Result of ServiceThe consultant will support ECA’s Strategic Planning, Oversight and Results Division (SPORD) in enhancing its communication capacity, particularly in the development and dissemination of the annual report, quarterly bulletin and other relevant communication and advocacy materials and tasks. Work LocationAddis Ababa Expected durationSix (6) months Duties and ResponsibilitiesBackground The Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) is one of the five regional commissions of the United Nations mandated to promote inclusive and sustainable economic and social development of Africa. ECA’s mission is to deliver ideas into actions for an empowered and transformed Africa; informed by the 2030 Agenda and Agenda 2063. The mission will be guided by ECA’s five new strategic directions: advancing ECA’s position as a premier knowledge policy institution on the Continent; developing macroeconomic and structural policy options to accelerate economic diversification and job creation; designing and implementing innovative financing models for infrastructure, and for human, physical and social assets for a transforming Africa; contributing solutions to regional and transboundary challenges, with a focus on peace security and social inclusion as an important development nexus; advocating Africa’s position at the global level and developing regional responses as a contribution to global governance issues. The Strategic Planning, Oversight and Results Division (SPORD) of ECA is headed by a Director and reports to the Executive Secretary. The Division is responsible for promoting a culture of accountability and transparency across all streams of work of the Commission. It comprises three sections: corporate policy and planning section; monitoring, reporting and evaluation section; systems-wide coherence and quality assurance, risk mangment and compliance section. To this end, ECA is seeking to contract a suitably qualified and experienced communication consultant with good analytical and communication skills to facilitate the preparation and production of ECA’s Annual Report, SPORD’s quarterly Bulletin and facilitate other relevant communication and advocacy materials and tasks. Duties and Responsibilities Under the direct and overall supervision of the Director of the Strategic Planning, Oversight and Results Division, the consultant will undertake the following tasks: • Perform in-depth research and conduct meetings with key SPORD team and stakeholders to gather significant materials for SPORD’s annual report and the quarterly bulletins. • Prepare the ECA Annual Report, SPORD Quarterly Bulletin and other relevant communication documents and tools. • Work in collaboration with the graphic design team to integrate visual elements such as graphics, charts, and other aids into reports to improve their readability and the overall impact on the audience. • Undertake communication outreach and advocacy on the work of SPORD. • Apply best practices in communication strategies to ensure materials are tailored to target audiences, including UN Agencies, government officials, policy makers, and development partners and the other key stakeholders. The consultant's role will encompass the writing and editing of content to ensure clarity, precision, and engagement and outreach and advocacy on the work of the division. Preparing the documents will involve gathering inputs from SPORD’s staff members, drafting initial versions, refining these drafts and bringing documents to their final published form. Additionally, the consultant will be responsible for identifying key stakeholders and customizing communication products to effectively capture their interest and participation, potentially including the development of targeted briefs, reports, or presentations. The consultant will be expected to work closely with SPORD's team and may be required to attend meetings and briefings to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the division's work. While the primary focus will be on written communication, the consultant will also be required to undertake communication outreach and advocacy assignments including making oral presentations or workshops to present findings or draft reports. Qualifications/special skillsAdvanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Communication, journalism, social sciences or any other related fields. A PhD degree will be an advantage. At least 7 years of work experience in an international organization, public service or related institution is required. Superior writing, editing, and proofreading skills, with an exceptional eye for detail is desirable. Familiarity and/or experience in working with the United Nations is an advantage. Languages• Fluency in English, very good writing and analytical skills. • Knowledge of French is an added advantage. Knowledge/Skills: • Sound understanding of Africa-related strategies and policies of major bilateral and multilateral agencies and relevant experience in working with regional organizations and partners. • Excellent interpersonal and management skills. • Proven ability and experience in efficient planning and execution of tasks; and high level of initiative. Additional InformationNot available. No FeeTHE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.