Our Mission The International Crisis Group is an independent organisation working to prevent wars and shape policies that will build a more peaceful world. Crisis Group sounds the alarm to prevent deadly conflict. We build support for the good governance and inclusive politics that enable societies to flourish.

Summary

Based in Nairobi, Kenya, the Senior Communications Officer coordinates and supports International Crisis Group’s communication outreach in Sub-Saharan Africa, with the aim of increasing coverage of Crisis Group’s analysis and policy recommendations on conflict-related issues. This includes, media, social media, events and the development of multimedia materials. Working with a highly professional team of conflict research analysts, the Communications Officer will be expected to use innovative approaches to promote and disseminate Crisis Group’s work.

Responsibilities include:

• Develop and implement an Africa Program communications strategy, including targeted campaigns, in close coordination with the program director, Africa and liaising with Crisis Group’s communications team;
• In collaboration with the communications team in Brussels, lead in designing and implementing communication plans for the launch of Crisis Group reports and other publications, with a strong focus on English and French language audiences in Africa;
• Lead on the communications response to breaking events in the region;
• Build and cultivate a strong network of local and international journalists based in Africa; create and maintain a database of media contacts and manage media inquiries;
• Write op-eds, press statements and other external media materials;
• Produce or help with the production of audio-visual content in collaboration with the communications team in Brussels – e.g. videos, podcasts, photographs and photo essays;
• Collaborate with the communications team in Brussels to create and implement multi-channel social media campaigns; help develop the capacity of program staff to share social media content;
• Organise local media events, including around launches of Crisis Group publications, plan and coordinate press briefings and online/in-person webinars.

Requirements include:

• University degree in Communications, Journalism, International Relations, Politics, Economics, or a similar subject;
• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in the development and implementation of communications and media plans;
• Demonstrated experience of building relationships and effectively working with broadcast and print media;
• Demonstrated experience in the production and placement of audio-visual materials for a variety of media and social media channels;
• Excellent verbal and written fluency in English. Knowledge of French will be an added advantage;
• Knowledge of African conflict issues and contemporary political affairs is desirable;
• Experience of living or working in Africa is a plus;
• Excellent interpersonal relations and available for regular travel.