Director of Media, Marketing and Communications

The Middle East Research Institute (MERI) is a newly established, independent, not-for-profit think tank organisation, focused on policy issues relating to the people, the land and the system of governance in the Middle East in general, and Kurdistan and Iraq in particular. It is based in Erbil, Kurdistan Region of Iraq. This Region is known as ‘The Other Iraq’ for its stability, security and economic prosperity. Kurdistan is a secular country and welcomes international visitors. For more info on Kurdistan Region, contact MERI or seek independent expert advice.

MERI’s mission is to contribute to the process of nation building and democratisation in the Middle East via engagement, research, analysis and policy debates. Its key objective is to promote and develop human rights, democracy, good governance, the rule of law and social and economic prosperity. MERI aspires to become a global leader in strategic research.

MERI is seeking to appoint experienced professionals to the two available positions of

Director of Media and Communications [Code: J1005]

Coordinator of Media, Marketing and Communications [Code: J1029]

(Coordinator is expected to have less experience than Director, but their roles are similar)

RESPONSIBILITIES

The Director of Media and Communication will be responsible to the President of MERI, and shall:

• lead and direct MERI’s communication, developing strategies, policies and action plans in support of the MERI’s corporate objectives.
• Advise the various Directorates on matters relating to media, public relations, communication and stakeholder engagement.
• Prepare, plan and release press releases, adverts, public relations, media briefs and newsletters before publications and monitor feedback and impact
• Establish a strong and wide network with media and other research institutions.
• Develop, manage and keep up-to-date MERI’s website and other social networking pages (e.g. facebook, twitter etc)
• Establish, organise, and maintain an effective media and communication archive 
• Lead and manage the development and production of promotional and marketing materials; 
• Carry out any other duties related to media and communication as instructed by the President.

PERSON SPECIFICATIONS

The Director of Media and Communications will have the following skills and competencies: 

• A University degree in a relevant field, preferably in Public Relations or Media Studies 
• Experience of developing and implementing a communication strategy and plans.
• Demonstrable experience in staff administration
• Excellent written and presentational skills in English language. 
• Excellent understanding of international media, and demonstrable experience in media and communication, public relations, marketing or journalism.
• Excellent IT skills, including website updating and social media programmes; 
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to communicate clearly and effectively with staff, external organisations and journalists.
• Excellent organisational skills, planning, time management and prioritisation; and ability to work under pressure to strict deadlines.
• A demonstrable track record in using media coverage and other publications to deliver organisational aims and objectives.
• Use of social media and how it benefits an organisation in reaching its target audience.
• Good team-working skills while able to work independently. 

More information available on www.meri-k.org

Applicants should submit the Institute’s online application form and submit a CV and a covering letter to jobs@meri-k.org.

Closing date (Friday, 28 February, 2014).  
Interviews: In London, Washington or Erbil.
Contracts are for 2 years, renewable.
Salary: $24,000 - $72,000 (tax free)
Post holders will be based in Erbil, Kurdistan Region of Iraq.