Head of Communications

The Secretariat is looking for a Head of Communications who will report to the APP Executive Director and lead the Communications Team. S/he will work closely with the Senior Advisor (based in Nairobi), APP Partnerships Manager and other APP staff and consultants, and liaise with colleagues in other relevant African and global organizations.

S/he will be responsible for designing and implementing a new communications strategy that reflect innovative new social media and communication mechanisms; ensure brand and design consistency of APP’s products and oversee the APP website.

The Head of Communication will have a unique opportunity to initiate new communication mechanisms, work with dynamic and senior policymakers and advocates for Africa across the globe, and thereby contribute to ‘real time’ efforts to influence decisions that are pivotal to Africa’s future.

Core tasks and responsibilities

• Manage the Communications Team;
• Support the Executive Director to develop a communications strategy on the basis of the APP Work Plan;
• Manage the implementation of the strategy within defined budgetary parameters,
• Manage external consultants to support communications work including public relations consultants;
• Report on the implementation of the communication strategy notably the use and impact of the website;
• Provide communications advice on all APP products and activities, notably the Annual Progress Report, Policy Briefs and APP Bulletin;
• Develop APP branding guidelines and ensure branding and design consistency across APP products;
• Design and produce APP advocacy material for donors and partners;
• Oversee the overall online presence of the APP on social media websites and online networks;
• Supervise or lead the management of the APP Website this will involve engagement with the designers of the current website; enhancing its functionality in line with the communication and partnerships strategy; and, ongoing content management.
• Lead coordination for the launch/press conference of the Annual Report and other key media events;
• Perform other duties as may be required.

Competencies required

• Proven experience (at least five years) in developing and supporting the implementation of communication strategies;
• Advanced university degree in communication, design or a related field;
• Planning and project management experience;
• Experience of working with the media and the public relations industry;
• Knowledge of branding and design issues and experience of working with and managing experts and consultants in these areas;
• Knowledge of new social media and communication mechanisms a must;
• Web architecture and graphic design experience, including knowledge of web usability and web standards; an understanding of online tools in support communication strategies and tool options, including Web 2.0, CMS alternatives; experience in successfully launching websites;
  • Ability to take initiative while working within a team;
  • Attention to detail and to planning ahead;
  • Ability to drive projects from inception to completion;
  • Excellent networking ability;
  • Ability to write fluently and clearly in English and good oral communication skills;
  • Good level of French would be an asset;
  • Experience of working with international organisations and in a multicultural environment;
  • Strong understanding of development and governance issues;
  • Experience living and/or working in Africa would be an asset.

Compensation is competitive and commensurate with skills and experience. Remuneration is subject to Swiss social charges and taxable under Swiss/Geneva law.

To apply

All applicants must submit:

• a one page cover letter
• a CV
• the names and contact details of three referees

to HR@africaprogresspanel.org.

The closing date for all applications is 15 December 2011, 0900 am Central European Time.