Director of Communication

UN Development Programme

The 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 indicators

Communication 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 Arrangement

The 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.