Senior Communications & External Affairs Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group (WBG) is a prominent global institution established to provide funding and knowledge to developing countries. It is a unique partnership comprising five institutions, with a mission to eradicate extreme poverty, enhance shared prosperity, and promote sustainable development. The WBG has 189 member countries and operates over 120 offices worldwide, collaborating with both public and private sector partners to invest in innovative projects and utilize data, research, and technology to address pressing global challenges. For more information, visit www.worldbank.org.

Job Overview:
The Senior Communications & External Affairs Officer plays a pivotal role within the Latin America Communications and External Affairs team, specifically focusing on the Colombia and Venezuela country programs. This position serves as a strategic advisor to country and regional management, emphasizing stakeholder engagement, communications, advocacy, and reputational risk management. The officer is integral to advancing the World Bank Group’s external affairs agenda in these regions, ensuring effective delivery across four key business lines: Stakeholder Engagement, Strategic Business Marketing, Advocacy & Campaigns, and Risk & Issue Management. The role demands strong strategic judgment, political awareness, and the ability to anticipate risks, influence stakeholders, shape narratives, and mobilize support for development priorities. The officer will work closely with various teams across the World Bank Group to ensure a coordinated approach to communications and stakeholder engagement, contributing to the successful execution of country initiatives and programs.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Stakeholder Engagement: Lead strategies to enhance the World Bank Group's influence in Colombia and Venezuela, building relationships with key stakeholders such as government officials, development partners, and civil society organizations. Conduct stakeholder intelligence efforts, advising management on political dynamics and engagement approaches. Facilitate dialogues and public forums to promote policy discussions and understanding of World Bank priorities.
• Strategic Business Marketing: Position the World Bank Group as a trusted partner by developing strategic narratives and communications products that align with operational objectives. Highlight flagship operations and success stories to generate demand for engagement.
• Advocacy & Campaigns: Lead advocacy campaigns that support development priorities, creating compelling messaging for local audiences. Oversee the development of various communications materials for senior management.
• Risk & Issue Management: Serve as a senior advisor on reputational risk, coordinating risk assessments and advising management on communications strategies for high-profile issues.
• Corporate Coordination & Innovation: Promote integrated communications across the World Bank Group, driving innovation in stakeholder engagement and mentoring junior staff to enhance capacity within the communications network.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree and at least 8 years of relevant professional experience in communications, journalism, public affairs, or a related field. A strong understanding of Colombia and Venezuela's political economy and development issues is essential, along with experience in strategic communications and stakeholder engagement. Proven ability to provide strategic advice to senior management and manage reputational risks is crucial. Excellent written and verbal communication skills in both English and Spanish are mandatory, with a demonstrated ability to translate complex issues into clear communications.

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.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 8 years of relevant professional experience, particularly in international environments, with a strong understanding of regional development issues and the World Bank Group's operations. Experience in managing communications and stakeholder engagement initiatives in complex institutional settings is essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Spanish is mandatory, with excellent writing and editing skills. Additional language skills may be considered advantageous but are not required.

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 retirement plans, medical and life insurance, paid leave, and accommodations for individuals with disabilities. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates.