Senior External Relations Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a global partnership of five institutions dedicated to ending extreme poverty, increasing shared prosperity, and promoting sustainable development. Established in 1944, it has grown to include 189 member countries and operates in more than 120 offices worldwide. The organization focuses on providing funding and knowledge to developing countries, working with both public and private sector partners to invest in innovative projects that address urgent global challenges. The World Bank Group aims to build a world free of poverty and to create a livable planet for future generations.

Job Overview:
The Senior External Relations Officer position is a pivotal role within the East Asia and Pacific (EAP) Regional Stakeholder Engagement team at the World Bank Group. This position is designed for a strategic advisor who will guide regional management on stakeholder engagement, communications, advocacy, and reputational risk management. The officer will play a crucial role in advancing the World Bank Group's regional stakeholder engagement agenda, ensuring that the institution's priorities are effectively communicated and supported across various stakeholders. The role requires a blend of strategic advisory capabilities and hands-on execution, with responsibilities that span stakeholder engagement, strategic business marketing, advocacy, and risk management. The officer will work closely with various teams within the World Bank Group to ensure a coordinated approach to external affairs, contributing to the overall mission of the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior External Relations Officer will be responsible for leading stakeholder engagement strategies that align with World Bank Group priorities and support country outcomes. This includes building and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders such as government officials, development partners, and civil society organizations. The officer will also lead stakeholder intelligence efforts, advising management on political economy considerations and engagement approaches. In terms of strategic business marketing, the officer will articulate the value of integrated public-private solutions and develop narratives that support regional priorities. Advocacy efforts will involve leading communications campaigns, developing messaging that translates complex issues into accessible communications, and overseeing the creation of various communications products. Additionally, the officer will serve as a senior advisor on reputational risk, coordinating risk assessments and advising on communications strategies related to sensitive issues. The role also involves promoting collaboration across the World Bank Group and driving innovation in communications strategies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree along with at least 8 years of relevant professional experience in communications, journalism, public affairs, or a related field. A strong understanding of global development issues and political economy is essential, as is experience in designing and implementing strategic communications and stakeholder engagement initiatives. The ability to provide strategic advice to senior management and to navigate politically sensitive situations is crucial. Candidates should also have experience engaging with a diverse range of stakeholders and managing reputational risks effectively. Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English are mandatory, with proficiency in additional languages being highly desirable.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree in communications, journalism, public affairs, international affairs, political science, or a related field is required. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may also be considered. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in understanding complex development issues and the ability to communicate effectively across various platforms.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 8 years of relevant professional experience, ideally in an international environment. This experience should include a strong understanding of global development issues and the ability to design and implement strategic communications initiatives. Proven experience in stakeholder engagement and advocacy within complex institutional settings is also necessary.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in one or more additional languages relevant to the East Asia and Pacific region is highly desirable and may be required for specific assignments, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders effectively.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment role with a term duration of 4 years. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. The role is based in Singapore and is expected to contribute to the World Bank Group's mission of creating a world free of poverty.