Job Description
JOB TITLE: Media Consultant (National)
ORGANIZATION: United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF)
LOCATION: Nairobi, Kenya (Remote + Travel)
DURATION: 12 months
COMPENSATION: KES 593,341
ABOUT THE ROLE
UNICEF is seeking an experienced Media Consultant to strengthen relationships with Kenya's leading journalists and media editors across national and international outlets. You will play a crucial role in securing media coverage for UNICEF's child-focused initiatives while advancing our key advocacy priorities in Kenya. This position offers the opportunity to shape public discourse around children's rights and welfare while ensuring visibility for UNICEF's programs, donor recognition, and advocacy campaigns.
Your work will include developing and executing strategic media engagement plans leading up to Kenya's 2027 national elections and communicating programme results and achievements throughout 2026 and 2027.
WHAT YOU'LL DO
You will develop comprehensive media communication strategies that amplify UNICEF's message and reach. Your responsibilities include crafting compelling press releases, articles, and stories for both traditional and digital media platforms. You'll leverage strong media networks to secure coverage of children's issues and UNICEF initiatives, while conducting research and analysis to evaluate communication effectiveness. Working collaboratively with internal teams, you'll support the broader UNICEF Kenya Country Programme and demonstrate deep understanding of our work across diverse contexts.
WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR
Education:
Master's degree in Journalism, Mass Media, Communications, Development Studies, or a related field.
Experience:
Minimum 8 years of professional experience in communications, print media, broadcast media, and online platforms. You should have a proven track record covering children's issues and working with child rights organizations.
Language Skills:
Fluent in both English and Kiswahili, with demonstrated proficiency in written and oral communication.
Core Competencies:
Proven expertise developing media strategies and writing for diverse audiences. Strong research and analytical abilities. Established media contacts and knowledge of current communication theories and media practices. Ability to work effectively in multicultural teams with understanding of UNICEF's programmes and values. Excellent interpersonal skills to build harmonious working relationships internally and externally.
ABOUT UNICEF
UNICEF operates in over 190 countries and territories, working to save children's lives, protect their rights, and enable them to reach their full potential from early childhood through adolescence. We are committed to building careers and providing professional development opportunities in a diverse, passionate workplace that values inclusion, integrity, trust, accountability, and sustainability.
UNICEF is an equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting from all backgrounds. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, nationality, religion, ethnicity, disability status, or any other characteristic. We provide reasonable accommodations throughout the recruitment process and encourage applications from people with disabilities and neurodivergent individuals.
UNICEF maintains zero tolerance for sexual exploitation, abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority, and discrimination. All selected candidates will undergo comprehensive background and reference checks, including verification of academic credentials and employment history. UNICEF does not hire individuals married to children under 18 years old.
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
Submit the following documents through UNICEF's online Talent Management System (TMS):
• Updated TMS profile and curriculum vitae
• Cover letter
• Financial proposal (using the provided template only)
IMPORTANT NOTES
UNICEF does not charge processing fees at any stage of recruitment or hiring. We will never request applicants' bank account information. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted to advance in the selection process.