Advocacy & Communications Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
Relief International is an international non-profit organization dedicated to partnering with communities affected by conflict, climate change, and disasters. The organization aims to save lives, build resilience, and promote long-term health and wellbeing. Established to address humanitarian needs, Relief International operates in 14 countries across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, focusing on various sectors including Health and Nutrition, WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), Education, and Livelihoods. The organization is committed to creating a representative, inclusive, and authentic workplace, encouraging applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds and lived experiences relevant to the contexts in which they work.

Job Overview:
The Advocacy & Communications Coordinator will serve as the strategic lead for advocacy and external communications within Relief International’s Sudan program. This role is crucial as it operates in a complex and politically sensitive humanitarian environment. The Coordinator will be responsible for designing, driving, and overseeing the implementation of a comprehensive Advocacy and Communication Strategy that aligns with Relief International’s humanitarian goals. This position aims to amplify the voices and needs of conflict-affected Sudanese, ensuring that the organization’s positioning is principled, evidence-based, and compliant with International Humanitarian and Human Rights Law. The role requires a proactive approach to advocacy, engaging with various stakeholders to promote the organization’s mission and objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The responsibilities of the Advocacy & Communications Coordinator include leading the development and implementation of the Advocacy and Communications Strategy for RI Sudan, producing policy briefs and key messages, and representing the organization in discussions with UN agencies, donors, and the diplomatic community. The Coordinator will work closely with program teams to identify advocacy opportunities, ensuring that advocacy efforts are aligned with program objectives and integrated into proposal designs. Additionally, the role involves mentoring colleagues in communications, developing case studies, visibility products, and campaign materials, while ensuring their quality and strategic relevance. The Coordinator will also manage media engagements, branding, and external communications in coordination with headquarters, while monitoring reputational and operational risks. Furthermore, the position requires providing strategic direction to field focal points, overseeing team performance, building capacity, and fostering a collaborative culture that aligns with Relief International’s values.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Journalism, International Development, Law, or a related field. They should have substantial progressive experience in advocacy and communications within humanitarian settings, with at least two years in an expatriate position. A proven track record of engaging in high-level advocacy and policy influence in conflict zones is essential. Excellent writing and editing skills are required, along with the ability to produce strategic communication products. A deep understanding of the Sudan humanitarian context and geopolitics, knowledge of International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights Law, and strong interpersonal, coordination, and relationship-building skills are also necessary for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields such as Political Science, Journalism, International Development, Law, or similar disciplines. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of advocacy and communications within humanitarian contexts, particularly in regions affected by conflict and crisis.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have substantial progressive experience in advocacy and communications, specifically within humanitarian settings. A minimum of two years of experience in an expatriate role is necessary, along with a proven track record of engaging in high-level advocacy and influencing policy in conflict zones. This experience is vital for effectively navigating the challenges and dynamics of the Sudanese humanitarian landscape.

Languages:
Proficiency in Arabic is considered a desirable criterion for this position, as it enhances communication and engagement with local communities and stakeholders. While Arabic is not mandatory, it is highly beneficial. Additionally, strong command of English is essential for producing strategic communication products and engaging with international partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is an on-site role based in Port Sudan, with up to 50% travel required to various locations across Sudan. It is a 12-month fixed-term international contract, with the possibility of extension depending on funding availability. Contract terms, salary, and benefits will be discussed during the HR interview stage. The role is classified as requiring advanced pre-employment checks, including criminal records self-declaration, references, and other checks that may include police and qualifications verification. Relief International is committed to safeguarding all individuals encountered through its work and expects all staff and volunteers to uphold the values and behaviors outlined in the Code of Conduct.