External Affairs Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a prominent global partnership established to provide funding and knowledge to developing countries. With a mission to end extreme poverty and promote sustainable development, the organization comprises five institutions and has 189 member countries. It operates more than 120 offices worldwide, collaborating with both public and private sector partners to address pressing global challenges through innovative projects and data-driven solutions. The World Bank Group is committed to enhancing shared prosperity and is recognized as one of the largest sources of development assistance globally.

Job Overview:
The External Affairs Officer position at the World Bank Group's Country Office in Tirana, Albania, is a pivotal role that involves leading communications for the Albania country program. The selected candidate will be responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive communications strategy that aligns with the World Bank Group's operational priorities. This role requires engaging with various stakeholders, including government entities, civil society, and international partners, to enhance the visibility of the World Bank Group's initiatives. The Officer will also be tasked with integrating stakeholder engagement, strategic business marketing, advocacy, and risk management into their communications efforts, ensuring that the World Bank Group is positioned as a key partner in Albania's development agenda.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain relationships with government counterparts, development partners, and civil society to enhance understanding of the World Bank Group's role. Map influencers and validators to communicate WBG priorities effectively. Advise on engagement strategies that promote transparency and results. Lead outreach programs to foster informed discussions on reform challenges. Manage media relations to broaden outreach opportunities.
• Strategic Business Marketing: Develop communication strategies that link public policy reforms to private capital mobilization. Highlight results and impact of WBG support through campaigns. Position the Albania program within the broader ECA narrative. Promote success stories and disseminate results through digital platforms.
• Advocacy and Campaigns: Localize messages for regional advocacy efforts. Lead country-specific campaigns and design communications plans for major launches. Draft and edit press materials and simplify complex concepts for diverse audiences.
• Risk and Issue Management: Monitor developments to identify risks and opportunities. Provide analysis and recommendations on sensitive issues. Support proactive communication strategies for high-profile projects.
• Corporate Coordination and Innovation: Collaborate with ECA communications network and IFC counterparts to present a unified narrative. Champion innovative communication approaches to enhance reach and impact.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in a relevant field such as communication, journalism, or international affairs, along with at least 5 years of relevant experience. A combination of education and experience may also be considered. Candidates should have experience in an international environment and a deep understanding of political and economic issues related to development. Knowledge of the Albanian government and public institutions is essential, as is familiarity with World Bank Group operations and current development topics. Strong political awareness and the ability to manage sensitive situations diplomatically are crucial, as well as experience working with senior executives and managing reputational risks.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree in communication, journalism, public affairs, international affairs, or a related field is required. Candidates with equivalent combinations of education and experience may also be considered. The educational background should provide a solid foundation for understanding complex development issues and effective communication strategies.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in communication, journalism, or public affairs, preferably within an international context. Candidates should have a proven track record of working with government entities and understanding the dynamics of development issues. Experience in managing stakeholder engagement and media relations is also essential, along with the ability to analyze diverse information and develop strategic communication plans.

Languages:
Proficiency in both Albanian and English is mandatory, with the ability to write and edit complex communications products clearly and persuasively. Additional languages may be considered an asset, but the primary requirement is fluency in the two specified languages to effectively engage with local and international stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 2 years. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including retirement plans, medical and life insurance, and paid leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunity for all candidates regardless of gender, race, or disability. The role is full-time and requires a proactive approach to stakeholder engagement and communication strategies.