Assistant Director, Communications at Vihiga County Government

Duties and Responsibilities

The Assistant Director, Communications is a senior leadership role responsible for shaping and executing the county's communications strategy. This position plays a crucial part in managing both proactive and reactive communications while representing the County's vision to internal and external stakeholders. The successful candidate will be integral in enhancing public engagement, promoting transparency, and fortifying the county's reputation.

Duties and responsibilities

Strategic communication leadership:

• Develop and refine comprehensive communication strategies that align with the County's overall development and policy goals
• Advise senior leadership on media trends, public sentiments and best practices to reinforce the county's branding and public image

Policy formulation and implementation:

• Collaborate with department heads to draft, implement, and update communication policies and standard operating procedures (SOPs) that standardize messaging across departments and ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements

Crisis and issue management:

• Design and implement proactive crisis communication plans
• Act as a key spokesperson during emergency situations or negative press, ensuring that accurate information is distributed swiftly and that public trust is maintained

Media and public relations:

• Forge and nurture relationships with local and national media
• Develop press kits, organize press conferences, and manage high-level media briefings
• Build networks with influencers and stakeholders to amplify the county's messages

Digital and social media oversight:

• Oversee the creation and dissemination of content through digital channels including the county's website, social media platforms, and email newsletters
• Innovate content strategies to engage a diverse citizen base and promote interactive public dialogue

Team leadership and development:

• Mentor and supervise a diverse team of communications professionals, setting clear performance objectives and providing ongoing professional development
• Foster a collaborative work culture that emphasizes creativity, accountability, and continuous learning

Interdepartmental coordination:

• Serve as the communication liaison between the County Government and other departments, ensuring that all public messaging is consistent, factual, and supportive of integrated county initiatives
• Participate in cross-department committees to drive policy consistency and stakeholder engagement

Requirements for Appointment

For appointment to this grade, an officer must have:

• Served in the grade of Principal Public Communications Officer or in a comparable and relevant position in the Public Service for a minimum period three (3) years
• A Bachelor's degree in any of the following disciplines: Mass Communication, Public Relations, Communications Studies, Journalism, International Relations, Social Sciences or any other approved equivalent qualifications from a recognized institution
• A Master's degree in any of the following disciplines: Communication Studies, Mass Communication, Journalism, Public Relations, Information Science, Social Sciences or any other approved equivalent qualifications from a recognized institution (will be an added advantage)
• Advanced computer application skills
• Good oral and written communication skills in both English and Kiswahili
• A certificate in a management course lasting not less than four (4) weeks from a recognized institution
• A person of high integrity, motivated and a team player
• In-depth understanding of digital communication tools, social media management, multimedia production, and public engagement strategies
• Strong leadership, crisis management, strategic planning, and excellent oral and written communication skills are essential
• Membership in recognized communication or public relations body (e.g., Public Relations Society of Kenya)
• Demonstrated professional competence as reflected in work performance and results