Advocacy and Communications Specialist – Baghdad

About the role

The UNICEF Iraq office is seeking an Advocacy and Communications Specialist to lead its public advocacy agenda in Baghdad. Reporting to the Representative, you will manage a small team and coordinate advocacy and communication activities that raise awareness of children’s and women’s rights across Iraq.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and implement a public advocacy strategy aligned with UNICEF’s programme outcomes and global priorities.
• Lead media relations, produce press materials, and manage relationships with national and international journalists.
• Build and maintain networks with government agencies, NGOs, donors and other stakeholders.
• Coordinate country‑level contributions to global campaigns and regional initiatives.
• Integrate disaster risk reduction and humanitarian advocacy into communication plans.
• Monitor, evaluate and report on the impact of advocacy activities.
• Supervise the Communication Officer and Communication Associate, providing coaching and performance management.
• Design and deliver capacity‑building sessions for staff and partners on advocacy techniques.

Required profile

• Advanced university degree in Communication, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing or Social Science.
• Minimum five years of progressively responsible experience in advocacy and communications, preferably in humanitarian or development contexts.
• Proven experience managing teams and delivering results.
• Demonstrated ability to design practical strategies that capture public attention.
• Fluency in English; knowledge of Arabic is an asset.

Required skills

What we offer

• Competitive remuneration package with benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• A supportive, diverse and mission‑driven work environment.