The Communication & Advocacy Expert is responsible for the production of core organizational documents for external and internal use such as country strategy, project documents, reviews and evaluation, and knowledge documents; and public relations materials covering the programme level, thematic working areas, projects, as well as different topic papers as well as meetings visibility materials. S/he also be responsible for the introduction of communication for development principles and tools in projects materials; and supports the projects, with both guidance as well as inputs, in promoting evidence-based advocacy.

We are looking for a highly motivated and dedicated individual to join our team to lead and support in promoting our program, engaging stakeholders, and fostering partnerships. This role will play a key part in shaping our program’s external image, ensuring effective communication of our mission and objectives, and expanding our network of collaborators.

Duties and Responsibilities

Production of Core Organizational Documents 

• Based on Helvetas Ethiopia Country Strategy documents for external use such as presentations, reports, etc.

• Reviews and finalizes the communications strategy, which includes Communication for Emergency programs, by working all relevant stakeholders.

• Works with all project teams in the development of short films from identifying appropriate service provider to making sure all that our brand and film content adhere to the organization’s guidelines.

• Leads on making sure all published documentation follows all of HSI and donor guidelines.

Communications

1. Communication:

• Lead and ensure implementation of the communication strategy tailored to promote the program’s mission and activities.

• Create and adapt content for various platforms and target audiences, including press releases, articles, social media posts, newsletters, and multimedia materials.

• Actively engage and contribute in Alliance2015’s Communication working group.

2. Media Relations:

• Collaborate with the Program Directors and Digital Expert in building and maintaining relationships with media outlets, journalists, and influencers interested in the program’s field.

• Digital Marketing and Social Media:

• Support digital expert  efforts to enhance the program’s online presence and engagement.

• Create content for program-specific digital media platforms, including Helvetas Ethiopia website and monitor  analytics and engagement.

• Internal capacity building

• In collaboration with MEAL team, develops and implements learning and knowledge sharing platforms

• Works with HR to develop and implement orientation kits for all new staff.

• Identify, develop, and implement Communication related internal capacity development relevant training.

Advocacy Related

• Works closely with Helvetas Switzerland the advocacy focal person.

• Supports the program and project team members in developing advocacy strategies and messages and reflect the communication standards.

• Supports the program and project team members in developing materials, studies, policy briefings, etc. for evidence-based advocacy.

• Ensures advocacy materials are conflict sensitive.

• Engages in policy advocacy dialogues and other initiatives.

• Responsible for communicating advocacy initiatives in a constructive and conflict-sensitive manner on respective internal and external channels upon agreement with the respective Programme Director and the concerned Project Managers.

• Carries out other reasonable duties as assigned to him/her by immediate supervisor.

Job Requirement

Academic Qualification

• First Degree in Communication, Foreign Language, Journalism or related social science fields. Masters degree is highly desirable.

Work Experience

• A minimum of 8 years work experience and of which 4 years NGO related work experience.

• Significant experience of writing press releases, pitching ideas to media and briefing journalists.

• Proven ability to write accessibly for different audiences and to interpret information for them.

• Past experience of developing collaborative partnerships with other organizations.

• Experience in developing strategies and providing technical support.

Competencies and Other Requirements 

• Strong communication, negotiation & representational skills.

• Ability to collaborate and cooperate; work as a team, having good interpersonal.

• Analytical and communication skills.

• Fluency in written and spoken English.

• Editing, proofreading and production skills.

• Excellent interpersonal skills including ability to advise staff and management on media issues.

Required Skills

• Social media/digital communication

• Communication

• Media relations

• Content creation

Desired Skills

• Presentation

• Public speaking

• Leadership

How to Apply

Interested and qualified candidates are encouraged to apply by sending their application and updated CV through HumanResources.ETH@helvetas.org

Female applicants are highly encouraged to apply.

Please make sure you write the position title and the duty station you are applying for in the subject line.