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Regional Communications Associate

UNDP
Full-time
On-site
Kazakhstan
πŸ“£ Marketing Communications (MarCom)

πŸ“Œ Core Information

πŸ”Ή Job Title: Regional Communications Associate

πŸ”Ή Company: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

πŸ”Ή Location: Almaty, Kazakhstan

πŸ”Ή Job Type: Full time

πŸ”Ή Category: Communications & Public Relations

πŸ”Ή Date Posted: April 30, 2025

πŸ”Ή Experience Level: 5-10 years

πŸ”Ή Remote Status: On-site

πŸš€ Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

  • Developing and implementing communication strategies to enhance project visibility
  • Coordinating with various stakeholders, including UNDP offices, national partners, and media outlets
  • Creating and disseminating project-related visibility materials, such as news posts, press releases, and promotional materials
  • Supporting the Regional Project Manager in developing the Scaling Up and Replication Strategy of the Project
  • Ensuring wide coverage of project events in the media and maintaining a consistent and professional image for the project and its partners

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a high level of communication, coordination, and project management skills, as well as a strong understanding of the regional context and cultural sensitivities.

πŸ“‹ Key Responsibilities

βœ… Prepare and disseminate all project-related visibility materials, including news posts, press releases, newsletters, infographics, success stories, and promotional materials

βœ… Ensure that information and visibility materials demonstrate the impact of the Donor (Government of Japan) and UNDP’s initiatives on the most vulnerable groups

βœ… Create and ensure the coverage/update of the project activities/events on the partners’ resources, UNDP national and global web-portals, national and international media sources, including social networks

βœ… Support the Regional Project Manager to develop the Scaling Up and Replication Strategy of the Project

βœ… Collect and integrate project data into periodic documents (Newsletters) with Project results, including follow-up and updates related to the Results Framework

βœ… Ensure wide coverage of events in the media through involvement of representatives from print and broadcast mass media to these events

βœ… In cooperation with CA Country offices, ensure translation of the main project press-releases, news, bulletins, follow-up stories to following languages (Mandatory: English, Russian, optional: Kazakh, Kyrgyz, Tadjik, Turkmen and Uzbek languages)

βœ… Ensure that all communication materials adhere to branding guidelines, maintaining a consistent and professional image for the project and its partners

βœ… Support project events and workshops, including materials and promotion to ensure successful execution and visibility

βœ… Create engaging content for various platforms, including videos, logos, podcasts, and blogs, to showcase project activities and success stories in diverse formats

βœ… Support any other relevant tasks as required by the project manager and the UNDP IRH CDT team

ASSUMPTION: This role requires strong communication, project management, and multitasking skills, as well as the ability to work effectively with various stakeholders.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: Secondary education is required. OR Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Journalism, Public Relations, Communications, Public Administration, International Relations, Public Policy, Economics, Development Studies, or any related field will be given due consideration, but it is not a requirement.

Experience: Minimum 7 years (with secondary education) or 4 years (with bachelor’s degree) of relevant work experience in the field of Public Relations, Outreach, and Media Communication is required.

Required Skills:

  • Proven track record of excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Experience in developing visual and multimedia content
  • Prior experience in the Central Asian region in a similar position and understanding of regional cultural sensitivities and nuances

Preferred Skills:

  • Experience and knowledge of branding and messaging consistency
  • Experience working in/with local and international journalism
  • Demonstrated ability to work in stressful conditions and to meet tight deadlines
  • Demonstrated ability to use information technologies as a tool and resource
  • Familiarity with design and multimedia tools (Canva, Adobe Suite, etc.)
  • Demonstrated experience in speechwriting

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strong combination of communication, project management, and technical skills, as well as a deep understanding of the regional context and cultural sensitivities.

πŸ’° Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Salary information is not provided. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a Communications Associate at UNDP is approximately $45,000 - $60,000 per year. However, this can vary depending on experience and location.

