If you’re an expert in crafting compelling narratives and passionate about data-driven education reform, this is your chance to make a real impact. The UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) is hiring a Project Officer (Communication & Advocacy) at the P-3 level in Montreal. This prestigious international role offers the opportunity to lead global outreach, elevate the visibility of transformative data, and drive communication strategies aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Apply by July 7, 2025 to join the global education conversation at the highest level.
Background & Job Description
About UIS
The UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS), established in 1999, functions as the primary statistical body of UNESCO, serving 193 Member States and 12 Associated Members. The Institute provides critical data across education, science, culture, communication, and information sectors. With a clear vision outlined in its 2022–2029 Medium-Term Strategy, UIS is committed to ensuring policies and decision-making are guided by robust statistical evidence.
Its role extends beyond data collection to influence international frameworks, support education reform, and develop tools that help countries track and meet Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through strategic alliances with UNICEF, OECD, World Bank, and GEMR, the Institute actively contributes to global education discourse—particularly in areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and post-pandemic recovery in learning outcomes.
About the Position
The position of Project Officer (Communication & Advocacy) at the P-3 level is a strategic appointment within UIS. Based at UNESCO’s Montreal office, this one-year Project Appointment offers the opportunity for extension based on performance and available funding. The successful candidate will report directly to the Senior Executive Officer and play a pivotal role in shaping UIS’s public image, stakeholder engagement, and outreach campaigns.
This role will encompass the development and execution of communications strategies, brand management, content creation, social media engagement, and the design of advocacy materials. Ultimately, the Project Officer will contribute to positioning UIS as the global leader in educational and statistical data advocacy.
Apply Now: Project Officer (Communication & Advocacy) at UNESCO – Elevate Global Education Through Strategic Communication
Tasks
The Project Officer’s core responsibilities focus on high-level communication strategy and brand building. Below are the main duties associated with the role:
1. Strategy Development and Implementation
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Develop comprehensive communication and advocacy strategies that elevate the UIS’s profile globally.
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Align communication plans with institutional priorities, with a special focus on SDG 4 (Quality Education) and educational benchmarking.
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Create and enforce a corporate branding framework to unify all public-facing UIS content.
2. Outreach and Partnership Management
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Build and maintain effective relationships with UN agencies, donors, NGOs, and government entities.
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Identify and develop outreach channels tailored for different stakeholder groups including policymakers, researchers, and educators.
3. Content Creation and Supervision
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Author and edit communication materials such as press releases, articles, op-eds, and newsletters.
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Oversee the production of multilingual materials, ensuring accessibility and consistency.
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Draft speeches, presentations, and talking points for high-level stakeholders.
4. Event and Campaign Management
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Plan and execute international and regional launches of UIS reports and data products.
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Coordinate high-impact events, webinars, and public announcements to maximize reach.
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Supervise consultants and external vendors supporting these initiatives.
5. Team and Resource Management
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Provide leadership to a small team including communication staff and consultants.
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Monitor and evaluate team outputs, providing quality control and performance feedback.
6. Innovation and Analytics
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Integrate data visualization and interactive tools into storytelling efforts.
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Conduct user satisfaction surveys and stakeholder analysis to inform outreach strategies.
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Identify trends and adapt approaches to stay ahead in the evolving communication landscape.
Qualifications
Education and Certification
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A minimum of a Master’s degree in Communication, Journalism, Public Relations, or a closely related field.
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A Bachelor’s degree with an additional two years of experience may be considered in lieu of a Master’s degree.
Professional Experience
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At least five years of relevant work experience in strategic communications, advocacy, and media relations—preferably in an international context.
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Proven experience in brand building and storytelling, particularly for global or development-focused audiences.
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Solid track record in producing engaging and effective content across multiple platforms, including social media, digital campaigns, and visual storytelling.
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Experience managing publications in multiple languages, coordinating web content, and executing high-profile launches.
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Strong background in statistical storytelling and the production of interactive data products.
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Practical experience with graphic design, data visualization, and social media campaign management.
Additional Information
Skills and Core Competencies
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Excellent oral and written communication skills in English and French.
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High level of diplomacy, cultural sensitivity, and strategic thinking.
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Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
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Familiarity with communication platforms, including WordPress, Adobe Creative Suite, and data viz tools like Tableau or Flourish.
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Advanced understanding of stakeholder engagement within intergovernmental organizations.
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Demonstrated ability to lead teams and manage complex, cross-functional projects.
Languages
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Fluency in both English and French is required.
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Knowledge of another UN official language (Arabic, Chinese, Russian, Spanish) is considered an asset.
Desirable Experience
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Experience developing content around educational statistics or broader UNESCO mandates.
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Previous work in development cooperation, humanitarian communication, or AI/data science for policy.
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Professional background involving international organizations, development agencies, or multilateral data initiatives.
Benefits and Entitlements
UNESCO offers a highly competitive salary and benefits package for this international professional role. The estimated starting annual salary is approximately USD $95,839, excluding additional allowances and benefits which may include:
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30 days of annual leave
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Family and dependency allowances
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Comprehensive medical coverage
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Pension contributions
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Global mobility benefits (when applicable)
For a full breakdown, consult the UNESCO Staff Benefits Guide.
Application Process
Interested candidates must apply online through the official UNESCO careers portal before the deadline on July 7, 2025 (midnight Paris time). It is essential to complete all application fields accurately, as modifications after submission will not be possible.
The recruitment process may include:
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Written assessments
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Competency-based interviews
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Reference checks for final-stage candidates
Please note that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted. UNESCO may use virtual tools such as video conferencing and online testing as part of its assessment process.
Equal Opportunity Statement
UNESCO is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to achieving gender parity, cultural diversity, and geographical representation in its staff. Women, persons with disabilities, Indigenous peoples, and candidates from under-represented Member States are especially encouraged to apply.
UNESCO enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy for harassment and requires the highest standards of integrity and professionalism from all staff.
Important: UNESCO does not charge any application fees at any stage of the recruitment process.
Final Thoughts
This opportunity to serve as Project Officer (Communication & Advocacy) at UNESCO Institute for Statistics is ideal for professionals passionate about education, data, and social change. If you’re a communicator who understands the power of data to influence global policy, this position offers a unique and fulfilling career path.
By joining UIS, you’ll contribute to one of the world’s most ambitious education missions—helping nations achieve inclusive, equitable, and quality learning for all.
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