Senior Communications Officer, Nigeria

Job Posting Organization:
The organization is the largest nonprofit dedicated to combating poverty, disease, and inequity globally. Founded on the principle that all individuals, regardless of their identity or circumstances, deserve the opportunity to lead healthy and productive lives, the foundation emphasizes diversity among its employees to reflect the global populations it serves. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage without premiums, generous paid time off, paid family leave, retirement contributions, regional holidays, and opportunities for employee engagement in various communities. The foundation is committed to fostering an environment where employees can thrive both personally and professionally.

Job Overview:
The Senior Communications Officer for Nigeria will be responsible for designing and implementing integrated communications strategies that enhance the foundation's reputation and build trust among key audiences in Nigeria and the surrounding region. This role merges traditional communications responsibilities, such as reputation management and media relations, with marketing" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">digital marketing expertise. The officer will utilize data-driven insights and creative content strategies to achieve communications goals. The position requires close collaboration with the Africa Regional Communications team, the Global Communications Division, and the Nigeria Country Office leadership to ensure alignment with the foundation's values and global voice. The officer will be based in Abuja and will report to the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Deputy Director of Program Advocacy and Communications in Nigeria.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Communications Officer will engage in a variety of strategic and reputation communications tasks, including developing and executing a Nigeria communications strategy that aligns with the foundation's priorities and enhances visibility. Responsibilities include leading reputation management and crisis communications, building relationships with journalists and digital influencers, overseeing leadership communications, coordinating press engagements, and collaborating with regional teams to localize campaigns. Additionally, the officer will lead digital communications and marketing efforts, implementing a digital-first strategy that utilizes various platforms and analytics to engage audiences. This includes managing integrated digital campaigns, overseeing the foundation's digital presence, and fostering a digital-first culture within the Nigeria Country Office. The officer will also serve as a liaison with the Global Communications Division and collaborate across teams to ensure integrated communications efforts.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Marketing, Public Relations, or a related field. They should have 7 to 10 years of progressively responsible experience in communications, digital marketing, or public affairs roles, with a deep understanding of Nigerian and West African media dynamics. Proven experience in managing cross-channel digital campaigns and leveraging data for performance optimization is essential. Candidates should also have experience in reputation management, media engagement, and leadership communications, along with a track record of collaboration in complex, multicultural organizations. Strong skills in digital strategy, social media marketing, content development, and analytics are required, as well as excellent relationship management skills and existing networks within Nigeria's media and digital ecosystems.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Marketing, Public Relations, or a related field. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of communications and marketing in a nonprofit context, particularly in relation to the foundation's mission and objectives.

Experience:
Candidates should have 7 to 10 years of progressively responsible experience in communications, digital marketing, or public affairs roles. This experience should include a deep understanding of the media landscape in Nigeria and West Africa, as well as proven success in managing digital campaigns and reputation management in complex stakeholder environments. The ability to work across cultures and geographies is also important, along with high emotional intelligence and adaptability.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with exceptional communication, writing, and storytelling abilities. Proficiency in French is preferred, as it may enhance the candidate's ability to engage with a broader audience and collaborate with French-speaking partners.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Abuja, Nigeria, and may require domestic and international travel up to 25%. Candidates must be legally eligible to work in Nigeria without visa sponsorship. The application deadline is set for 25 March 202

• The hiring process will include a background check, and the organization is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible hiring experience for all candidates, offering accommodations as needed. The foundation values diversity, equity, and inclusion in its workplace and strives to ensure equal opportunity for all applicants.