Communications Officer, Rapid Response, Africa

Job Posting Organization:
The organization is the largest nonprofit dedicated to fighting poverty, disease, and inequity globally. Founded on the principle that everyone, regardless of their identity or circumstances, deserves the opportunity to lead healthy and productive lives, the foundation emphasizes diversity among its employees to reflect the global populations it serves. It 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 employees to engage in various communities. The foundation is committed to fostering an environment that supports both personal and professional growth for its employees.

Job Overview:
The Communications Officer, Rapid Response, Africa will play a crucial role within the global Strategic Communications team. This position requires a proactive approach to managing the foundation's reputation in earned media, particularly in African markets. The officer will be responsible for anticipating, mitigating, and responding to reputational risks, thereby contributing to global issue management. The role involves collaboration with various teams across the foundation, including communications colleagues in the Africa Regional Office, as well as with Gates Foundation affiliates, grantees, and partners. The officer will report to the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Deputy Director of Strategic Communications and will be integral in supporting cross-foundation risk management efforts across multiple domains such as programs, advocacy, legal, finance, operations, and leadership offices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The primary duties of the Communications Officer include identifying and developing rapid response communications plans to address potential programmatic and reputational risks in African markets, particularly in countries like Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Senegal, Ethiopia, and Rwanda. The officer will work closely with program and policy teams to anticipate communication risks associated with program priorities and key developments. They will manage rapid-response communications during emergencies or reputational crises, ensuring clear and accurate messaging is delivered under tight deadlines. Monitoring media, social, and political developments across African regions is essential to anticipate issues and inform real-time communication strategies. The officer will draft high-quality statements, Q&As, and talking points that align with regional contexts and organizational priorities. Coordination with global and regional teams and external partners is necessary to maintain consistent messaging across various platforms. Additionally, the officer will support crisis preparedness by maintaining response playbooks, conducting scenario planning, and performing post-incident analyses to enhance future rapid-response efforts.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline or equivalent professional experience. They should have 8-10 years of senior-level experience in strategic communications, executive communication, journalism, public affairs, or crisis/rapid-response roles, particularly within African contexts. A proven track record in developing and executing reputation strategies, managing crises, and advising leadership on risks and opportunities is essential. Candidates should demonstrate rapid-response experience, producing clear communications under pressure, and managing media inquiries effectively. Exceptional writing and editing skills are required, along with a deep understanding of the African political, social, and media landscapes. Strong media and digital monitoring expertise, particularly regarding misinformation and emerging narrative risks, is also necessary. Proven judgment in high-stakes environments and the ability to collaborate across cultures and time zones are critical attributes for this role.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field is required, although equivalent professional experience may be considered. The educational background should ideally include studies related to communications, public relations, journalism, or a similar discipline that equips the candidate with the necessary skills for strategic communications and crisis management.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 8-10 years of senior-level experience in relevant fields such as strategic communications, public affairs, or crisis management, particularly in African contexts. This experience should include a demonstrated ability to develop and execute reputation strategies, manage crises, and provide strategic advice to leadership on communication risks and opportunities. Rapid-response experience in high-pressure situations is crucial, as is the ability to produce clear and accurate communications quickly.

Languages:
Professional proficiency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in at least one additional relevant language, such as French, is strongly preferred. This linguistic capability is essential for effective communication across diverse African markets and for engaging with various stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Nairobi, Kenya, and requires the candidate to be legally eligible to work in the country without visa sponsorship. The role may involve travel up to 10-20% domestically and internationally. The application deadline for this position is April 19, 202

• As part of the hiring process, employment will be contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. The organization is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible hiring experience for all candidates, offering accommodations for individuals with disabilities or medical conditions as needed. The foundation values diversity, equity, and inclusion in its workplace and strives to ensure equal opportunity for all applicants and employees.