PURPOSE OF THE POST:

Under the guidance of the Communications Specialist (Polio), Advocacy and Communication Section and with regular input and strategic direction from both the Chief, Advocacy and Communication Section and the Chief, Polio Section, responsible for the development, planning, coordination, implementation and monitoring of media and advocacy strategies at the national level to support polio eradication in Pakistan.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Supports the development and implementation of a measurable and time-bound annual media and advocacy work plan in support of the Polio Eradication Initiative (PEI), based on external communications and media audits undertaken within Pakistan. In implementing the annual work plan, develops, maintains, and implements a rolling quarterly media and advocacy calendar for PEI, indicating upcoming key events and opportunities that may be relevant to PEI, and propose specific proactive interventions with time line, action points, and accountabilities.
• Manages media queries related to the Polio Eradication Initiative and coordinates with partners on the sharing of information and data on polio epidemiology, eradication initiatives and programme implementation with media. Upon request, serves as a UNICEF media spokesperson on polio eradication. Develops and supports implementation of media crisis strategies in relation to polio issues and partners in the Polio Eradication Initiative. Ensures that partners in the Polio Eradication Initiative are equipped with appropriate tools and materials to respond to and mitigate negative media coverage (eg. Q&As, holding lines, fact sheets, key messages).
• Develops new media relationships and strengthens existing contacts with international and national media, including professional media associations. Develops and sustains partnerships with health and medical associations and other civil society groups to promote polio eradication through the media. Conducts and support media sensitization workshops, briefings and meetings at the national and provincial level, in consultation with provincial offices[MC1].
• Pitches stories on polio eradication, including success and challenges, to international and national media in line with PEI priorities. Identifies and researches story and media opportunities and develops media materials (text, photos, video, etc) about polio. Coordinates and leads media visits to sites relevant to the Polio Eradication Initiative, especially during anti-polio campaign dates.
• Closely coordinates with provincial polio media officers and Islamabad-based polio media officer. Provides structured support to the provincial offices on media management and advocacy on polio. Provides capacity development and guidance to polio media officers.
• Manages the conceptualization, development and implementation of an annual media campaign in support of National Immunization Days and Sub-National Immunization Days with focus on unpaid content, including the production of appropriate media materials (eg. briefing kits, media releases, background notes, etc). Finds opportunities for media outlets to support mass media campaigns.
• Develops and provides regular internal briefings and intelligence on the Pakistan and international media environment in the context of advocacy and communication activities and opportunities for the polio partnership.
• Develops a plan for celebrity engagement in the polio programme and work to ensure the regular participation and involvement of influential celebrities in the programme. Coordinates media briefings and ensure appropriate media coverage of events involving celebrities to improve positive reporting and visibility of the polio programme.

LANGUAGES
Well developed oral and written English and Urdu. Knowledge of Pashto and other regional languages is an asset.

COMPETENCIES
Current knowledge of development issues and policies, as well as programming policies and procedures in international development cooperation, specifically as it relates to child health, immunization and polio eradication.
Analytical, influencing, negotiating, communication and advocacy skills
Capacity development skills.
Writing skills and skills in clear expression of ideas.
Proven ability to effectively manage relationships with media representatives, government officials and other UNICEF partners.
Graphic design, web-based communication, film and audio communication skills established, computer skills, including internet navigation, and various office applications.
Demonstrated ability to work in a multicultural environment, and establish harmonious and effective working relationships, both within and outside the organization.