KEMRI Wellcome Head of Communications Job in Kilifi and Nairobi, Kenya

Head of Communications

Reference Number: HOC-2-14
Category: Media, Communications and PR
Grade: 9.01 - 9.16
Location: Kilifi & Nairobi
Country: Kenya

Summary:

 

Responsibility for strategic development and management of communications for the Programme. Covering internal communications (leadership of intranet and other internal initiatives) and external relations with international, national, county and local health-related public and private stakeholders,including developing advocacy strategies with key organisations.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead and manage the communication and advocacy strategy for the Programme:

• Providing overall coordination and managing capacity building for other staff working on communication at the centre; including the project communication and media officers, community liaison managers, MOH-KEMRI liaison manager.
• Leading internal communications through the further development of the intranet and other tools; and coordinating all branding at the Programme.
• Managing content for the Programme website, intranet and all electronic/social media; ensuring that this is kept up-to-date and relevant.
• Engaging with national partner organisations and sponsors to build activities with their communication officers.
• Developing active international networks to promote public engagement in science through collaboration with science related institutions and funders, including the Wellcome Trust, UK
• Engaging local, national and international media, including newspapers, magazines, radio, TV, websites, documentaries and inputs to existing public fora for health and science. Including the development of a media engagement and management plan
• Supporting research into practice by developing materials and mechanisms (with scientists) to disseminate summaries of research and research findings.
• Developing and coordinating networking initiatives with science related groups and institutions at national and international levels.
• Any other duties as assigned from time to time.

Qualifications:

• Advanced University Degree in Communication, Journalism, Public Relations; or equivalent professional work experience in the communication area combined with university degree in a related field.
• 5-10 years of experience in managing communication.
• Knowledge of current theories and practices in communication research, planning and strategy, and the role of mass media.
• Analytical and conceptual skills to think and plan strategically. Skills and experience in communication programmes, monitoring, review and evaluation.
• Proven ability to effectively manage relationships with media representatives, government officials and community groups.
• Extensive knowledge of computer systems and applications, specifically interactive digital media.
• Demonstrated skill in programme communication, development of Information, Education and Communication material, documentation and publication (including web-based documentation)
• Proven ability to produce analytical and well-presented reports and publications.
• Excellent spoken and written English; specific skills in writing press releases and articles/stories for traditional and electronic media.
• Excellent interpersonal skills: the ability to communicate clearly and effectively at all levels, taking into account cultural difficulties.

Desirable:

• Excellent spoken and written Kiswahili
• Experience in the non-profit sector
• Scientific training or experience either through education or previous work experience would be a significant advantage.

Application Procedure:

Email your detailed application with details of your current or past gross monthly salary to recruit@manpowerservicesgroup.com before Noon 18th February 2014.

Do not send / post your application and curriculum vitae to kemri-wellcome trust research programme.