Consultant Communication Officer

Introduction

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

Project Context and Scope

Established in 1951, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a Related Organization of the United Nations, and as the leading UN agency in the field of migration, works closely with governmental, intergovernmental and non-governmental partners. IOM is dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all.

According to the Notre Dame Global Adaptation Initiative (ND-GAIN) index, Madagascar is among the least prepared countries to deal with climate shocks, ranking 174th out of 181 countries. Deforestation is critical: it is estimated that 30% of forests have been lost since 2001, and the province of Toamasina alone accounts for 55% of national forest losses. The municipality of Andasibe presents a strategic paradox: as a global biodiversity centre home to the endemic Indri Indri and the Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, Madagascar's leading ecotourism destination, it is facing accelerated deforestation linked to a strong dependence on wood energy.

This dynamic is compounded by the pronounced landlocked nature of many fokontany, some of which are hamlets, located up to 12 km from the communal capital, are only accessible on foot. Deprived of regular access to markets, basic services and employment opportunities, rural households are turning to charcoal and firewood as immediately accessible sources of income; internal migration flows to the park area are increasing this pressure.

In response to this challenge, IOM is implementing a pilot programme titled “Integrated Territorial Model of Andasibe: Clean Cooking, Reforestation, and Rural Roads” articulating the transition to clean cooking, ecological restoration and rural access planning. Aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 7 and 13, the National Clean Cooking Development Policy, the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) and the National Strategy and Action Plan for Biodiversity (NBSAP), the project aims to constitute a model that can be replicated at the national level.
Organizational Department / Unit to which the Consultant is contributing
Under the direct supervision of the Programme Officer in Madagascar and in close coordination with relevant units at IOM Madagascar, the Communication consultant will be responsible and accountable for developing and implementing communication, visibility and public information activities in support of IOM Madagascar’s project. The successful candidate will ensure effective dissemination of information on IOM’s interventions, strengthen the Organization’s visibility among key stakeholders, and support the production of communication materials, media engagement, digital content and advocacy initiatives.

Required Qualifications and Experience

Education

- Master’s degree in Journalism, Communications, or a related field from an accredited academic institution with two years of relevant professional experience; or,
- University degree in one of the above fields with four years of relevant professional experience.

Experience

- Experience as a writer, editor and content producer/manager in Journalism and/or public information roles, preferably in the Region;
- Experience in digital communications and social media;
- Experience in corporate writing and editing;
- Experience in managing donor visibility;
- Experience with media liaison;
- Experience in humanitarian communications;
- Experience in working in UN or other International organizations.

Skills

- Skills in graphic design, particularly using Adobe programmes an advantage;
- Skills in photography and videography, both shooting and editing an advantage;
- Demonstrated gender awareness and gender sensitivity;
- High level of professionalism and ability to work under pressure and adhere to strict deadlines in a complex and fast changing environment; and,
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively and harmoniously with colleagues from varied cultures and professional backgrounds.

Languages

For this consultancy, Malagasy, french and English are required.

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

Travel required

Travel to other provinces of Madagascar to document field level activities might be required.

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 five 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.
- Courage : Demonstrates willingness to take a stand on issues of importance.
- Empathy : Shows compassion for others, makes people feel safe, respected and fairly treated.

Core Competencies – behavioural indicators

- Teamwork : Develops and promotes effective collaboration within and across units to achieve shared goals and optimize results.
- Delivering results : Produces and delivers quality results in a service-oriented and timely manner. Is action oriented and committed to achieving agreed outcomes.
- Managing and sharing knowledge : Continuously seeks to learn, share knowledge and innovate.
- Accountability : Takes ownership for achieving the Organization’s priorities and assumes responsibility for own actions and delegated work.
- Communication : Encourages and contributes to clear and open communication. Explains complex matters in an informative, inspiring and motivational way.

Notes

IOM covers Consultants against occupational accidents and illnesses under the Compensation Plan (CP), free of charge, for the duration of the consultancy. IOM does not provide evacuation or medical insurance for reasons related to non-occupational accidents and illnesses. Consultants are responsible for their own medical insurance for non-occupational accident or illness and will be required to provide written proof of such coverage before commencing work.

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

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