Communications Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, established to save lives in emergencies and to use food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impact of climate change. WFP operates globally, with a mission centered around the values of Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion. The organization is committed to diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging qualified candidates from various backgrounds to apply. WFP has received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020 and continues to invest in the personal and professional development of its employees through various training and mobility opportunities. The organization aims to provide effective humanitarian assistance to millions of people worldwide, working with partners to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Zero Hunger.

Job Overview:
The Communications Officer position is based at the Country Office and reports directly to the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director. This role is crucial in implementing the communications strategy, which involves a variety of activities such as social media management, content creation, media relations, and branding. The officer will contribute to the visibility and reputation of WFP, ensuring alignment with the Country Strategic Plan (2024-29). The position requires a proactive approach to developing and strengthening partnerships that support WFP's strategic objectives, utilizing data and insights to enhance the impact of WFP’s work. The officer will also be responsible for gathering socio-political insights to influence policy agendas and advocating for the SDGs and Zero Hunger on both national and global platforms.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Communications Officer will lead the implementation of a work plan focused on identifying and developing quality partnerships to support WFP's strategic objectives. Responsibilities include contributing to a partnerships portfolio, conducting data analysis, and outreach activities to maximize resources and leverage support for WFP’s initiatives. The officer will gather and share partner intelligence, solicit inputs from various entities, and conduct analyses to draft quality briefs for outreach opportunities. Additionally, the officer will support the development of partnerships and joint events with member states and civil society, contribute to strategic agreements, and facilitate corporate dialogue with partners. The role also involves implementing country-specific communication work plans to enhance WFP's visibility and support fundraising activities, ensuring a coherent approach to communications within the organization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Journalism, International Relations, Public Relations, Communications, or a related field. Alternatively, a first university degree with additional years of relevant work experience and/or training may be acceptable. The position requires a minimum of five years of postgraduate professional experience, with additional years in communications-related fields being desirable. Candidates should have a working knowledge of government and corporate strategies, experience in developing multi-stakeholder partnerships, and a proven track record in resource mobilization processes and strategies. Familiarity with technology and digital tools for data collection and analysis is essential, as well as experience in creating external communications and briefing materials.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in relevant fields such as Journalism, International Relations, Public Relations, or Communications. A first university degree may be acceptable if accompanied by additional years of related work experience and training. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of communications within a humanitarian context and for effectively engaging with various stakeholders.

Experience:
The role requires a minimum of five years of postgraduate professional experience in communications or related fields. Candidates with additional relevant professional experience will be preferred. Experience in partnership roles, resource mobilization, and developing multi-stakeholder partnerships is essential. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in using technology and digital tools for data analysis and insights, as well as experience in creating communication materials that effectively convey WFP's mission and objectives.

Languages:
Fluency in English (level C) is mandatory, along with proficiency in Sesotho. These language skills are essential for effective communication within the organization and with external partners, ensuring that the officer can engage with a diverse range of stakeholders and contribute to WFP's mission effectively.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and based in Maseru, Lesotho. The role involves working within a multicultural environment and may require occasional travel. WFP is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. The organization does not charge any fees for applications or recruitment processes, and all applications must be submitted through the online recruiting system. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stages of the recruitment process.