Head of Communications

PURPOSE

Communication or Communication/Prevention Manager 2 is the focal point for all matters related to communication at the delegation level. S/he directs the orientation, planning, monitoring and evaluation of the delegation’s communication activities and provides technical support to all staff involved in them. S/he contributes to building and implementing an approach in which communication activities are integrated into other ICRC programmes (e.g. prevention, protection, assistance, cooperation).

RELATIONSHIPS

Internally, interacts with delegation management, other programme managers/coordinators, and heads of field sub-structures; at headquarters, with the Communication Head of Sector and specialist colleagues from other units where relevant; within the region, with regional advisers supporting the delegation and, when relevant, communication/prevention counterparts in other delegations closely affected or influenced by the same context.

Externally, interacts with key members of national authorities, the media, NGOs and other civil society representatives. Contacts may be mid- to high level.

GENERAL DUTIES

• Understands and adheres to the ICRC Code of Conduct
• Understands the roles of the components of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement
• Respects and observes staff regulations and security rules at all times
• Represents the ICRC in a professional manner at all times
• Develops and maintains a pleasant and conducive working environment with colleagues and line managers
• Performs all duties with the highest level of confidentiality in the interest of the employees and the ICRC
• May be asked to perform tasks not covered in this job description and to provide support to other departments when necessary

ACCOUNTABILITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Sets the strategic orientation of the delegation’s communication in cooperation with management, field offices and other departments.
• Oversees implementation, monitoring and evaluation of programmes related to communication, which may include: operational communication; community engagement; IHL promotion and joint International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement communication; public communication; digital communication; information analysis and environment scanning.
• Contributes to the delegation’s analysis of political, security, humanitarian and other developments related to ICRC reputation/perception management and capacity to operate. Defines, in consultation with the delegation management team, the delegations overall desired identity and key messages. Periodically reviews its external position on issues related to its humanitarian mandate.
• Develops networks relevant to specific humanitarian concerns, acceptance of the ICRCs mission, strategic objectives and activities and improving its access to people in need. Supports development of the delegation’s broader network of contacts in line with anchoring and operational objectives.
• Represents the ICRC to diverse audiences in line with the delegation’s objectives.
• Acts as spokesperson for the ICRC and engages with the media.
• Supervises the development and production of internal and external communication tools/products/publications, including for digital platforms.
• Advises management on internal communication issues when required.
• Is in charge of all coaching, capacity-building and human-resources-related matters for the team under supervision.
• Supports communication-related training and coaching for staff of other departments and field sub-structures when needed.

PEOPLE MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITIES

• Understands and supervises the Performance Management & Development (PMD) activities for employees under their supervision.
• Engages in ongoing and continuous feedback and support, particularly for employees under their supervision, but also other staff members
• Organizes regular meetings within their team to ensure optimal coordination of the work and proper flow of information
• Coordinates and supports the employees under their supervision in their personal development by coaching and advising them on internal and external training and development possibilities

ADDITIONAL DUTIES

• Follows up on all work-related messages and correspondence with the relevant contacts and departments
• Collects and shares information so as to improve the ICRC’s understanding of the environment and humanitarian trends and responses
• Represents the ICRC in an appropriate way during activities, in meetings and in the field, and avoids any activity that may reflect negatively on the ICRC’s image
• Takes responsibility for their own professional learning and development

• Minimum 06 years experience in a field relevant to Communications inside or outside the ICRC
• Familiarity with editorial, online and social media communication tools
• University Degree (Masters) in a relevant field

If your profile matches the requirement and you are interested in the position, then your application should be submitted to no later than 07.06.2024 and must comprise of:

• A cover/motivation letter setting out briefly your motivation and suitability for the position.
• A complete and up-to-date CV.

The ICRC values diversity and is committed to create an inclusive working environment. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates.

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.