Media Officer , The Commonwealth

Location: Victoria, Seychelles
Closing date: 10 November 2015
Contract duration: 17 days

Fee: £300 per day

The Political Division (POL) is the lead division in the Secretariat’s high-profile programme for the promotion of democracy and good governance in the Commonwealth.  The division works closely with the Secretary-General, providing him with advice and support on all political issues, and particularly in his Good Offices role.  Its work ranges from monitoring and analysis of political developments and the preparation of briefings, to the organisation of election observation and the provision of technical assistance.  The work is often of great sensitivity and follows demanding timetables.

The Electoral Support Section (ESS) is responsible for the organisation of Commonwealth election observation missions and the implementation of observers’ recommendations, as well as all activities to enhance the quality of election management in member countries through the Commonwealth Electoral Network, as well as targeted institutional support and technical assistance.

Role Summary

• Ensure pre-deployment press releases are sent out and the Commonwealth Secretariat (ComSec) web site includes information on the observer team.
• Manage the organisation of all press conferences, including being responsible for managing the introductions and questions and answer sessions.
• Help to manage the Chair’s interactions with media, including establishing a suitable interview programme as appropriate
• Provide advice to observers on dealing with the media, in line with Commonwealth methodology 
• Provide advice on media situation to Chair as required.
• Monitor media coverage of the mission
• Be responsible for photo coverage of the team, and liaise with colleagues in London to ensure the mission is reported and highlighted on ComSec web-portal.
• Work with staff team leader to develop “Q&As” for the Chair for each interview and press conference.
• Provide feedback on draft statement and help in drafting media section of final report as required.

Main Duties include:

• Pre-Deployment Media Activities
• Communications and Visibility during Deployment
• Organisation of Press Conferences
• Seychelles Commonwealth Observer Group (COG) Report

Deadline for applications is 17:00 GMT on 10 November 2015.

Apply online Person specification