Press Officer (Temporary) at Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF)

The Press Officer assists the Media Manager with defining the media strategy for MSF Eastern Africa and implements press relations and activities in order to increase MSF's presence in Kenyan and East African media, working to establish MSF as a referent on international humanitarian crises and topics.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

Media Management

• Establishes and fosters strong relationships with journalists, editors and producers within print, radio, TV and online media in Kenya and East Africa in order to expand media outreach. Updates the media contacts list on a rolling basis.
• Proactively pitches stories and content that help to increase the visibility of MSF in Kenya and East Africa. Proposes, organizes and facilitates interviews, articles, press conferences and briefings with journalists.
• Distributes press releases and other information and materials to the media in coordination and conjunction with MSF’s international communications network and adapts them, when necessary, to the specificities of the Kenyan and East African contexts.
• Identifies, develops and implements ideas and opportunities for feature articles and interviews in external media that promote awareness of MSF, its international field work and advocacy efforts.
• Coordinates and manages press requests, connecting media with MSF spokespeople, experts and field representatives when necessary. Acts as first point of contact for institutional media enquiries from Kenyan media, in close collaboration with communications colleagues in the country.
• Monitors MSF mentions in the press, as well as other stories of interest to the organisation, producing regular reports of media narratives and trends. Analyzes trends and priority issues in the media agenda, identifying communication opportunities, risks, and advising on strategies.
• Takes part in an on-call system to respond to media requests out of hours.

Collaborations

• Supports other departments, such as the East Africa Association in developing and implementing communication and dissemination strategies to achieve their specific objectives, providing the necessary validated operational information and ensuring the quality and consistency of the outputs.
• When requested, gives support to Kenya and East Africa operational missions through proactive dissemination and pitching of their communications packages and materials.
• Works closely with other members of the communications department to ensure an integrated and coherent approach to the NBO’s public communication and positioning.
• Maintains regular contact with MSF communications colleagues at a local, regional and international level, in order to share information and best practice, ensure coordination and identify opportunities. Is available to act as Emergency Press Officer, travel to the field in case of major field emergencies, during a crisis, to support journalist visits or to produce content.

Administration and training

• Uploads content on the MSF EA website and digital platforms as needed.
• Provides media training and coaching on public speaking to MSF spokespeople, including staff and field workers.
• Assists with quarterly and annual reporting as needed.
• Upholds MSF principles and ethical guidelines at all times.

REQUIREMENTS

• Degree in journalism, communications or relevant field related to MSF´s subject area.
• Experience in journalism or press relations.
• Excellent writing, editing and communications skills in English, with another regional language an advantage.
• Knowledge of the Kenyan and East African media.
• Previous work experience with MSF or a similar medical or humanitarian organisation is highly desirable.
• Commitment to MSF’s humanitarian principles and ethical approach.
• Experience of working in a dynamic, fast paced, multicultural environment with a focus on results.
• Ability to plan and organise, as well as to be flexible to emerging events and to seize opportunities.
• Good team working and networking skills.