Job Purpose
The Communications Manager, MENA will develop and coordinate the execution of IFRC's communications strategy across the MENA Region; S/he will position the IFRC as a key humanitarian leader and actor; profile the achievements of IFRC and National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies; help build communications capacity of the communications and social media focal points at National Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies and IFRCs network.
The Communications Manager pursues the goals outlined in Strategy 2020 in the interests of vulnerable people and communities. S/he is the strategic communications advisor to and a spokesperson for the office of the Regional Director. S/he will shape and contribute to global IFRC communications through active participation in the global communications team, sustained engagement on shared priorities, creative production of compelling content and rapid news-breaking emergency communication whether related to climate related emergencies, conflicts, or reputational crisis management.
The Communications Manager oversees, coordinates and provides technical guidance to communication specialists working in the region. S/he works closely with National Societies providing technical support, strategic advice and capacity building support. S/he will contribute towards an IFRC communications working culture that is proactive, creative, and responsive and which aims to be first and best.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
Regional Communication Strategy:
- Develop, coordinate and execute a communications strategy and annual work plans for IFRC in the MENA region in line with the Agenda for Renewal and IFRC 2030 Strategy. The communications strategy supports programmatic and policy priorities and aligns with global communications priorities and initiatives, integrating effective use of a wide range of communications tactics and platforms , including media relations, corporate communications, digital media, social media and advocacy.
- Act as the strategic communications advisor to IFRC senior management in the region and lead on crisis communications in response to reputational risk issues that may adversely affect the IFRC.
Leadership and coordination:
- Provide leadership, technical coordination and strategic direction to MENA Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies and IFRC staff in the region on communication matters.
- Coordinate leadership communications in support of missions undertaken by the IFRC Regional Director, Secretary-General and IFRC President.
Networking:
- Develop and maintain a network amongst National Society communications staff in MENA to create a community of practice, and encourage the transfer of knowledge, skills, expertise and resources.Collaborate with and leverage support from Movement partners to develop innovative approaches and initiatives that build communications capacity, skills and experience in National Societies and the IFRC network.
- Coordinate rapid emergency communications response to emerging humanitarian challenges and emergencies impacting the region. This includes: HR responsibilities - identifying and managing surge support needs including deployment of external service providers; collaboration with communications counterparts in the Movement; outreach to international media; gathering, production and distribution of high-quality communications materials and content that profiles and positions the IFRC; collaboration with colleagues in resource mobilisation to support fundraising efforts.
- Build and sustain a network of key contacts from the international media, professional communications networks and other key influencers in MENA to ensure that the IFRC is recognised as a leading reference on humanitarian issues in the region.
Branding and Visibility:
- Coordinate the production and curation of compelling, creative and sharable multimedia content for IFRC communication channels and platforms and external media that profiles and positions the IFRC’s work, at key regional and international events,
- Act as IFRC’s regional media spokesperson and lead on media relations in the region, shaping the mainstream news, publish articles and current affairs agenda through proactive and timely engagement with media outlets and journalists.
- Produce the IFRC MENA Quarterly Newsletter: Story from the Field in English and Arabic in coordination with IFRC staff and MENA National Societies.
- Manage IFRC’s regional social media platforms and online engagement and foster a ‘digital communications culture’ amongst National Societies in the region. Oversee the content production and posting on IFRC.org Arabic website and all regional social media platforms: Twitter, Instagram and Tiktok.
Job Duties and Responsibilities (continued)
Priorities and initiatives:
- Shape and contribute to global IFRC communications priorities through active participation in the global communications team, content creation for global channels and sustained and coordinated engagement on shared priorities.
- Actively advise on and support the rollout of global external and internal communications initiatives and campaigns ensuring the active engagement of National Societies in MENA. Share input from a regional perspective to make these initiatives resonates with MENA National Societies.
- Lead efficient corporate communications and production processes and ensure compliance and coherence with IFRC’s brand identity.
- Liaise and collaborate with communications counterparts within the Movement to identify opportunities for strengthening Movement cooperation and collaboration.
Education
University Degree in journalism, communications, international relations or related field - Required.
Experience
- 7+ years in communications, advocacy and/or journalism including media relations, social media strategy and AV production - Required.
- 5+ years working in the international humanitarian or development sector or a related field - Required.
- 3+ years managing teams in international environments - Required.
- A track record in complex issues management and emergency communications - Required.
Knowledge, Skills and Language
Knowledge & Skills:
- Strong knowledge the region including current affairs as they relate to humanitarian challenges in the region - Required.
- Strong professional and management skills and ability to be both proactive and ready to respond rapidly to changing needs from senior management and technical line management - Required.
- Proven track record of coordinating dispersed communications teams - Preferred.
- Ability to lead and manage in diverse cultural settings - Required.
- Strong relationship management skills including ability to rapidly build and extend professional networks - Required.
- Analytical and strategic thinking - Required.
- Outstanding written, oral and representational communication skills - Required.
- Experience as a media spokesperson - Required.
- Multimedia production, AV and design skills - Required.
- Social and digital media management skills - Required.
Languages:
- Fluent spoken and written Arabic - Required.
- Strong command of English - Required.
Competencies and Values
- Values: Respect for diversity; Integrity; Professionalism; Accountability
- Core competencies: Communication; Collaboration and teamwork; Judgement and decision making; National society and customer relations; Creativity and innovation; Building trust
- Functional competencies: Strategic orientation; Building alliances; Leadership; Empowering others
- Managerial competencies: Managing staff performance; Managing staff development.
How to apply:
For those who are interested in this position, the application is ONLY accepted through the following link: