Job Description

We are seeking a Communications Manager for a 2-year-regular position (renewable) to work within the Africa Regional Office at the International Vaccine Institute in Kigali, Rwanda. (Duty station: Kigali, Rwanda)

Job Description

This job is an integral part of the IVI Africa Regional Office (IARO) and collaborates with the central Global Affairs & Communications team. The role involves developing and implementing communications strategies and overseeing visual materials to strengthen IVI’s African presence and storytelling activities while building key relationships with external stakeholders and the media. The position is located at the IARO in Kigali, Rwanda.

Key Roles & Responsibilities

1. Develop the creation and dissemination of communications materials tailored to key African audiences, and may
support the communication with African audiences

Lead writing and editing of external communications related to IARO activities including press releases, announcements, speeches, annual reports, factsheets, newsletters, blogs, project highlights, presentations etc.
Manage IAROs input to IVIs website and social media channels including Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube; provide social media content for IARO and the IVI leadership.
Assist internal communications and communications needs of IARO, and with other IVI departments as needed.

2. Manage engagement with African media including major media outlets and secure coverage on IVI

Develop and update a global media list; build relationships with foreign correspondents, especially in the African health/vaccine sections.
Coordinate press interviews with African media; draft talking points.
Conduct interviews with key IVI stakeholders and create feature articles.
Elevate internal thought leaders by polishing and pitching opinion pieces.

3. Shape the Rwandan and African communication strategy in alignment with IVIs Global Communications
Strategy

Develop key messages and implement a yearly editorial calendar with social media campaigns and internal milestones.
Develop and oversee influencer list and Goodwill Ambassador program.
Build relationships with communications units of key stakeholders and peer organizations in Africa and beyond through participation in meetings and cooperating with African-based agencies and networks such as the global immunization network.

4. Organize advocacy events and pursue partnership opportunities

Conceptualize and execute high-level events, webinars with partners, etc.
Provide support for the IVI leadership at Africa regional events.
Provide support in the communications activities related to IVIs participation and organization of scientific conferences and workshops/
The headquarters of IVI is in Seoul, Korea. The position requires flexibility with regard to time differences between Rwanda and Korea. The candidate will be required to participate in both IARO activities, as well asmeetings with the Global Affairs & Communications team at IVI headquarters.
Provide media training to IVI spokespersons, if needed.

Job Requirements and Qualifications

1. Education Requirements

BA in communications, journalism, English, international relations, language and literature or related field, or scientific background with substantial experience in communication, writing and related fields of work

2. Related Field Work Experience

8+ years of experience with undergraduate degree or 6+ years of experience with a Master’s degree in PR and communications, and/or media relations, or scientific communication

3. Technical and Professional Skills / Knowledge

Excellent skills in English writing and editing
Excellent computer skills (MS Office)
Specialized understanding of media, marketing, public relations and/or scientific communication
Understanding of social media and digital marketing tools such as Tweetdeck, Twitter Ads, Twitter Analytics, Google Analytics
Photography skills, Photoshop other design software are a plus