United Nations Foundation
Position Title: Communications Manager, Media and Content
Employment Type: Full-Time
Location: Washington, D.C. (Hybrid schedule)
Position Overview
The United Nations Foundation is seeking a highly skilled and creative Communications Manager, Media and Content, to join our dynamic Global Communications and Engagement team. This pivotal role requires an individual with a keen editorial eye, a passion for storytelling, and the ability to work collaboratively across teams. The successful candidate will possess a nuanced understanding of UN and UN Foundation issues and priorities, with the ability to elevate these topics through engaging media and content strategies targeted at diverse audiences concerned with global affairs and international cooperation.
In this role, you will be responsible for translating complex, technical information into compelling narratives that highlight the impact and work of the UN and the Foundation. Your efforts will encompass a broad spectrum of content formats — from blog posts, press releases, and marketing materials to social media campaigns and website content. You will play a key role in developing and executing strategic communications plans designed to advance organizational priorities, shape editorial and media strategies, and promote the Foundation’s initiatives and leadership.
You will also serve as a vital point of contact for media inquiries, support media engagement efforts, and collaborate closely with subject matter experts, creative teams, and leadership to ensure messaging consistency and effectiveness. The position reports directly to the Director of Media and Content and works in tandem with the Communications Officer, Media and Content, to manage media and editorial pipelines.
Essential Functions
- Strategic Planning & Content Development: Partner with the Director to maintain an active editorial calendar, craft media strategies, and develop innovative content ideas aligned with organizational goals.
- Content Creation & Editing: Write, edit, and produce high-quality content across multiple formats—including blogs, newsletters, social media posts, website content, press materials, messaging guides, and marketing collateral—ensuring clarity, accuracy, and engagement.
- Subject Matter Collaboration: Build and nurture relationships with internal and external subject matter experts on issues such as climate change, global health, gender equality, multilateralism, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Collaborate to create authoritative content tailored for various audiences.
- Research & Fact-Checking: Conduct comprehensive research, interviews, and due diligence to produce factually accurate, compelling editorial content that effectively communicates complex topics.
- Content Strategy & Pitching: Proactively develop and pitch ideas for engaging, attention-grabbing content across Foundation platforms, aligning with current trends and audience interests.
- Media Engagement & Relations: Assist in shaping media engagement strategies, pitch op-eds and stories to journalists, handle incoming media inquiries, and support media monitoring efforts. Develop talking points, messaging guides, and briefing materials for UN Foundation leadership to ensure consistent and impactful media appearances.
- Team Collaboration & Coordination: Work closely with creative and content teams to execute strategic communication plans that promote the UN and Foundation’s work. Maintain familiarity with the Foundation’s editorial and storytelling standards and guidelines.
- Trend Monitoring & Learning: Stay informed on the latest trends in media, storytelling, and digital engagement to continuously improve content quality and reach. Share insights and best practices with the team.
- Additional Responsibilities: Perform other duties as assigned to support the overall communication objectives of the Foundation.
Selection Criteria
- Experience: 5 to 8 years of progressive experience in communications, media relations, and editorial content creation, ideally within a global affairs, political, or NGO context.
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in English, Journalism, Political Science, Communications, International Affairs, or a related field.
- Knowledge & Expertise: Familiarity with the United Nations, multilateral diplomacy, and issues such as climate change, global health, gender equality, and human rights is highly preferred.
- Communication Skills: Demonstrated ability to develop and execute strategic communication plans and tactics, with fluency in both high-level strategy and hands-on tactical execution.
- Writing & Editorial Skills: Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills, with mastery of AP style. Ability to craft content quickly across diverse formats, from social media and web to long-form features and op-eds.
- Technical Proficiency: Experience with media monitoring and outreach tools such as Cision, Meltwater, or TV Eyes. Strong research and fact-checking skills.
- Collaboration & Interpersonal Skills: Ability to work effectively with issue experts, creative teams, and senior leaders. Capable of inspiring confidence across all levels of the organization.
- Adaptability & Project Management: Comfortable managing multiple projects under tight deadlines, with excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Travel: Willingness to undertake domestic and international travel up to 10%, as needed.
- Additional Requirements: Must provide verifiable writing samples, and a writing test will be part of the interview process.
Benefits & Compensation
The UN Foundation offers a comprehensive benefits package to full-time, benefit-eligible employees, including:
- Choice of two health plans (PPO or HDHP with HSA) through UnitedHealthcare
- Dental and vision insurance
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
- 403(b) retirement plan with generous matching contributions
- Group term and supplemental life insurance
- Short-term and long-term disability coverage
- Commuter subsidy and backup care services
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Paid Time Off & Leave:
- 12 paid holidays annually
- 20 vacation days
- 10 sick days
- 3 personal days
- 8 weeks of family leave and caregiving leave
This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to impactful global initiatives by shaping the narrative around critical issues at the intersection of international development, human rights, and climate action. If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for storytelling and a commitment to global affairs, we encourage you to apply.
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