Volunteer Communications and Advocacy Lead

Job Posting Organization:
VSO (Voluntary Service Overseas) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting volunteering as a powerful and practical means to combat poverty and inequality. Established with the mission to create lasting change through volunteering, VSO believes in empowering individuals in some of the world's most impoverished and fragile regions. The organization operates on the principle that people in developing countries possess the desire, power, courage, and determination to shape their own futures. VSO's approach, known as Volunteering for Development (VfD), prioritizes the most marginalized individuals, fostering active citizenship that drives community-led change and contributes to sustainable development goals long after projects conclude. VSO has a global presence, working in various countries to facilitate volunteer efforts that lead to meaningful social impact.

Job Overview:
The role of Volunteer Communications and Advocacy Lead is crucial for facilitating strategic information delivery and maximizing communication opportunities that align with the project's objectives and key deliverables. The volunteer will be responsible for leading the planning, development, and deployment of strategic communications and advocacy strategies, as well as creating materials for both internal and external audiences. This includes producing high-quality communication materials across various media and social media platforms to effectively showcase the project's work and impact. The volunteer will also research and write compelling short stories that highlight the project's effects on different target groups, ensuring appropriate dissemination. Additionally, the role involves coordinating with both local and international media to communicate the project's activities while adhering to VSO's Communication Policy and brand guidelines throughout all communications and project implementations.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the planning and development of strategic communications and advocacy strategies for the project.
• Create and produce quality communication materials for various media and social media platforms to showcase project activities and impact.
• Research and write short stories that capture the project's impact on target groups, ensuring appropriate dissemination.
• Coordinate with local and international media to relay project work and ensure compliance with VSO's Communication Policy and brand guidelines.
• Facilitate shared learning and maximize communication opportunities that contribute to the project's objectives.
• Engage with stakeholders to promote the project's goals and achievements.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of communication strategies and materials, making adjustments as necessary.
• Collaborate with team members and partners to ensure cohesive messaging and branding across all platforms.

Required Qualifications:

• Strong understanding of communication strategies and advocacy principles.
• Proven experience in producing communication materials for diverse audiences.
• Excellent writing and storytelling skills, with the ability to convey complex information in an engaging manner.
• Familiarity with social media platforms and their effective use in communication.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Knowledge of VSO's mission and values, particularly in relation to volunteering and development.

Educational Background:
A degree in communications, public relations, journalism, or a related field is preferred. Additional training or certifications in communication strategies or advocacy may be advantageous.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 2-3 years of experience in communications, public relations, or a related field. Experience working in a non-profit or development context is highly desirable, particularly in roles that involve advocacy and stakeholder engagement.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication for this role. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Uganda would be an asset and is considered a good to have skill, as it can enhance communication with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time volunteer position with an allowance provided to cover reasonable living expenses in Uganda. Accommodation will be basic, reflecting the organization's work with some of the poorest communities. The application closing date is set for February 6, 2026, with a potential start date of February 16, 202

• VSO promotes equal opportunities and values a diverse workforce, and reserves the right to close the job early if a sufficient number of applications are received. VSO does not charge any fees during the application or recruitment process.