Benefits:

  • Health insurance
  • Retirement plans
  • Generous vacation and leave policies
  • Professional development opportunities

Working Hours: Full-time position with standard UNDP working hours (40 hours per week)

ASSUMPTION: Salary information is not provided, so the range is estimated based on industry standards and Glassdoor data. Benefits are based on typical UNDP employee benefits.

πŸ“Œ Applicant Insights

πŸ” Company Context

Industry: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global development network advocating for change and connecting countries to knowledge, experience, and resources to help people build a better life. UNDP is on the ground in about 170 countries and territories, working with governments and communities on their own solutions to global and national development challenges.

Company Size: UNDP is a large organization with over 10,000 employees worldwide, providing ample opportunities for career growth and development.

Founded: UNDP was established in 1965 as the United Nations Expanded Programme of Technical Assistance, and later became the United Nations Development Programme in 1971.

Company Description:

  • UNDP works in nearly 170 countries and territories, helping to achieve the eradication of poverty, and the reduction of inequalities and exclusion
  • UNDP helps countries to develop policies, leadership skills, partnering abilities, institutional capabilities, and build resilience in order to sustain development results
  • UNDP is committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030

Company Specialties:

  • Democratic Governance
  • Crisis Prevention and Recovery
  • Poverty Reduction
  • Environment and Energy
  • Social inclusion and sustainable development
  • Peacebuilding
  • Climate

Company Website: http://www.undp.org

ASSUMPTION: UNDP is a large, global organization with a broad range of expertise and experience in international development. Its mission and values are deeply rooted in the principles of the United Nations.

πŸ“Š Role Analysis

Career Level: This role is at the mid-career level, requiring a significant amount of experience and expertise in communications and project management.

Reporting Structure: The Regional Communications Associate reports directly to the Regional Project Manager and works closely with UNDP Istanbul Regional Hub (IRH) and UNDP Kazakhstan staff, as well as with national project teams in all five UNDP programme countries responsible for the implementation of the project.

Work Arrangement: This is an on-site position based in Almaty, Kazakhstan, with potential travel to other Central Asian countries as needed.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Potential for career growth within UNDP, including opportunities to take on more senior roles or specialize in specific areas of interest
  • Opportunities to work on high-profile projects and gain experience in international development
  • Possibility to gain experience working in a regional context and with diverse cultural backgrounds

ASSUMPTION: This role offers significant opportunities for career growth and development within the United Nations system and the broader international development field.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: UNDP offices are typically modern, professional work environments with a focus on collaboration and innovation.

Office Location(s): Almaty, Kazakhstan

Geographic Context:

  • Almaty is the largest city in Kazakhstan, with a population of over 1.8 million people
  • Almaty is located in the southeastern part of Kazakhstan, near the border with China and Kyrgyzstan
  • Almaty has a continental climate, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters

Work Schedule: Standard UNDP working hours (40 hours per week), with potential flexibility for remote work or adjusted hours as needed.

ASSUMPTION: Almaty offers a dynamic, multicultural work environment with a high quality of life and ample opportunities for professional growth and development.

πŸ’Ό Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

  • Online application submission through the UNDP careers portal
  • Phone or video screening with the UNDP Human Resources team
  • In-depth interview with the Regional Project Manager and other relevant stakeholders
  • Background and reference checks
  • Final decision and job offer

Key Assessment Areas:

  • Communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Project management and organizational skills
  • Cultural sensitivity and understanding of the regional context
  • Technical skills, including multimedia content development and design
  • Ability to work effectively with various stakeholders

Application Tips:

  • Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this specific role
  • Demonstrate your understanding of the regional context and cultural sensitivities in your application materials
  • Showcase your portfolio or examples of your work, if applicable
  • Follow up with the UNDP Human Resources team one week after submitting your application, if you have not heard back

ATS Keywords: communications, public relations, media relations, social media management, writing and editing, branding, project management, event coordination, translation, knowledge management, Central Asia, Kazakhstan, Almaty, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

ASSUMPTION: The application process for this role is competitive, and applicants should tailor their application materials to highlight their relevant experience and skills for this specific role.

