Communications and Public Relations Officer

Position #:	LEE032
Location:	Nairobi, Kenya
Salary Range (CAD):	Competitive
Duration:	Indeterminate
Closing Date:	01/02/13
Description
Job Overview    Under the supervision of the Regional Director in Nairobi and in contact with the Director of Communication in Ottawa (Canada), you will act as a communications and public relations expert to increase the visibility of IDRC and its research partners in the Sub-Saharan Africa Region and in Canada. Your main responsibilities will be to participate in the development and implementation of a regional communication plan in line with IDRC’s overall communication strategy; to provide advice to the Regional Director and program staff on public outreach strategies and how best to communicate research results; to organize communications and public relations activities to promote and disseminate pertinent research results; to coordinate media relations and liaise with key regional stakeholders and decision-makers; to develop and present communications and media products to share the research results; and to represent IDRC a various functions. Candidate Profile  Education                          Master’s degree or equivalent experience in communication, journalism, popularization of science and with considerable experience in a research and/or international development environment OR Master’s degree in social sciences or international development with relevant experience in communications and/or journalism Experience Position requires at least five years’ track record of relevant communications and public relations work as well as experience in a research-related setting which includes: preparing and implementing communications plans to support program and project activities; identifying and analyzing issues to provide strategic advice regarding communications and public relations approaches, activities and products; building and maintaining collaborative relationships;   developing, writing and implementing  a wide range of communications and public relations products using a variety of media including multimedia, web and social media; organizing special events and activities to disseminate or promote program and project information and results; coordinating media relations, representing an organization and acting as spokesperson; and working experience in French-speaking African regions is an asset. Language Bilingual position (English/French) requiring oral and written fluency at an advanced level in both languages Knowledge Sound understanding of principles and practices of communications, public relations, marketing and promotions Knowledge of international development and IDRC’s mandate Competencies                                                                                                                   Superior interpersonal and interactive communication skills Excellent writing and editing skills including meticulous attention to details Strong analytical, decision-making and project management skills Ability to manage projects while maintaining quality and meeting deadlines, budget and client needs Ability to partner and network to build and maintain collaborative relationships with internal and external clients Ability to work effectively in a team demonstrating initiative and creativity Ability to work under pressure and with minimum supervision Flexible and adaptable with ability to respond quickly to unanticipated demands Diplomacy, tact and collegiality Additional Information For more information regarding primary duties or responsibilities, view Job Details. As this is a local hire, rather than an international recruitment, the terms and conditions of employment that apply to our Kenyan support staff will be relevant to this appointment. How to Apply Please email your curriculum vitae and supporting cover letter highlighting how your experience, qualifications and skills match the requirements for this position to our Regional Office for Sub-Saharan Africa at: cprorossa@idrc.ca We appreciate the interest of all candidates, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.