Communications Specialist – Kenya Small Business Development Centers (KSBDC) at Strathmore Business School

JOB PURPOSE:

The Communications Specialist will work with the Program Team at the main office and the six counties to design and manage all aspects of internal and external program communications. S/he will contribute to developing high-quality knowledge and learning content, including data visualizations, success stories, case studies and other reporting that informs learning activities and adaptive management decisions. The person will also support the promotion of program activities through crucial communication channels and engage critical partners and communities of practice through strategic outreach and innovative communication practices.

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Collaborate with the Communications Officer to ensure the integration of communications and knowledge management activities that complement and report on county-level program activities.
• Together with the Communications Officer, spearhead the development and execution of the program’s overall communications strategy (internal and external) and develop program branding and messaging in line with the program’s approved Branding and Marketing Plan.
• Support capacity building of local counterparts to effectively communicate with citizens and stakeholders.
• Support the preparation and presentation to USAID of reports and written communications on the progress and impact of program activities, including Monthly Updates, Quarterly Progress Reports, Quarterly Financial Reports, Annual Reports, and the Final Report
• Work closely with Program staff to design program-specific communications and outreach strategies, including identification of strategic channels and key influencers, particularly those related to the promotion of opportunities available.
• Contribute to the design and implementation of grant and subcontract activities specifically related to communication and outreach activities.
• Support the production of Information, Education, and Communication Materials like producing a documentary, brochures, presentations, animations, and newsletters.
• Support communication and branding of Program events and workshops.
• Ensure the accuracy and consistency of public information materials.
• Coordinate press and other media outreach as appropriate.
• Travel to county offices as required.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

The post holder will be required to have and to demonstrate evidence of the following qualifications, attributes, and skills:

• Excellent written and oral communication skills, and fluency in English.
• University degree in relevant field and 6+ years of experience drafting reports, documents, and outreach materials, and developing and implementing communications plans
• Experience in development communications on large, complex, multi-country USG-funded programs is highly preferred.
• Experience leading the planning and implementation of outreach and media events, including press conferences and program launches.
• Ability to professionally communicate across all levels of an organization and the public
• Skilled in communication, strategic thinking, and planning.
• Experience of driving better communication practice through lessons learned over time.
• Effective written and oral communication skills and the ability to positively discuss and negotiate with stakeholders.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and tech-savvy.
• Ability to think strategically and identify ways to improve the Program communication activities.
• Ability to present complex information in a compelling manner.
• Must be resourceful and take initiative even when given minimal direction.
• Experience in providing advising or technical assistance to small businesses in marketing, management, accounting, or financing is a plus
• Experience working with other NGOs is a plus.