Consultant Writer (State of the World’s Children 2017)

Job from UN Children's Fund
Closing date: 17 Jan 2017


Background and Context

The Division of Communication (DOC) is committed to the development and production of UNICEF publications and other materials of high quality for use in communication and advocacy activities. In November 2017, UNICEF will publish the 37th edition of The State of the World's Children (SOWC), the organization's annual flagship publication which every year closely examines a key issue affecting children. The 2017 edition of SOWC will look at children in the digital age and will examine a broad range of issues from a global perspective. These include children's access to and use of the internet and information and communication technologies (ICTs), digital divides, online safety, online opportunities for expression and education, and the impact of digital technologies on children's wellbeing.

Scope of work and main Responsibilities

Under the general guidance of the Editor in the Strategic Planning and Communication Support section, the Consultant Writer (SOWC) is responsible for writing a concise narrative of around 20,000 to 25,000 words that effectively draws on both specially commissioned and other research on the main themes of the report. The narrative will reflect the multifaceted nature of the issues under examination, presenting both the opportunities that digital technologies present for the realization of children's rights as well as the risks. It will set out some of the future perspectives on these themes and deliver a clear and strong set of policy messages.

The Consultant Writer will:

Draft the text based on a detailed outline and research materials provided by the Editor.
Working with the Editor, coordinate with DOC to align the report's messaging with UNICEF communications strategies.
Deliver a first-draft manuscript to be reviewed by UNICEF with feedback provided for the consultant's additional action.
Deliver the second and final draft by 20 July 2016.
Cite the sources of all statements of fact in footnotes, with full bibliographical references, in both drafts
Make himself/herself available to respond to any queries that may arise during the editing, fact-checking and final review of the draft.

Required qualifications and work experience:
University degree in social sciences or related technical field
At least ten (10) years of progressively advanced work experience as a senior writer or editor on publications (long form) for purposes of advocacy, with non-specialized audiences
English mother tongue or equivalent level
Demonstrated outstanding writing and editing skills in English
Ability to effectively grasp and incorporate inputs/feedback from multiple contributors
Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of international development, including child rights
Previous working experience with UNICEF and/or another international development organization is desirable.
Significant prior experience and understanding of international development
Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the United Nations and its specialized agencies (i.e., UNICEF)
Proven research, analytical thinking and strategic planning skills
Ability to interpret data and to effectively analyze and communicate findings and trends
Extensive experience of writing and editing for diverse audiences and outlets
Excellent references/recommendations from previous clients (references will be checked)

Quality requirements:
Drafts produced will be of good quality overall, comprehensible to a broad audience, coherent and complete, and written to high editorial and publishing standards
Drafts and other outputs will be produced in a timely manner
The consultant's specific expertise, knowledge and experience is reflected in outputs (value added)
The final output (second draft) will benefit from a consultative process between the consultant and UNICEF

Required competencies:
Superior writing and editing skills, acquired over a minimum of 10 years of professional experience
Highest-level communication skills
Ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment
Sets high standards for quality of work and consistently achieves project goals
Quickly builds rapport with individuals and groups; maintains an effective network of contacts and partners across organizational departments
Translates strategic direction into plans and objectives
Negotiates effectively by exploring a range of possibilities
Demonstrates and shares detailed technical knowledge and expertise
Seeks and proposes opportunities for advancing UNICEF's mission

How to apply:

UNICEF is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages qualified female and male candidates from all national, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons living with disabilities, to apply to become a part of our organization. To apply, click on the following link http://www.unicef.org/about/employ/?job=502128

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