Director of Communication

1 - Position Information* Organization: UNDP Saudi Arabia, through Stars Orbit Consultants and Management Development (SOC). * VA No. VA26/40 * Office/Unit/Project: KSA/Program/ 01004920 * Position Title: Director of Communication * Duty Station: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia * Office-based: On-site (UNDP and PSU) * National or International Consultancy: International / National * Duration: 12 Months * Number of Required Positions: 1 * Vacancy Date of Issue: 17 March 2026 * Vacancy Closure Date: 30 March 2025 * Expected Starting Date: As soon as possibleThis vacancy is announced by UNDP Saudi Arabia through Stars Orbit Consultants and Management Development (SOC). SOC is a sub-contractor for UNDP Saudi Arabia, assisting the programme in implementing their activities through HR and contract management of consultants working in their support.To review the full job description, please click on the following link:https://drive.google.com/file/d/19OsO9J1MkqNQMtfDBPw2cTR4w8IUpJWc/view?usp=sharing2 - Project Title:Establishment of and Support to Public Diplomacy Think Tank, Prince Sultan University (PSU), (Project Number: 01004920).3 - Project Description:Through the partnership between the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Prince Sultan University (PSU), this project supports the establishment and operationalisation of the Public Diplomacy Think Tank in Saudi Arabia. The initiative represents Phase II of a multi-phase cooperation, building on the successful completion of Phase I, which defined the strategic foundation and institutional design of the Think Tank.The Think Tank will strengthen Saudi Arabia’s capacity for public diplomacy by advancing research, innovation, and capacity development aligned with Vision 2030. It will serve as a centre of excellence to promote thought leadership, knowledge exchange, and cross-sector partnerships, positioning PSU as a national and regional leader in public diplomacy.UNDP provides technical and operational support to ensure the Think Tank’s establishment adheres to international standards, integrates sustainable governance systems, and strengthens PSU’s institutional capacity. PSU will lead in developing research, training, and outreach programmes to enhance Saudi Arabia’s influence, promote global dialogue, and develop local expertise in digital diplomacy and soft power strategies.The project contributes to the UNSDCF Outcome 4: fostering peaceful, just, and inclusive societies and mobilizing means required for the implementation of Agenda 2030. It aligns with UNDP Strategic Plan Output 3.1 (economic diversification through research, innovation, and digital transformation) and CPD Output 4.3 (strengthening institutional and technical capacities of civil society and academic partners).4- Scope of WorkThe Director of Communications’ scope includes, but is not limited to, the following:a. Communication Strategy and Messaging* Develop and maintain the overall communication strategy aligned with public diplomacy objectives. * Define messaging priorities, tone, and positioning across audiences. * Develop and approve key messages for different target audiences. * Ensure consistency of narrative across all outputs and platforms (Arabic and English).b. Content Oversight and Research Communication* Provide editorial oversight and final approval for: * Research-related communication outputs * Media-oriented content * Website and digital content * Ensure clarity, credibility, and policy relevance of published materials. * Work with research and programme teams to translate technical outputs into accessible, communication-ready content. * Guide the framing of publications for public, policy, and media audiences.c. Media, Digital Presence, and Public Engagement* Oversee media engagement and communication materials (press-style summaries, statements, media briefs). * Ensure availability of media-ready content aligned with institutional messaging. * Guide content direction across digital channels, including the website and other communication platforms. * Ensure alignment between digital presence and institutional communication priorities. * Oversee communication related to events, dialogues, and public engagements. * Support the design and rollout of communication campaigns when required.d. Planning, Coordination, and Governance* Prepare periodic communication plans (annual / quarterly). * Monitor overall effectiveness and coherence of communication efforts (high-level, non-technical). * Act as the central coordination point for communication across management, research teams, and relevant partners. * Ensure communication outputs adhere to institutional and governance standards.4 - Performance indicatorsCommunication Strategy* Communication strategy is clear, coherent, and effectively aligns with public diplomacy objectives. * Key messages are consistently reflected across all channels and audiences.Content Oversight* Research and publications are accurate, credible, and understandable for their intended audiences. * Technical outputs are effectively translated into communication-ready materials that engage stakeholders.Media & Digital Engagement* Media and digital content enhance visibility and reputation of the Think Tank. * Communication campaigns and events effectively reach target audiences and support institutional goals.Planning & Coordination* Communication plans guide consistent and coherent messaging across teams. * Coordination ensures smooth flow of information and compliance with governance standards.5 - Institutional ArrangementThe consultant will report directly to the Director of Operations; works closely with the Director of Research.Key interfaces (Saudi ecosystem): Government entities, academic institutions, media and digital platforms, civil society and think tanks, private sector partners, and international partners.6 - Duration of the Work* The expected duration of the work is a full-time for 12 months. * The role is anticipated to start on [30-04-26] and end on [30-04-27].7 - Duty Station* This assignment will be Office-based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. * If unforeseen travel outside the consultant’s duty station city is requested by UNDP and not required by the Terms of References (ToR), such travel shall be covered by UNDP in line with applicable rules and regulations and upon prior written agreement. In such cases, the consultant shall receive living allowances not exceeding the United Nations (UN) Daily Subsistence Allowance (DSA) rate for such other location(s).Note: A written approval from UNDP and relevant authorities will be required to facilitate the consultant's travel to any locations than stated on this TOR on official missions where necessary.8 - Required QualificationMinimum education requirements* Bachelor’s degree in communications, media, public relations, journalism, or a related field. Master’s degree is an asset.Minimum years of relevant work experience* At least 10 years of experience in strategic communications, media, or public diplomacy, preferably within public sector, international organizations, think tanks, or academic institutions.Required skills* Strong leadership in developing and implementing communication strategies. * Advanced writing and editing skills in Arabic and English for institutional and policy-oriented communication. * Experience overseeing research communication and translating technical content into accessible formats. * Proven ability to manage media relations, digital platforms, and public engagement. * Ability to coordinate across multiple stakeholders and ensure consistency in messaging. * Experience in planning communication campaigns and supervising content development.Desired skills in addition to the competencies covered in the Competencies section* Experience in public diplomacy, policy communication, or thought leadership platforms. * Familiarity with Saudi Arabia’s media landscape and institutional environment. * Experience working with think tanks, universities, or international organizations. * Knowledge of digital communication trends, including analytics and audience engagement strategiesRequired Language(s)* Proficiency in Arabic & English (required).HOW TO APPLYHow to apply1. CV must be submitted online in PDF format through SOC’s portal via the following link: https://jobs.my-soc.org/apply/20260317225009/uDzc5ySrPVlafTHbO8KG69LWA2. If the candidate is currently employed by a government institution, he/she must be able to provide an unpaid leave of absence for the duration of the consultancy.3. Only candidates who are short-listed will be contacted.4. By submitting your application, you have read the Terms of Reference for this position and agree that any false, wrong, or incomplete information might lead to your disqualification in this recruitment process.