Zusipe BatyiCommunications Officer (EU Project)
Salary Range: R258,000 – R330,000 Per Annum (All inclusive) linked to Rand-Euro exchange rate.
Deadline to apply: 22 May 2023
The Ahmed Kathrada Foundation is looking to employ a Communications Officer for its EU Accountability Project
The A4A Project is a project of the AKF and its partners, the Accountability Lab SA and the Public Service Accountability Monitor which is co-funded by the European Union. The project seeks to appoint a Communications Officer to implement the Communications and Visibility Plan as approved by the EU. This would include ensuring the visibility of the project and its campaigns on a daily basis. In addition to the work in the 4 local sites, the project aims to advocate accountability issues on a broader provincial and national level. The position is based in Lenasia, Johannesburg.
Roles and Responsibilities
The successful candidate will be responsible for:
• Implementing the Communications and Visibility Plan of the project as approved by the EU
• Implementing a comprehensive organizational communications plan, encompassing key areas of social media and earned media outreach, to support the organization’s broader strategic objectives.
• Design and implement short-term communications plans for A4A campaigns and initiatives as they arise.
• Collaborate with other staff, including a media liaison / social media officer and Communications Interns, who will support with social media management and implementation of communications plans.
• Coordinate with A4A partners to strategize and implement a plan to expand the reach of existing content.
• Maintain and update the A4A press contacts list, building relationships with journalists.
• Pitch reported stories about A4A issues, priorities, and initiatives to television, radio, digital, print, and other media outlets.
• Draft, ghost-write, edit, and pitch opinion and analysis pieces by A4A Team.
• Respond to media inquiries and prepare A4A Team Members for speaking engagements, interviews, and media appearances.
• Maintain and update A4A communications platforms on a prompt and regular basis.
• Update and maintain the A4A page on the AKF website.
• Run media campaigns on selected focus areas of accountability on local, provincial and national issues as determined by the project team.
Education:
Diploma or Degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field is required.
Experience
• At least three years in a communication and/or advocacy role experience within the fields of human rights.
• Experience with integrated online and physical campaign methods
• A strong knowledge of running campaigns on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instargram, Twitter, Tik-Tok etc is essential.
• Demonstrable experience of communication strategy development
• Excellent writing and editing skills
• Basic design skills to ensure products and materials look professional and are consistent in branding and style
• Experience developing and implementing trainings and workshops for diverse groups.
• Experience coordinating projects or campaigns with multiple partners.
• Experience and/or knowledge of the public interest law sector.
Knowledge and Skills:
• Understand dynamic social and political issues
• Problem solving skills, and the ability to create clear, simple solutions
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Experience in developing, drafting, and editing a range of communication products
• Demonstrated interpersonal and teamwork skills in a fast-paced work environment
• Excellent listening skills with the ability to interpret key messages and information
• Ability to prioritize tasks and independently manage competing demands
• Strong analytical skills and excellent research skills
• Knowledge of advocacy campaigning
• Very good writing skills with the ability to write clearly and concisely
• Strong presentation skills
• Excellent interpersonal and listening skill
• Strong people skills with the ability to work under pressure
• Capability to use technology tools to drive campaigns
Languages
• Fluency in spoken and written English
• Proficiency in one or more indigenous South Africa Language is advantageous
Personal attributes
• Ability to multi-task and be deadline oriented
• Ability to work independently, as well as in a team
• Ability to work under pressure
• Take initiative and be proactive
• Attention to detail
• Willingness to work beyond official working times
• Willingness to travel
Research
• Conduct and/or coordinate research into accountability and related areas.
• Undertake research as required to inform campaign activities.
• Work with community mobilisers in the Activists Media Incubator to coordinate media statements.
• Form and strengthen relationships with partners and other stakeholders.
General
• Attend and participate in monthly staff meetings, team meetings, as well as other meetings that relate to the work of A4A.
• This is a full-time, fully remote role, with a five-day workweek running from Monday- Fridays. There will often be meetings and engagements in evenings and/or weekends.
Salary Range:
Salary Range: R258,000 – R330,000 Per Annum (All inclusive) linked to Rand-Euro exchange rate.
How to Apply:
• Please send the following materials to: cvsakf@gmail.com The subject line of your email should be “[Name] – Communications Officer Application.”
• Cover letter (one page, single-spaced, no more than 500 words, PDF format) explaining how well-qualified you are for the position.
• Resume
• Academic, journalistic, or policy writing sample (3 pages maximum)
• Email and phone numbers of three references; at least two should be professional references.
Kindly note that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted
