The media development organization International Media Support (IMS) is in close cooperation with Fojo Media Institute (Fojo) and other international partners implementing programs to support media reform and assist in the professionalization of journalism and media management in Ethiopia. We are working closely with Ethiopian institutions and media partners. A new office in Addis Ababa is soon established, and the Communication Officer will be part of the team initiating and implementing the programs.

Main responsibilities

The main responsibility of the Communication Officer is to inform the Ethiopian public and specific target groups in Ethiopia and abroad about the progress of media reform and media professionalism  in Ethiopia. The communication involves, but is limited to, programs and activities supported by IMS and Fojo.

Scope of Work and Main Tasks

• Shaping communication platforms and dissemination channels.
• Cover IMS and Fojo activities in Ethiopia with credible and engaging storytelling in text, data and visual forms
• Train and assist program staff and partners to develop communication strategies, and develop the culture of effective communication, documentation of project successes, challenges and lessons learned

Detailed tasks:

• Collaborate with program management to develop and implement an effective communications strategy based on the target audience.
• Write, edit, and distribute content, including publications, press releases, website content, annual reports, speeches, and other material to internal and external audiences
• Create concept of an online media knowledge center for Ethiopia in cooperation with external web designers.
• Establish and maintain effective relationships with Ethiopian journalists, and maintain a media database.
• Plan and coordinate communication of IMS and Fojo events in Ethiopia.
• Maintain records of media coverage and collate analytics and metrics.
• Establishes effective working relationship with key partner personnel, government officials, donors, media institutions and outlets, and other stakeholders

Duration and location

This is a part-time position (30h/week) for 1 year with a probation period of 3 months, and with the possibility of extension. Salary will be commensurate with experience and IMS policies. Starting date: As soon as possible. 

Qualifications and Experience:

• A post-graduate degree in a relevant field such as communications, journalism, reporting, media or social sciences fields
• 5 years of working experience in communications or journalism 
• Experience working in an NGO environment
• Updated digital knowledge and experience from working with digital media and online communication
• Good technical IT skills.
• Experience with research, validation, and organization of data and content management
• Interpersonal, skills; problem-solving and organizational skills;
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, content management systems, audio, video, and social media platforms.
• Solid understanding of the media development and/or freedom of expression fields, including knowledge of key stakeholders.
• Excellent story telling skills in writing and visual forms, including a demonstrated ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing in English.
• Ability to work constructively with colleagues at all levels in the organization as well as external partners.
• Excellent spoken and written English, and Amharic. Proficiency in other local languages an asset.
• Experience in media development and/journalism is an asset

Everyone with the required qualifications and skills is encouraged to apply, regardless of their gender or racial, ethnic, religious, and cultural background.