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.  

​​Following the rapid political shift in Damascus on 8 December 2024, Syria is undergoing a critical period of transformation. The transition has been marked by escalating tensions with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), renewed regional disputes, and growing concerns over a potential resurgence of other groups. These developments have further intensified displacement across the country and complicated the dynamics of return, placing increased pressure on already vulnerable communities. 

​In response to the evolving situation, IOM has re-established its presence in Damascus and is rapidly scaling up emergency operations across the country, while maintaining cross-border assistance in northwest Syria. To meet urgent humanitarian needs, this response aims to assist 1.1 million people with life-saving support, including shelter, winterization, health care, protection services, camp coordination and management, and early recovery assistance. 

​Under the overall supervision of the Chief of Mission (COM) for Syria and direct supervision of the Programme Support Unit (PSU) Coordinator, and in close collaboration with the relevant units at the Regional Office and Headquarters (HQ), the National Communications Officer will be responsible and accountable for supporting the implementation of media and communications-related activities in IOM Syria.

1. Assist in the implementation of the CO’s external communications strategy in line with IOM’s strategic communications priorities and guidance, by assisting in the preparation of materials and outreach activities aimed at promoting an accurate narrative on migration-related issues.
2. Contribute to the preparation of media content on current and emerging issues and support the development of Media Lines to Take in crisis situations with the PSU Coordinator, and relevant colleagues from the Regional Office and HQ.
3. Support the implementation of communication activities by assisting in the preparation and review of internal and external materials, ensuring consistency with IOM’s communications standards and guidelines.
4. Coordinate with Media and Communications team members (e.g., Social Media, Graphic Design, Audio-Visual) to support the production of content that aligns with IOM’s brand and quality standards. 
5. Support communications capacity-building efforts in the CO by assisting in organizing trainings, developing guidance tools and providing basic advice to field teams on communication-related tasks.
6. Assist in organizing visibility events and media-related engagements, including scheduling interviews, drafting talking points, and supporting the preparation of speeches and communication materials (including UN days). 
7. Support the maintenance of the CO’s online presence by assisting with updates to social media accounts and website content, following established guidelines to help enhance the CO’s digital outreach.
8. Maintain and update media contact lists, assist in responding to media queries, and support the drafting of press releases, media kits, and other outreach materials.
9. Under the guidance of the supervisor, prepare key messages, talking points, and background documents in close coordination with colleagues from the Regional Office and HQ. 
10. Support engagement with the UN Country Team’s Communication Group and other relevant stakeholders in developing media messages on joint issues of concern, in coordination with the supervisor.
11. Undertake duty travel to collect photos, video footage, and other multi-media content to showcase the humanitarian situation and IOM field activities.
12. Support efforts to ensure that gender, diversity, and inclusion considerations are reflected in all IOM external communications.
13. Perform such other duties as may be assigned. Education
    • Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Information Management, or related field from an accredited academic institution with two years of relevant professional experience; or,
    • Master’s degree in above or related field. Accredited Universities are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database.   Experience
      • Experience in media, communications, journalism, public information, or a related field.
      • Prior work experience with international humanitarian organizations, non-government or government institutions/organization in a multi-cultural setting is an advantage. Skills
        • Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines in a fast-paced, complex environment.
        • Strong interpersonal skills and teamwork skills; ability to work effectively and harmoniously with colleagues from diverse backgrounds.
        • Strong writing and editing skills.
        • Excellent multimedia skills (e.g., photography, videography and/or graphic design).
        • Online communication and social media skills.
        • Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (e.g., Word, Excel, PowerPoint, E-mail, Outlook); previous experience in SAP is a distinct advantage.
        • Attention to detail, ability to organize paperwork in a methodical way. 

          Discreet, details and clients-oriented, patient and willingness to learn new things.

          Languages
          • For this position, fluency in English and Arabic is required (oral and written). 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.   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.
    • Courage: Demonstrates willingness to take a stand on issues of importance.
14. Empathy: Shows compassion for others, makes people feel safe, respected and fairly treated. Core Competencies – behavioural indicators (Level 2)
15. Teamwork: Develops and promotes effective collaboration within and across units to achieve shared goals and optimize results.