Data Visualization Specialist (Open to Tier 0, 1 & 2 applicants)

UNDP•New York, NY

18h

About The Position

The Data Visualization Specialist will provide technical leadership, coordination, and applied expertise in communications, data visualization, and knowledge dissemination for UNDP’s Regional Bureau for Africa Strategy, Analysis and Research Team (SART). The role supports flagship reports, initiatives, and events, translating complex analysis into clear, policy-relevant communications for policymakers, senior management, partners, and public audiences. It combines hands-on production with coordination and quality assurance to maintain high standards, coherence, and strategic alignment across communication products. Under the supervision of the Chief Economist, the incumbent will lead data storytelling and communications across multidisciplinary teams, senior stakeholders, and external service providers. The position also provides end-to-end communications and visualization support for analytical reports, manages programme websites and microsites, and offers technical guidance to colleagues and service providers.

Requirements

Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Communications, Graphic Design, Data Science, or a related field; alternatively, a first-level university degree in these areas combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be considered in lieu of the advanced degree.
At least 5 years of progressively responsible experience at national and/or international level in communications, data visualization, knowledge management, or related fields with a Master’s degree; or at least 7 years with a Bachelor’s degree.
Demonstrated experience supporting analytical and research-based reports and working with multidisciplinary technical teams.
Fluency in English.
Ability to communicate clearly and concisely in writing and verbally, tailoring messages and communication methods to the audience.
Ability to manage internal and external communications through media, social media, and other appropriate channels.
Ability to analyze interrelated elements of systems and assess how changes affect other parts of a process or system.
Ability to research information and turn it into useful, context-relevant knowledge, and apply or develop concepts to address new situations.
Ability to build and maintain partnerships with stakeholders, including governments, civil society, private-sector partners, and experts.
Ability to develop compelling data narratives supported by visualizations, and to extract, analyze, and visualize data to produce meaningful insights.
Ability to communicate visually and create appealing graphic products.

Nice To Haves

Experience applying communications and data storytelling principles independently.
Strong analytical, drafting, and visual communication experience.
Ability to innovate communication approaches and guide applied conceptual work.
Strong coordination, organizational, and stakeholder-management skills.
Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple priorities, and meet tight deadlines.
Knowledge of French or another UN language.

Responsibilities

Lead the conceptualization, design, and delivery of data-driven knowledge products, including infographics, charts, interactive and static visualizations, animations, videos, presentations, and digital content.
Translate quantitative and qualitative analysis into clear, policy-relevant visual narratives while ensuring data accuracy, analytical rigor, and visual coherence.
Apply data visualization and storytelling techniques, including trend and temporal analysis, comparative frameworks, geographic mapping, and simplified dashboards.
Develop country profiles, fact sheets, data stories, and multimedia products that combine concise narratives with high-quality visuals.
Provide end-to-end communications and visualization support for flagship reports, coordinating production from research and data preparation through drafting, design, publication, and dissemination.
Coordinate with publishing, design, and data-visualization vendors; provide technical guidance, quality control, and oversight of data consistency and compliance with UN editorial and branding guidelines.
Manage and regularly update programme websites and microsites, including publication of content and updates to datasets, indicators, and ratings.
Coordinate communications and visualization work across internal teams, regional bureaux, the executive office, and external partners.
Develop strategic presentations and visual briefing materials for senior-level meetings, consultations, policy dialogues, and high-level events.
Provide technical advisory support and guidance to colleagues, consultants, and service providers, and contribute to capacity strengthening in data visualization and communications.
Perform other duties within the functional profile as necessary for the efficient functioning of the office and organization.