πŸ› οΈ Tools & Technologies

  • Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
  • Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)
  • Canva
  • Social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn)
  • Content management systems (CMS) and web publishing platforms
  • Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, Microsoft Project)

ASSUMPTION: This role requires proficiency in a range of communication and project management tools, as well as familiarity with social media platforms and content management systems.

πŸ‘” Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

  • Demonstrate a commitment to the United Nations' core values, including integrity, professionalism, and respect for diversity
  • Show a strong commitment to the mission and vision of UNDP
  • Demonstrate a willingness to work collaboratively and effectively with diverse stakeholders

Work Style:

  • Adaptable and flexible, with a willingness to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain effective working relationships
  • Proactive and self-motivated, with a strong sense of initiative and ownership
  • Culturally sensitive and aware, with a deep understanding of the regional context and cultural nuances

Self-Assessment Questions:

  • How do you align with UNDP's core values and commitment to the United Nations' mission?
  • How do you approach working collaboratively and effectively with diverse stakeholders, including those from different cultural backgrounds?
  • How do you adapt your communication style and approach to different audiences and contexts?

ASSUMPTION: UNDP values diversity and inclusion, and seeks candidates who can thrive in a multicultural work environment and contribute to its mission and values.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

  • Working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with tight deadlines and competing priorities
  • Navigating complex organizational structures and stakeholder relationships
  • Adapting to cultural differences and working effectively in a regional context
  • Managing multiple projects and tasks simultaneously, with a high degree of autonomy and responsibility
  • Dealing with sensitive or controversial topics and maintaining a professional and neutral stance

ASSUMPTION: This role presents unique challenges and opportunities for growth and development, and requires a high degree of adaptability, resilience, and cultural sensitivity.

πŸ“ˆ Similar Roles Comparison

  • Compared to other communications roles in international development, this role places a strong emphasis on regional cooperation and partnership, as well as innovative approaches to urban planning
  • This role requires a high degree of cultural sensitivity and understanding of the regional context, as well as strong project management and communication skills
  • Career paths in international development can vary widely, depending on the specific organization, role, and individual goals and interests

ASSUMPTION: This role offers a unique opportunity to gain experience in regional communications and project management in the context of international development, with potential for career growth and development within the United Nations system and the broader field.

πŸ“ Sample Projects

  • Developing and implementing a comprehensive communication strategy for a high-profile international development project, including branding, messaging, and multimedia content
  • Coordinating with various stakeholders, including government officials, local communities, and international partners, to ensure effective communication and knowledge management
  • Managing the production and dissemination of project-related visibility materials, including news posts, press releases, and promotional materials
  • Supporting the development of a Scaling Up and Replication Strategy for the project, including research, analysis, and strategic planning

ASSUMPTION: These sample projects illustrate the range of responsibilities and skills required for this role, as well as the opportunity to work on high-profile, impactful initiatives in international development.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

  • What are the key priorities for this role in the first 90 days?
  • How does this role fit into the broader organizational structure and strategic goals of UNDP?
  • What are the main challenges and opportunities facing the project and the region?
  • How does UNDP support the professional development and growth of its employees?
  • What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) for this role, and how will my success be measured?

ASSUMPTION: Asking thoughtful, insightful questions demonstrates your interest in the role and organization, and provides valuable information to help you make an informed decision about your career.

πŸ“Œ Next Steps for Applicants

To apply for this position:

  • Submit your application through the UNDP careers portal at http://www.undp.org/careers
  • Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this specific role
  • Prepare a portfolio or examples of your work, if applicable, to showcase your skills and accomplishments
  • Follow up with the UNDP Human Resources team one week after submitting your application, if you have not heard back
  • Prepare for phone or video screening and in-depth interviews, focusing on your communication, project management, and cultural sensitivity skills

⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.