Communications and Policy Officer

A local NGO in the democracy and governance sector is seeking to recruit a self-motivated and passionate communications and policy officer.

Main duties will include:

Communication

• Develop and implement a comprehensive communications strategy• Media monitoring, tweeting, contributing to press releases, updating the website, writing blogs.• Internal communication with members and affiliates, for example compilation and sending of newsletters.• Communicate the organisation’s work with key external stakeholders including government, MPs and policymakers. • Establish and maintain excellent working relationships with key stakeholders.• Take the lead on drafting letters and policy briefings etc

Policy

• Monitor changes (and prospective changes) in policy and legislation that may affect/ contribute to the work of the organisation (including key research and policy developments)• Monitor external sources of information including media, Parliament and Government, think tanks etc. for issues and developments of relevance; and provide summaries and analyses of them. • Undertake research (including both ad hoc tasks and longer-term projects) to support the work of the organisation. • Keep the policy contact lists and databases under review and up to date.

Skills and Qualifications

The ideal candidate must possess the following skills and qualifications• A degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations or related field. A Master’s Degree in the relevant field will be an added advantage.• Minimum of three (3) years’ experience in communications and policy role. • Fluency in English is required. Proficiency in Shona and Ndebele is an asset. • Ability to analyse and formulate policy positions • An excellent communicator with the ability to tell, write and edit compelling stories that bring the impact of work to life• Ability to communicate with a range of people across different mediums e.g. social media.• Proven ability to communicate with policy makers and stakeholders on related policy matters • Report writing to publication standard• Proven experience in project management with an emphasis on policy and research projects• Ability to plan and organise work to timely delivery of outputs • Evidence of ability to work on own initiative• Excellent knowledge of IT and social media

Due to the anticipated volume of applications, we regret that we can only respond to shortlisted candidates.

To apply for the role, please provide a CV and covering letter explaining how you are suitable for this role. Only applications sent with the job title in the subject line will be considered.

Applications should be sent to: [email protected]