UNICEF UKRAINE

Programme Communication Specialist (Immunization), L-4, TFT

September 2008 – June 2009

TERMS OF REFERENCE

The communication programme on immunization intends to restore public trust and bring vaccination to the top of people’s health agenda. It will address behavioural and social barriers, counter public fear and build trust in immunization services. The programme will aim at building confidence among health workers in their ability to save people of Ukraine from infectious diseases and to counter-attack the anti-vaccination forces.

PURPOSE OF THE POST

Under the supervision of the Head of Office will be responsible for implementation of a strategic communication programme that is to address behavioural and social barriers, counter public fear and build trust in immunization services.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• In close collaboration with WHO and CDC Atlanta participates in the formulation and development of strategic communication framework to restore public trust in vaccination.

• Provides technical support for the implementation of the communication programme to restore public trust in immunization in Ukraine and to UNICEF staff, Government, and non-government organizations at the national, regional and provincial levels in the planning, implementation and monitoring and evaluation of the Campaign.

• In collaboration with partners, organizes/manages the formative research, development, pre-testing and production of communication materials for print and electronic media, positioning vaccination as an ultimate solution to control diseases to ensure effective and efficient programme delivery, including facilitating behaviour change, where necessary.

• Monitors and evaluates activities on the basis of applied communication research and frequent visits to project sites.

• Ensures widespread awareness of international experience of UNICEF and other reputable international organizations and best practice in Immunization pertinent to the situation in Ukraine. Documents and shares Ukrainian experience both regionally and globally.

• Develops training materials and activities to build capacity in participatory and behaviour communication at various government levels in support of programme sustainability.

• Provides technical support to government counterparts in the development and appropriate use of communication for social development, aimed at both individual behaviour change and collective actions.

QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPETENCIES REQUIRED

(a) EDUCATION

Advanced university degree in the social/behavioural sciences, (Sociology, Anthropology, Psychology, Health Education) with emphasis on participatory communication, communication planning, social mobilization, participatory research, training and impact evaluation of communication interventions.

(b) WORK EXPERIENCE

A minimum of eight years progressively responsible work experience in the planning and management of social development programmes, including four years in developing countries, with practical experience in the adaptation and application of communication planning processes to specific programmes.

(c) LANGUAGES

Fluency in English. Knowledge of Russian or Ukrainian desirable.

(d) COMPETENCIES

• Knowledge of current developments in the fields of communication theory, motivational psychology, adult learning theory, indigenous media, community organization and participation.
• Training in strategic communication planning, behaviour analysis, formative research and evaluation of communication interventions.
• Proven skills in communication, networking, advocacy and negotiation.
• Ability to organize and implement training, including development of curricula and methodologies.
• Proven ability to conceptualize, develop, plan and manage programmes, as well as to impart knowledge and teach skills.
• Leadership and teamwork abilities. Strong inter-personal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a multi-cultural environment and establish harmonious and effective working relationships both within and outside UNICEF.
• Demonstrated resource mobilisation skills.
• Computer skills, including internet navigation and various office applications.

Applicants that fulfil the above requirements are requested to complete a United Nations Personal History Form (P. 11) and submit it together with a resume/CV and a cover letter describing your professional interests in working for UNICEF.

If you have got experience of working in a similar capacity and want to make an active and lasting contribution to build a better world for children, send a detailed curriculum vitae in English, AND a duly completed United Nations Personal History form

(available at www.unicef.org/employ), quoting “Programme Communication Officer — Immunization” to: recruitment_kiev@unicef.org

Applications should be received by 20 August 2008. Only candidates who are under serious consideration will be contacted. The successful candidate will be offered a temporary appointment for a period of 10 months.