Public Affairs Specialist

ABOUT UNICEF 

UNICEF is the world’s leading children’s rights organization, working for children in 190 countries to save lives, defend rights, and help fulfill their potential. We are funded entirely by voluntary contributions and are committed to making a lasting difference for children.

JOB PURPOSE

We are looking for a Public Affairs Specialist to strengthen UNICEF’S political and institutional relations in Portugal.

This role is pivotal in positioning UNICEF as a trusted and credible voice for children’s rights, transforming evidence, data, and programmatic results into strategic advocacy and action that shape public policy and legislation.

Working closely with the Advocacy and Programs teams, you will translate research findings and policy recommendations into compelling narratives that engage decision-makers, advance UNICEF’s priorities, and help create a national environment where every child can thrive.

KEY RESPONSABILITIES

Political and Institutional Leadership/Responsability

· Develop and implement public affairs strategies that reinforce UNICEF’s impact among political and institutional stakeholders.

· Represent UNICEF before decision-makers, government officials, parliamentary groups, and strategic partners.

· Position UNICEF as a reference source on child-related issues and social policies, using data and evidence from programs and research

Stakeholder Engagement and Diplomacy

· Translate complex data and policy content into clear, persuasive messages tailored to political and institutional audiences.

· Identify, map, and cultivate relationships with key stakeholders, including government bodies, municipalities, academia, and civil society.

· Build and sustain trusted relationships that advance UNICEF’s policy and advocacy goals.

Political Intelligence and Insights

· Monitor and anticipate political trends, legislative priorities, and emerging agendas relevant to UNICEF’s mission.

· Identify windows of opportunity for policy change in child rights and propose targeted engagement strategies.

· Share political and institutional insights with the Advocacy team to support the adjustment of priorities and strategic messaging.

Representation and Reputation

· Represent UNICEF at public events, forums, and policy-related working groups.

· Ensure consistency of UNICEF’s messages and institutional reputation across all interactions with external stakeholders.

QUALIFICATIONS & COMPETENCIES OF A SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE

· You are a relationship-builder and strategic thinker who thrives at the intersection of policy, politics, and purpose.

· You understand how public policy is built , through credibility, timing, and partnerships, and you are motivated by using these skills to advance children’s rights.

· You bring diplomacy, curiosity, and integrity to every interaction, always focused on impact and collaboration.

· You are driven by impact and skilled at turning complex agendas into meaningful partnerships for change.

YOUR SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

· Degree in Political Science, International Relations, Law, Communication, or related fields.

· At least 5 years of experience in government relations, , or public affairs.

· Strong understanding of the Portuguese political and legislative systems, and familiarity with EU policy context.

· Proven ability to translate technical information into compelling political messaging.

· Established institutional network or the ability to build and sustain one effectively.

· Excellent verbal and written communication skills in Portuguese (native) and English.

· Strong analytical capacity, attention to detail, and organizational skills.

· Deep alignment with UNICEF’s mission, values, and ethical standards.

WHAT WE OFFER

· Hybrid work model with flexibility.

· A sustainable office environment.

· Additional vacation days and a special day off for your birthday.

· Flexible afternoons for family time.

· Fresh fruit in the office.

· Health insurance.

· A dynamic, purpose-driven culture with opportunities for professional growth.

OUR VALUES

UNICEF’s work is guided by the values of Care, Respect, Trust, Integrity, Accountability, and Sustainability. We are committed to upholding these values in all that we do.

UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination. UNICEF also adheres to strict child safeguarding principles. All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks and will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles.