Communications Specialist

Giga; Panama City Beach (FL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

UNOPS, based in Panama City, Panama, seeks a Communications Specialist to lead the design and implementation of internal and external communication strategies for the Latin America and the Caribbean region. The role focuses on enhancing visibility, positioning and impact of organizational initiatives, coordinating with HQ and country teams.

Reporting to the Head of Partnerships and Communications, the incumbent will drive digital engagement, content creation and outreach, while ensuring

Qualifications

• Previous experience in similar roles in Latin America is required.
• Experience leading teams is required.
• Experience applying emerging technologies, including AI, to improve communication workflows, content development and audience engagement is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement and monitor communication strategies and work plans aligned with organizational priorities.
• Support reputational positioning by preparing briefs, talking points and communication materials for senior leadership.
• Align messaging with corporate communication standards and cross-organizational guidance.
• Identify target audiences and stakeholders, tailoring outreach strategies accordingly.
• Develop and manage communication materials, campaigns, publications and events to strengthen visibility.
• Manage digital presence, including websites, social media platforms, and content calendars.

Skills

Team leadership

Strategic communications

Digital engagement

Job description

General Information

Position Title

Communications Specialist

Job Category

Strategy & Corporate Services

Duty Station(s)

Panama City

Seniority Level

Mid Level

ICS Level

ICS 10

Contract Type

ICA - IICA - Regular

Contract Level

IICA 2

Posting Start Date

15-Oct-2026

Posting End Date

29-Oct-2026

Duration

Indefinido - Sujeto a disponibilidad presupuestaria, buen desempeño y/o duración de los proyectos.

Job Highlight

Lead strategic communications to amplify organizational impact, shape public perception, and foster key partnerships.

About the Region

In Latin America and the Caribbean, UNOPS operates across 23 countries, delivering high-impact solutions that drive sustainable development. UNOPS focuses on building and improving resilient infrastructure—including roads, bridges, public facilities, sanitation systems, and housing—to enhance quality of life and foster inclusive growth. UNOPS also supports public health by procuring essential medicines and medical equipment, ensuring broader access to healthcare services. By strengthening institutional capacities, UNOPS promotes transparent, efficient, and equitable public management. As a trusted partner to governments and development stakeholders, UNOPS aligns its interventions with national priorities, helping countries advance the Sustainable Development Goals through practical, results-driven support.

About the Group

Based in Panama City, Panama, the UNOPS Office of the Regional Director (ORD) for Latin America and the Caribbean provides strategic leadership and coordination across the region, enabling effective delivery of UNOPS’ mandate. Through portfolio oversight, integrated risk management, and the mobilization of expertise and resources, the ORD ensures regional coherence and operational excellence. The office supports country teams in aligning activities with organizational goals, strengthening the impact and efficiency of development efforts. It also leads regional positioning and representation in high-level forums, advancing visibility and engagement with key stakeholders. In close collaboration with other regional offices and headquarters, the ODR fosters cross-regional learning, promotes innovation, and drives strategic initiatives that contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Specific Context

The Communications Specialist reports to the Head of Partnerships and Communications and leads the strategic communications and public positioning agenda of the Regional Office. Through functional leadership and technical guidance of communications focal points across LCR, this role ensures the effective and disciplined regional implementation of global communication strategies, corporate branding guidelines, and reputation management, translating organizational priorities into consistent digital engagement, impactful regional campaigns, and proactive media relations, in close coordination with HQ Communications and country-level teams.

• Previous experience in similar roles in Latin America is required.
• Experience leading teams is required.
• Experience applying emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, to improve communication workflows, content development and audience engagement is highly desirable.

Only candidates with advanced proficiency in both Spanish and English will be shortlisted.

Role Purpose

The Communications Specialist leads the design and implementation of internal and external communication strategies to enhance the visibility, positioning and impact of organizational (i.e. UNOPS/Partner/project/portfolio) initiatives. The incumbent is responsible for managing communication plans, digital engagement, content creation, knowledge management, and event coordination, ensuring consistent and compelling messaging across platforms. The role also supports partnership development and external outreach, helping to foster strong relationships with key stakeholders to advance organizational objectives. Working closely with project leadership, team members and partners, the Communications Specialist ensures communications are strategic, integrated and aligned with organizational goals.

Functions / Key Results Expected

Strategic Communications and Positioning

• Develop, implement and monitor communication strategies and work plans aligned with organizational priorities.
• Support reputational positioning by preparing briefs, talking points and communication materials for senior leadership.
• Align messaging with corporate communication standards and cross-organizational guidance.
• Identify target audiences and stakeholders, tailoring outreach strategies accordingly.

External Communications and Media Engagement

• Develop and manage communication materials, campaigns, publications and events to strengthen visibility.
• Manage digital presence, including websites, social media platforms, and content calendars.