The IJR is a renowned non-profit think tank based in South Africa, dedicated to advancing peacebuilding efforts across the African continent. Our work towards this end centers around three core focal areas: research and policy, peacebuilding interventions, and the promotion of dialogue between and within communities. We are seeking a seasoned Senior Communications Officer to join our Cape Town team and play a crucial role in effectively managing the communication of the impactful work of the IJR.

The Senior Communications Officer will:

• Support the implementation of a comprehensive communications strategy aligned with the IJR’s mission and goals.
• Assist in implementing IJR’s branding and strategic positioning activities, helping to develop clear messaging and a range of products to shape and manage the IJR’s reputation and perception among key audiences.
• Provide communications support to IJR’s projects in delivering communications products and services.
• Help to develop a steady pipeline of content for various platforms that demonstrates the IJR’s impact and service offering.
• Create digital posters and design infographics for the institution’s messages and assist to distribute them accordingly.
• Take pictures, shoot and edit videos for special events and interviews, and repackage them with appropriate messaging for distribution through different platforms.
• Collect podcasts and sound clips for uploading onto SoundCloud.
• Manage the Communications Team media and stakeholders lists and database.
• Coordinate the procurement of brand collateral and communications software and equipment as needed.
• Work closely with project staff to contribute to the development and dissemination of knowledge products.
• Engage closely with key media partners and journalists to popularise IJR’s impact across the continent and globally.
• Upload content on the IJR’s website, digital platforms and social media to meet institutional and project needs.
• Assist with writing, editing, reviewing, and providing design and layout support as needed.
• Assist with collating content for annual reports, newsletters, and internal communication document.
• Write articles and media advisories for the media when needed.
• Support media monitoring and development of social and digital media analytics.

To be successful in this role, you need to be able to work collaboratively within a fast-paced and adaptive environment and have the following qualifications and skills:

• Master’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, or a related field.
• Demonstrated skills in digital communication tools including Adobe InDesign and Illustrator, SoundCloud, as well as design, video and photo apps including Canva.
• Proven experience in writing, digital design, and videography.
• Excellent and proven skills in editing, desktop publishing, and layout.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing successful branding and communications strategies.
• Proven experience providing operational communications support to development-focused projects.
• Ability to package complex projects into relatable stories, reports, and other knowledge products.
• Experience in media relations and pitching for interviews.
• Strong presentation skills and the ability to communicate and distil complex messaging clearly.
• Capable of handling multiple tasks with tight deadlines.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced diverse environment across sectors, projects, and teams.
• Ability to adapt quickly to changing circumstances and deliverables.

The Senior Communications Officer will report to the Head of Communications and provide communications-related support for the organisation. If you are ready to make a meaningful contribution to our mission and have the skills to drive effective communication, send us a portfolio of some of your best written work, digital designs, videos and podcasts. We want to hear from you.

Application Process:

• Submit a letter of motivation, CV with two contactable references to Ms. Gaynor Clarke, email: vacancies@ijr.org.za;
• The deadline for applications is close of business Friday 22 March 2024;
• Shortlisted candidates will participate in an initial interview and final candidates will be asked to complete a practical assessment;
• If you have not heard from us within one month of the closing date, you can assume your application has been unsuccessful. We encourage applications from historically disadvantaged individuals.