Senior External Relations Officer (Internal and Executive Communications)

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a prominent global institution established to provide financial and technical assistance to developing countries. Its mission is to reduce poverty and support development by providing loans, grants, and expertise. With 189 member countries and over 120 offices worldwide, the World Bank Group is a unique partnership of five institutions that work together to address the most pressing global challenges. The organization focuses on sustainable development, economic growth, and improving living conditions in developing nations. The World Bank Group is committed to fostering partnerships with public and private sectors to implement innovative solutions and drive impactful projects that benefit communities around the world.

Job Overview:
The Senior External Relations Officer (Internal and Executive Communications) plays a crucial role in shaping the narrative and communications strategy of the World Bank Group. This position is responsible for leading the Messaging team, which focuses on developing and implementing a coherent corporate narrative that aligns with the institution's strategic priorities. The officer will work closely with various stakeholders, including senior leadership, to ensure that communications reflect the organization's goals and effectively convey its mission to diverse audiences. The role requires a strategic mindset to identify high-impact storytelling opportunities and to manage the complexities of communications in a global context. The officer will also provide guidance on messaging and storytelling for high-profile initiatives, ensuring that the World Bank Group's communications are consistent, impactful, and aligned with institutional objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior External Relations Officer will have a wide range of responsibilities, including leading and managing the Messaging team to ensure the delivery of clear and impactful corporate messaging. The officer will shape and reinforce the World Bank Group's corporate narrative, ensuring that all communications reflect institutional priorities. Key responsibilities include identifying high-impact stories, monitoring emerging issues to inform communications strategies, and serving as a strategic advisor to communications teams. The officer will also support communications planning for leadership engagements, manage executive writing assignments, and coordinate messaging across various teams to ensure coherence. Additionally, the officer will engage in special projects that require senior-level judgment and execution, contributing to the continuous improvement of communications processes.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Senior External Relations Officer position must possess a Master's degree in communications, journalism, public affairs, international relations, political science, or a related field. Alternatively, a Bachelor's degree with additional relevant professional experience is acceptable. The position requires a minimum of 8–10 years of progressively responsible experience in external communications, public affairs, media relations, or strategic communications, preferably within a global or complex institutional environment. A strong track record in strategic communications, including narrative development and media engagement, is essential. Candidates should demonstrate experience in managing high-level communications for senior leaders and possess excellent writing and editorial skills.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree in a relevant field such as communications, journalism, public affairs, international relations, or political science. A Bachelor's degree may be considered if accompanied by significant professional experience in related areas. The emphasis is on advanced knowledge and skills that are critical for effective communication and strategic messaging in a global context.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least 8–10 years of experience in external communications, public affairs, media relations, or strategic communications. This experience should include a proven ability to manage complex workflows involving senior leaders and multiple stakeholders. Candidates should have a strong background in developing and executing communications strategies for high-profile initiatives and should be adept at navigating the challenges of a highly matrixed organization.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English, which is essential for effective communication within the World Bank Group and with external stakeholders. While not required, proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if it enhances the ability to engage with diverse audiences and stakeholders globally.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an international 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 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 full-time and involves collaboration across various teams and departments within the World Bank Group.