The Communication Specialist is responsible for the management of the Country Office communications strategy that positions and showcases a coherent message on the organization’s core intent, the country’s programs and advocacy initiatives, and enhances visibility and brand recognition. The position supports both external and internal communications.

Major Responsibilities

• Implement a comprehensive in-country communication strategy that profiles the impact of ChildFund’s work, using written and visual storytelling.

• Develop, implement and maintain an in-country online communication presence using the web and social networks.

• Lead new approaches to creating and distributing multi-media content related to ChildFund in the country.

• Create and deliver content – stories, photos, videos, quotes, and other information – that help the organization build and nurture relationships with donors and the general public, globally. Proactively share stories and visual assets with the International Office and Alliance partners. Provide high-quality English translations of all story material.

• Coach local partner staff on capturing and sharing stories, photos and videos about children and their experiences of the sponsorship relationship and ChildFund’s programs.

• Knowledge Management & Learning Support: Develop and/or ensure your teams develop learning and knowledge products that meet standards and enable organization-wide learning and sharing by documenting approaches, project and program designs and lessons, case studies and other knowledge products.

• Act as brand ambassador, responsible for in-country communications, including collateral print materials, country digital channels and for managing in-country media relations, all toward building the brand.

• Proactively and frequently prepare timely updates for ChildFund International website and/or members of ChildFund Alliance.

• Generate compelling marketing collateral to support ChildFund fundraising initiatives in country.

• Serve as a member of the global internal communications team/network. Act as a champion for internal communications. Support development and execution of a global internal communications strategy and plan in partnership with senior leaders, based on assessment of audiences and needs. Curate, develop and edit content for a variety of internal communications mediums to promote “One ChildFund”, and deliver content across multiple channels and mediums, in multiple languages. Help select and roll out existing or new internal communications tools (in partnership with Knowledge Management & Learning and IT), and train senior leaders and staff in effective communications techniques and usage of tools.  (if & when relevant) Support internal response to crisis situations which affect perception and reputation

• Remain alert and responsive to any child safeguarding risks, acquire relevant knowledge and skills which will enable you to promote strong safeguarding practices, understand the child safeguarding policy and procedures, and conduct yourself in a manner consistent with the Child Safeguarding Policy.

Job Requirement

Required Education and Experience

• 5+ years of demonstrated work experience in journalism, marketing, public relations, media campaigns, and nonprofit communication or related area.

• Clear grasp of communications strategies and creativity in applying them to raise awareness of ChildFund’ s activities and achievements.

• Extensive event organization and promotion experience.

• Strong experience with website development and content management systems. Ability to express technical concepts in clear, simple language for diverse audiences, including the general public.

• Proficiency in use of social networking and new media tools.

• Analytical skills with knowledge and good understanding of global and national development issues.

• Proven extensive contact with editors and journalists from in-country media.

• Ability to work as part of a multi-cultural team and communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.

• Excellent communications skills, written and oral; English required.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs including Excel, Word and Outlook, as well as desktop and web-based publishing, photo and video editing tools.

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s degree or higher required in Public Relations/Journalism/Corporate Communications/Marketing Relations or related field.

Equivalent relevant work experience maybe acceptable in lieu of degree

Place of work:   Addis Ababa, with frequent field travel to ChildFund’s operational areas

How to Apply

Register using the following LINK