Strategic Communications and Stakeholder Engagement Consultant

INTERNATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATION UNION

ITU is the leading United Nations agency for information and communication technologies, with the mission to connect the world. To achieve this, ITU manages the radio-frequency spectrum and satellite orbits at the international level, works to improve communication infrastructure in the developing world, and establishes global standards that foster seamless interconnection of a vast range of communication systems.

ITU applies a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of harassment. ITU is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages all candidates, irrespective of gender, nationality, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons with disabilities, to apply to become a part of the organization. Achieving gender balance is a high priority for ITU.

Strategic Communications and Stakeholder Engagement Consultant

Vacancy notice no: 2361
Sector: SG
Department: SPM
Country of contract: Switzerland
Duty station: Geneva

Position number: [[positionNumber]]
Grade: [[PositionGrade]]
Type of contract: Consultant
Duration of contract: 1 July to 10 September 2026
Recruitment open to: External
Application deadline (Midnight Geneva Time): 24 June 2026

ORGANIZATIONAL UNIT

The General Secretariat directs administrative, human and financial resources and activities of the Union, including the implementation of the provisions of the administrative regulations on operational questions, the dissemination of information on telecommunication/ICT matters for operational and other purposes, and the provision of legal advice to the whole of the Union. The General Secretariat coordinates the implementation of the Strategic Plan, monitors the telecommunication/ICT environment and recommends as needed action relating to the Union’s future policies and strategy. The General Secretariat ensures inter-sectoral coordination and cooperation to advance a whole of ITU approach (One-ITU) in headquarters and the field. The General Secretariat provides logistical and information technology support to the Union’s activities including conferences and global forums; the coordination of the work of the Union with the United Nations system, and other international organizations; and the engagement of the Member States, Sector Members, and Academia. The General Secretariat manages corporate governance, and strategic communications and relations with the media, different stakeholder groups as well as the general public.

Within the General Secretariat, the Strategic Planning and Membership Department (SPM) advises the Secretary-General on strategic challenges and their implications for the Union in the fast evolving telecommunications/ICT environment; develops forward-looking strategic proposals to the ITU management team with a view to ensuring that the organization meets the objectives assigned by the membership; plans and coordinates the corporative and strategic activities with a view to ensuring their accordance with membership objectives; organizes and provides secretariat services to the Plenipotentiary Conference, Council, and other meetings in the general secretariat in order to achieve a high level of involvement from Member States and Sector Members, develops and maintains sound relations with Member States, Sector Members and other entities, the UN and other international organizations. The Department is also responsible for providing expert advice on communication and promotion strategies and for developing and implementing the Union's corporate communication plan in cooperation with the three Sectors with a view to promoting ITU leadership in the field of telecommunications and ICT.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION Rapid advances in technology are raising complex policy questions for every country and sector.
The World Telecommunication/ICT Policy Forum (WTPF-26) provides a unique global space to exchange perspectives, explore emerging issues, and build consensus on the future of telecommunication and ICT policy. WTPF is a platform where diverse stakeholders can engage early in the policy process and contribute to shaping international approaches.
The objective of this consultancy is to develop and implement a communication strategy to strengthen ITU’s position and visibility across diverse audiences and relevant stakeholder networks related to WTPF 26 and associated events.

TERMS OF REFERENCE

Under the guidance of the Head of the Corporate Communication Division (CCD), within the Strategic Planning and Membership Department (SPM), the consultant will:

• Develop and implement a communication strategy to increase delegate registrations for WTPF 26 through targeted outreach across ITU editorial, web, audiovisual and social media platforms, as well as relevant stakeholder networks.
• Produce high-quality, audience-focused editorial and multimedia content (including newsletters, blogs, media materials and digital content) to enhance ITU visibility and messaging related to WTPF 26 and associated events.
• Strengthen ITU’s strategic positioning by promoting awareness of WTPF 26 in the lead-up to the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference and other related events.
• Translate key forum objectives, discussions and outcomes into clear, engaging and evidence-based communication products tailored to diverse audiences.
• Provide real-time editorial support during the event, including messaging updates, content drafting and communication coordination.
• Draft talking points, briefing notes and communication materials for senior ITU officials as required.

CONCRETE DELIVERABLES

• Pre-event phase (July–August 2026):
  • Creation of a minimum of two blog articles on WTPF 26 themes.
  • Drafts of two to three social media posts per week across ITU platforms.
  • Draft text for two media products.
  • Creation of up to six video scripts (short and long formats).
  • Preparation of executive talking points and briefing notes.
  • Development and distribution of dedicated newsletter for ITU members and stakeholders.
• During the event (2–4 September 2026):
  • Creation of one blog/article summarizing key developments.
  • Real-time editorial and messaging support.
  • Draft talking points and briefing notes for senior officials.
• Post-event (by 10 September 2026):
  • One post-event article/blog highlighting outcomes.
  • Finalization of all communication products.
• Cross-cutting deliverables:
  • Web copy, op-eds and additional communication materials as required.
  • Submission of all outputs according to the agreed editorial calendar aligned with WTPF 26 milestones.

COMPETENCIES

• Strategic communications and content development.
• Advanced editorial writing and storytelling for policy and institutional audiences.
• Digital communications and social media management.
• Multimedia content development, including scripting.
• Strong research, analytical, and fact‑checking skills.
• Ability to deliver high-quality outputs under tight deadlines.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED

Education:

Advanced university degree in journalism, communications, international relations, political economy or a related field OR education from a reputed college of advanced education, with a diploma of equivalent standard to that of an advanced university degree in one of the fields above.

Experience:

At least seven (7) years of relevant experience in journalism, strategic communications or policy-related writing.
Proven experience in writing and editing articles, scripts and press materials and in producing communication outputs for diverse audiences is required.
Experience with international organizations or the UN system is desirable. Prior ITU experience would be an asset.

Languages:

Knowledge of English at advanced Level. Knowledge of another official language of the Union (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, Spanish) would be an advantage.

REMUNERATION INFORMATION

Between USD 230 and USD 420 per working day to be defined according to the work experience of the consultant.

INFORMATION ON RECRUITMENT PROCESS

Please note that all candidates must complete an on-line application and provide complete and accurate information. To apply, please visit the ITU Careers website. The evaluation of candidates is based on the criteria in the vacancy notice, and may include tests and/or assessments, as well as a competency-based interview. ITU uses communication technologies such as video or teleconference, e-mail correspondence, etc. for the assessment and evaluation of candidates. Please note that only selected candidates will be further contacted and candidates in the final selection step will be subject to reference checks based on the information provided. Messages originating from a non ITU e-mail account - @itu.int - should be disregarded. ITU does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.