Communication Officer (FMO) EFTA Secretariat

Brussels, Belgium

Job Reference: VA 17/2012
The Financial Mechanism Office (FMO) administers the EEA Grants and Norway Grants on behalf of Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway. The funding schemes aim at reducing economic and social disparities in the European Economic Area (EEA) and strengthening of bilateral relations with the 15 EU countries benefiting from the funding.

Key areas of support include environment and climate change, civil society, human and social development, cultural heritage and cultural exchange, research and scholarships, decent work and justice and home affairs.

The FMO is affiliated to the EFTA Secretariat in Brussels, reports to the ministries of foreign affairs of Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway. It serves as a contact point for the donor states, beneficiary states and other stakeholders. The FMO has 50 employees.

Category/Level: A4
Division: Financial Mechanism Office
Location: Brussels
Start Date: 1 November 2012
Type/Duration of Appointment: Fixed-term three years (renewable once if in the interest of the FMO)

Scope

The Communication Officer takes part in developing and implementing communication strategies and plans. S/he is responsible for the development of web and social media platforms and content, communication activities and publications, information materials and reports. S/he has a good understanding of public policy and European affairs. S/he has excellent written and oral communication skills, ability to present complex information clearly and effectively, and solid experience in working with web tools. The Communication Officer reports to the Head of Communication, Reporting and Evaluation.

Tasks

• Develop and maintain web, social media and intranet channels;
• Develop and write publications, reports, and information and publicity material;
• Coordinate work with suppliers for web and communication deliverables;
• Develop, implement and review information and communication strategies and plans,
• Coordinate information activities with donor state and beneficiary state entities;
• Provide guidance and support to external entities involved in communicating the grants;
• Provide support for media relations;
• Answer enquiries and give presentations on the Grants;
• Organise workshops and information seminars; and
• Draft speeches and speaking notes.

Qualifications

• Relevant University degree, minimum Master’s level.

Experience

• At least 5 years of relevant work experience in public administration or international organisation in media/communications.

Skills

• Good communication skills and ability to present complex information clearly and effectively to different audiences;
• Good journalistic abilities in writing articles and news bulletins;
• Good understanding of web and social media;
• Understanding of the functioning of the donor states’ public administration;
• Analytical and result-oriented approach, and a proactive and cooperative outlook;
• Strong interpersonal abilities, including a dynamic and flexible attitude, and cultural sensitivity;
• Self-reliance and autonomy, but also facility for team work;
• Ability to multitask and work to tight deadlines; and
• Comprehensive IT-skills, including experience with web management tools.

Languages

• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English;
• Knowledge of another EFTA/EU language is an asset.

Employment Terms

Grade: A4
Annual Salary: EUR 83,386

Appointments are normally made at step 1 of the grade. The Director of the FMO reserves the right to appoint a candidate at a level different from that advertised. Through its recruitment policy, the FMO wants to ensure diversity in terms of gender, age and culture.

Open to nationals of all EFTA and EU member states.

We offer a very interesting and challenging position in a dynamic and diverse environment and the opportunity to work in a team of highly qualified people. We also offer favourable tax conditions and attractive social benefits.

Interested applicants should apply online via the EFTA e-recruitment tool: http://jobs.efta.int/.

Please note that only applications received via our web tool will be considered.

Deadline for submission of application: 4 June 2012.