• Bujumbura, Burundi
• Full-time
• Contract type: National employment contract

Introduction

Our client Stichting Nederlandse SNV Ontwikkelingsorganisatie (SNV) is looking for a Communications Officer.

Company Description

SNV is a not-for-profit international development organisation that applies practical know-how to make a lasting difference in the lives of people living in poverty. SNV uses its extensive and long-term in-country presence to apply and adapt top-notch expertise in agriculture, energy and WASH to local contexts. SNV has over 1250 staff in more than 25 countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. SNV is proud to be a not-for-profit organisation that uses project financing to implement its mission. This requires SNV to work efficiently and to invest in operational excellence.

In its new Strategic Plan period (2019 – 2022), SNV will more explicitly aim for systems change during project preparation and implementation – by strengthening institutions and kick-starting markets that help many more to escape poverty beyond SNV’s projects. SNV will continue to position itself as a premium organisation and invest in making knowledge flow to and from the frontline.

For more information on SNV, visit our client’s website: www.snv.org

Job Description

Overview of project

Our client is implementing a (multi-annual) project developed around food and nutrition security to step up development support by increasing resilience of vulnerable rural populations, as well as improving incomes through market linkages and private sector agribusiness development, while targeting key groups such as women, youth and returnees. It aims to contribute to increased stability and security from improved food & nutrition security through commercial farming opportunities, resilient farming systems and employment creation.

The project takes a market-based approach to deliver impact, creating employment and economic opportunities through (i) the brokering and facilitation of inclusive value chains and inclusive finance, (ii) empowering women, youth and returnees with improved food and nutrition security, and (iii) promoting resilience in market-oriented farming systems, villages and value chains.

Overview of the Position

Under the overall guidance of the Capacity Building Expert and the Project Manager the Communication Officer is responsible for developing and implementing the Project’s communication and visibility plan and for supporting the internal and external communication strategy of the project, in order to contribute to effective branding of the project and to enhance communication and knowledge sharing.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop the project communication and visibility plan and ensure its implementation, in close collaboration with the project team.
• Coordinate the project related communication activities.
• Ensure strong messaging on the project in alignment with the organization’s strategic goals and standards.
• Produce good quality communication material for the project (photos, videos, etc.); including making content documents user friendly especially for the partners in terms of terminology used and presentation.
• Write/edit annual plans and reports, ensure attractive lay-out, using visuals, diagrams and easy accessible information.
• Develop and execute dissemination strategies tailored to the project’s communication and visibility plan and overall project goals.
• Support the organization of public relations activities, corporate branding, and higher visibility of the donor.
• Draft messages for different media and audiences (articles, interviews, blogs, press releases)
• Coordinate press and media contacts and references to the project in the press and media; co-write press releases; maintain relations with the local newspapers, TV and radio
• Manage and further strengthen social media accounts; coordinate social media and online media (including blogs).
• Prepare invitations, flyers, and promotional material in relation with campaigns for the project and relevant conferences. 

Qualifications Requirements

• Master’s or higher university degree in relevant subject areas including Mass Communication, Journalism, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in a communication role, particularly in designing and implementing communication and visibility strategies.
• Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills.
• Very good drafting and editing skills; interest in data visualisation.
• Good time management, planning and organizational skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, content management systems, and social media platforms. Solid digital skills (knowledge of html, web analytics and graphic design software are a plus).
• Excellent presentation skills and ability to convey complex issues in an accessible way.
• The ability to produce content while keeping track of tasks and logistics.
• Interest in data visualisation a plus.
• The ability to take responsibility and work well independently and in team.
• Fluency in both written and spoken French is required. Professional proficiency in English is highly desirable

Additional Information

Terms of Appointment

This is a full-time position with the successful candidate being contracted for 1-year basis with the possibility of renewal.

How to Apply

Please apply by clicking on this link https://smrtr.io/5tqrb and clicking on “I AM INTERESTED” tab on this page and submit an application letter and a CV that contains three referees. Please note that the CV should be in MsWord format and (preferably) in English and should be submitted by 10 May 2021.

NB:

Only shortlisted will be contacted.

We do not appreciate third-party mediation based on this advertisement.

SNV is an equal opportunity employer: Women candidates are encouraged to apply.