways for regular migration, while providing services and advice to governments and migrants. 

IOM is committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive and supportive workplace where all employees can thrive professionally and feel valued. By creating such an environment, IOM aims to better harness the full potential of migration and strengthen its support to people on the move.

IOM invites candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply and provides reasonable accommodation throughout the recruitment process when required. Learn more about IOM’s workplace culture at IOM workplace culture | International Organization for Migration

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 and internal-equivalent candidates are considered as first-tier candidates.

Under the overall supervision of the Chief of Mission (CoM) in Panama and the direct supervision of the National Project Officer (Migration Management), and, in collaboration with relevant units at Headquarters, Regional Offices, the Media and Communications Associate will be responsible and accountable for supporting the management of the media and communications functions in the office.

1. Assist in the implementation and monitoring of communication activities; as well as provide support in the organization and execution of events.

2. Support the implementation of communication strategies both internal and external to the organization, both in the County Office, as well as the development of the digital component.

3. Assist in the execution of promotion and visibility campaigns for the different products and lines of work of the Programs, with counterparts and the media.

4. Assist in the creation of life stories of migrants, and in the basic editing of institutional and promotional videos.

5. Assist in the writing and production of public material for IOM press releases, websites and social media, such as the management of social networks in the coordination and editing of digital content (web page, YouTube, Instagram, and social media)

6. Draft and distribute content such as newsletters and press releases.

7. Know and follow the IOM style and brand guidelines.

8. Proactively and creatively identify new actions that align with the objectives of the Regional Communication Strategy.

9. Support the updating of articles, press conferences, events, media lists, etc. and in updating the web page of the IOM Panama.

10. Participate in interagency coordination meetings on communication matters, as assigned. 

11. Any other functions assigned by the direct supervisor and the Chief of Mission.
     

• High School diploma with four years of relevant experience; or, 

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, Information Management or related field with two years of relevant professional experience.

Accredited Universities are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database.

• Experience in the area of communication, advertising, public relations or journalism.

• Theoretical and practical handling of the gender approach, interculturality and human rights, and communication for development.

• Experience in the usage of Microsoft Office software packages (MS Word, Excel, etc.) and knowledge of spreadsheet and data analysis.

• Familiarity with the broad range of migration related subject areas dealt with by the Organization; and,

• Knowledge of UN and communications / brand guidelines.

All IOM staff members in all categories are required to be fluent in one of the IOM's official languages (English, French, Spanish).

For this position, fluency in Spanish and English is required (oral and written). 

Proficiency of language(s) required will be specifically evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments.

IOM’s competency framework can be found at this link. Competencies will be assessed during the selection process.

Please refer to this link for guidance on IOM Job Category.

Any offer made to the candidate in relation to this vacancy notice is subject to funding confirmation.

This selection process may be used to staff similar positions in various duty stations. Recommended candidates will remain eligible to be appointed in a similar position for a period of 24 months.

Appointment will be subject to certification that the candidate is medically fit for appointment, accreditation, any residency or visa requirements, security clearances.

IOM has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and IOM, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination based on gender, nationality, age, race, sexual orientation, religious or ethnic background or disabilities.

IOM does not charge a fee at any stage of its recruitment process (application, interview, processing, training or other fee). IOM does not request any information related to bank accounts.

IOM only accepts duly completed applications submitted through the IOM e-Recruitment system (for internal candidates link here). The online tool also allows candidates to track the status of their application.

No late applications will be accepted. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

For further information and other job postings, you are welcome to visit our website: IOM Careers and Job Vacancies