Advocacy and Communications Specialist – Fixed Term, Baghdad

About the role

UNICEF Iraq is seeking an experienced Advocacy and Communications Specialist to lead its advocacy agenda and manage the communications team in Baghdad. Reporting to the Representative, you will shape public advocacy strategies that raise awareness and support for children’s and women’s rights across Iraq.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the Advocacy and Communications section, supervising a Communication Officer and a Communication Associate.
• Develop, implement and monitor public advocacy strategies aligned with programme outcomes.
• Manage media relations, networking and partnerships to amplify UNICEF’s messages.
• Coordinate national and global advocacy campaigns, including disaster risk reduction and humanitarian response.
• Oversee monitoring and evaluation of advocacy activities and produce impact reports.
• Provide capacity‑building and mentorship to the communications team.

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.
• Proven experience managing teams and delivering strategic communication plans.
• Demonstrated track record of creating innovative advocacy approaches.

Required skills

• Supervision and team leadership.
• Media relations.
• International development context.
• Strategic thinking.

What we offer

• Opportunity to influence child‑rights advocacy at a global organization.
• Professional development and capacity‑building programmes.
• Attractive compensation and benefits package.
• Diverse and inclusive workplace culture.