Programme Associate (Public Information & Executive Office Support) (Islamabad, Pakistan) contract

Type of contract : Service Contract

Level :  SC6

Hiring Unit : Sector For Administration and Management (ADM)

Duty Station : Islamabad

Work location : On site

Duration of contract : 7 months

Hiring open to : External candidates

Application deadline (Midnight UTC−5 Time) : 30/04/2026

UNESCO Core Values: Commitment to the Organization, Integrity, Respect for Diversity, Professionalism

Under the overall authority and direct supervisor of the UNESCO Representative in Pakistan, the Programme Associate (Public Information & Executive Office Support) provides technical and operational support in the areas of digital communication, public information, and executive office coordination.

Within this framework, the incumbent supports the strengthening of the Office’s visibility and public image by assisting in the preparation, dissemination, and monitoring of communication outputs in line with UNESCO’s corporate communication standards and donor visibility requirements. The position also contributes to the smooth functioning of the Director’s Office by facilitating workflow management, correspondence tracking, documentation control, and coordination processes.

The incumbent works in close collaboration with programme and administrative colleagues, as well as external partners, to ensure timely information flow and appropriate follow-up on actions and commitments. The role requires a high degree of discretion, organizational skills, and sound judgment in handling sensitive matters, in accordance with UNESCO’s rules, regulations, policies, and procedures applicable to Service Contract personnel.

A. Communication and Visibility Support:

1. Manage and update UNESCO digital platforms, including the website and social media channels, ensuring full compliance with UNESCO branding standards and donor visibility requirements.
2. Support the development, drafting, editing, and dissemination of communication products in English, including web content, social media posts, newsletters, and multimedia materials (graphics, videos, and digital storytelling outputs).
3. Coordinate with programme teams to systematically collect, curate, and package content, including success stories, visuals, and project updates for internal and external dissemination.
4. Liaise with external service providers (e.g., designers, videographers, photographers, media partners) to ensure timely delivery of high-quality communication products aligned with UNESCO standards.

B. Executive Office and Coordination Support

1. Provide strategic administrative and coordination support to the Director’s Office, including calendar management, correspondence handling, and ensuring timely follow-up on priority and sensitive matters.
2. Support the planning and organization of high-level meetings, workshops, missions, and official visits, including preparation of briefing notes, talking points, and background documentation.
3. Maintain records and documentation systems, including mission plans, leave records, meeting minutes, and official archives, ensuring accessibility and compliance with internal procedures.

9. Track and coordinate administrative tasks, ensuring smooth director’s office workflows.

C. General Support

1. Undertake additional tasks and responsibilities as assigned by the Country Representative, Head of Office, in line with evolving office priorities.

1. High-quality and timely digital communication outputs aligned with UNESCO standards.
2. Enhanced visibility of programme achievements and strategic messaging.
3. Efficient and well-coordinated management of the Director’s Office workflow.
4. Accurate, timely, and professionally prepared correspondence and briefing materials.
5. Effective organization of meetings, missions, and high-level engagements.

The Service Contract assignment is for 7.5 months, tentatively from 15 May to 31 December 2026.

• Communication (C)
• Accountability (C)
• Innovation (C)
• Knowlegde sharing and continuous improvement (C)
• Planning and organizing (C)
• Results focus (C)
• Teamwork (C)

   

  For detailed information, please consult the UNESCO Competency Framework.

EDUCATION

Bachelor’s degree in communication, journalism, public relations, digital media, business administration, or related field.

WORK EXPERIENCE

Minimum 3 years of progressively responsible experience in communication, digital media, administration, or executive/management support, preferably within the UN system or an international organization.

SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

• Strong drafting, editorial, and content production skills in English.
• Proficiency in digital communication tools, content management systems, and analytics.
• Excellent organizational, coordination, and time-management abilities.

• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and professionalism. Proficiency in digital communication tools, content management systems, and analytics.
• Drafting, editorial, and content production skills in English.
• Ability to maintain editorial calendars, track digital engagement, and coordinate content collection.

LANGUAGES; 

• Fluency in English and Urdu (spoken and written) is required.
• Proficiency in local languages is desirable and will be considered an asset.

Please note that all candidates must complete an on-line application and provide complete and accurate information, by the above deadline.

To apply, please visit the UNESCO Careers website. No modifications can be made to the application once submitted. 

The process may include pre-recorded video interviews and/or written assessments, interviews with a Panel, as well as reference checks. In addition, candidates may be requested to provide additional information which may be pertinent to the position’s qualifications.  

Please note that all candidates, whether selected or not, will be informed of the outcome of their application in due course. 

Short-listed candidates may also be added to Talent Pools; subject to their consent (i.e. Data Privacy Statement).

• UNESCO recalls that paramount consideration in the appointment of personnel shall be the necessity of securing the highest standards of efficiency, technical competence and integrity.
• UNESCO applies a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of harassment.
• lndividuals from minority groups and indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply.
• All applications will be treated with the highest level of confidentiality.
• The statutory retirement age at UNESCO is 65 years.
• UNESCO does not charge a fee at any stage of the hiring process.