The Partnership for Maternal, Newborn & Child Health (PMNCH) is seeking a dynamic and versatile Communications, Advocacy and Regional Engagement Consultant to support its communications, advocacy and regional engagement work.
Job Summary
- Employer: PMNCH
- Job Type: Contract
- Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
- Category: Communications
- Closing Date: 2026-09-28
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the writing and editing of stories, blogs, articles, briefs, reports and other digital and print materials.
- Develop and pitch media opportunities around global health moments, PMNCH events and partner-led advocacy.
- Build and maintain relationships with journalists, editors and media outlets.
- Ensure consistency in tone, messaging and branding.
- Identify and develop compelling human-interest stories.
- Manage the communications calendar and coordinate content across X, BlueSky, TikTok, LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.
- Liaise with partners on co-produced content, including guest blogs, interviews and “Voices” pieces.
- Providing coordination support to the UAWG, including meeting planning, follow-up and engagement with member organisations.
- Leading the development of advocacy and technical resources such as briefs, talking points, position papers and evidence products.
- Strengthening the UAWG as a useful and responsive coordination platform for partners.
- Supporting alignment of UAWG advocacy priorities with PMNCH’s financing, accountability and regional campaigns.
- Oversee discrete regional work from planning through delivery and reporting.
- Plan and coordinate policy dialogues with regional stakeholders, governments and partners.
- Develop policy briefs translating evidence and PMNCH priorities into actionable regional recommendations.
- Design and deliver capacity-building workshops.
- Support regional advocacy and convening activities in coordination with PMNCH regional focal points.
Requirements
- Excellent writing, editing and proofreading skills.
- Demonstrated experience developing media relationships and securing coverage.
- Experience supporting or coordinating advocacy coalitions or working groups.
- Experience developing advocacy and technical resources.
- Experience designing and delivering capacity-building workshops and facilitating policy dialogues.
- Strong policy brief writing skills and the ability to translate technical and evidence-based content for policy audiences.
- Experience managing professional social media accounts and editorial calendars.
- Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, multi-stakeholder environment.
- Fluency in English.
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: pmnch.who.int
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications are typically required for a communications consultant role in Zimbabwe?
Most employers expect a Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field. A Master's degree or professional certifications from ZIMCA, CIPR, or similar bodies strengthen your profile. Demonstrated experience in advocacy campaigns and regional stakeholder engagement is often valued more than formal credentials alone.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities for this type of part-time consulting role?
You will likely draft press releases, manage social media content, and coordinate with regional partners across Southern Africa. Expect to attend virtual and in-person meetings with government and NGO stakeholders, plus travel occasionally for advocacy events. Reporting and documentation for donor visibility are standard requirements in Zimbabwe's development sector.
How does part-time contract work fit into Zimbabwe's local work culture and expectations?
Contract roles are increasingly common in Zimbabwe's NGO sector due to funding cycles, but they require flexibility and self-discipline. You must manage your own tax obligations and NSSA contributions, as employers rarely handle these for short-term consultants. Building strong networks matters greatly, as referrals often lead to contract renewals or permanent opportunities.
What realistic career progression paths exist from this communications consultant role?
Successful consultants often advance to full-time Communications Manager or Regional Advocacy Lead positions within international NGOs. Some transition into freelance consultancy with multiple clients, which can be lucrative but unstable. Others move into government communications roles or academic positions at Zimbabwean universities teaching development communication.
What typical benefits should I expect or negotiate for a part-time contract position in Zimbabwe?
Part-time contracts rarely include medical aid or pension contributions, so negotiate these explicitly or budget for private health insurance. Request clarity on leave entitlements, as Zimbabwe's Labour Act mandates prorated benefits that many contractors unknowingly forfeit. Travel allowances and communication reimbursements are standard negotiable items for regional engagement roles.
How should I apply and what do Zimbabwean employers in the communications sector prioritize?
Submit a tailored CV highlighting measurable advocacy outcomes and regional network connections, not just job descriptions. Employers prioritize candidates with proven experience engaging SADC institutions, government ministries, and media houses. Include writing samples and references from previous consulting work, as portfolios carry significant weight over generic applications.
