Communications Officer at The Science for Africa Foundation

Strategy Development and Implementation

• Develop and execute a communication plan and annual work plans that align with the overall goals of the initiative.
• Identify key messages, target audiences, and the most effective channels for dissemination.
• Regularly evaluate and adjust strategies based on performance metrics, feedback, and changing circumstances to ensure the continued effectiveness and relevance of communication efforts.
• Ensure all programmatic content and events are in line with organisational branding guidelines.

Showcasing Impact and Content Development

• Package and promote evidence generated by the initiative and consortia across internal and external channels, including funding partners.
• Ensure a consistent flow of content that provides insights into the outcomes and impact of the initiative and its respective consortia.
• Play a critical role in shaping how the SFA Foundation tells its story and that of the initiative's impact journey.
• Support the development of and develop case studies, thought leadership pieces and blogs from programmatic staff, grantees, and fellows for publication on the website and elsewhere.

Coordinating a Communication Network

• Facilitate collaboration and information sharing within a network of communication professionals across the consortia.
• Ensure consistent and coherent messaging across all channels and stakeholders.

Supporting Events

• Organise and manage communication aspects of events, workshops, and conferences related to the initiative.
• Provide communication support to ensure the success of events and their alignment with broader strategic goals.
• Develop and maintain an annual events calendar for the programmes, ensuring the communications team is kept up to date on upcoming events and can plan accordingly.

Advocacy and Funder Engagement

• Support the implementation of advocacy strategies to raise the profile of the initiative among key stakeholders, including policymakers, funders, and the broader scientific community.
• Support the programme team’s engagement with funders to communicate the impact and success of the initiative, fostering strong relationships and securing ongoing support.
• Support the programmes team in preparing reports by providing editorial oversight and contributing communications content for the funder’s report.

Advocacy for Science Communication and Knowledge Contribution

• Champion the importance of science communication within the consortia and among funders.
• Provide support to ensure that science communication is adequately resourced by both funders and scientists, emphasising its critical role in amplifying the impact of scientific research.
• Develop and promote strategies to integrate science communication into the core activities of scientific projects, ensuring it becomes a standard practice within research initiatives.
• Actively contribute to the advancement of the science communication field by sharing insights, best practices, and innovative approaches. Engage in thought leadership activities such as writing articles, presenting at conferences, and collaborating with other science communication professionals to enhance the visibility and impact of African science globally.

Reporting and Budgeting

• Develop and manage communication budgets and work plans, ensuring efficient use of resources.
• Manage relationships with vendors and contractors, which is crucial for the successful execution of communication activities.
• Prepare regular reports on communication activities, outcomes, and impact for internal and external stakeholders.

Any other duties assigned by the Head of Corporate and Science Communication.

PERSON SPECIFICATIONS

Minimum Academic Qualifications

• A minimum of bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations, or a related field. A degree in science communication, journalism, or a relevant discipline is highly desirable from a recognised institution.

Experience

• A minimum of 3 -5 years of professional experience in communications, preferably within the science, research, or non-profit sectors.

Knowledge, Skills, and Attributes 

• Proven ability to develop and execute communication strategies that align with project or organisational goals and effectively promote scientific initiatives.
• Excellent writing and storytelling skills, with the ability to produce high-quality content for various platforms, including web, social media, and print.
• Proficiency in advocacy, with the ability to engage and influence stakeholders, including funders, policymakers, and the scientific community.
• Experience in managing media relations, including building relationships with journalists and securing media coverage for scientific initiatives.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and budgets simultaneously.
• Proficient in using digital tools and platforms for communication, including social media management, website content management systems, and multimedia production.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
• Computer proficiency in Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Internet search skills and ability to learn new applications quickly.
• Proficiency in Photoshop, Illustrator, or InDesign preferred.
• Proficiency in English is required; knowledge of French or other African Union languages is an advantage

The subject of the email should include the position you are applying for, e.g. Communications Officer. Send your application by 14 October 2024.