Communications and 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 is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, working with public and private sector partners to invest in groundbreaking projects and utilize data, research, and technology to address urgent global challenges. The World Bank Group's mission is to help clients solve their greatest development challenges, and it aims to enhance its role as a global thought leader in development through effective communications and stakeholder engagement.

Job Overview:
The Communications and External Relations Officer is a pivotal role within the Eastern and Southern Africa Communications and External Relations team, based in the Botswana Country Office. This position is responsible for designing and delivering stakeholder engagement, communications, advocacy, and reputational risk management activities that align with the World Bank Group's priorities in Botswana and Lesotho. The officer will contribute to the delivery of four key business lines: Stakeholder Engagement, Strategic Business Marketing, Advocacy & Campaigns, and Risk & Issue Management. The role demands sound judgment, political awareness, and strong communication skills, as well as the ability to build relationships and identify opportunities and risks. The officer will work closely with country and regional management, operational teams, and colleagues across various World Bank Group institutions to ensure a coordinated approach to stakeholder engagement and communications.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain trusted relationships with government counterparts, development partners, private sector, media, academia, youth, and civil society to deepen understanding of the World Bank Group’s role and value. Spearhead strategic partnerships that drive impact for the organization. Map and maintain an active network of influencers and validators to communicate WBG priorities and results. Advise the Country Manager and operational teams on effective stakeholder engagement approaches. Support proactive two-way communications by gathering insights from the ground and integrating them into operational planning and narrative development. Lead outreach programs and dialogues that promote informed discussions on reform challenges and opportunities. Manage media relations and broaden outreach opportunities with local media.
• Strategic Business Marketing: Showcase the WBG’s integrated offer by linking public policy reforms to private capital mobilization and knowledge services. Develop and implement communication strategies that highlight results and demonstrate the impact of WBG support. Position the CMU country program within a broader regional narrative of resilience and growth. Identify and promote success stories and thought leadership products that illustrate the transformative impact of WBG support. Disseminate results stories and visuals through digital platforms to reinforce credibility.
• Advocacy and Campaigns: Contribute to regional and global advocacy efforts by localizing messages and providing examples from the CMU. Lead or support country-specific campaigns that mobilize networks around reforms or flagship programs. Design and deliver communications plans for major project launches, ensuring consistent messaging across channels. Draft and edit communications materials, including press releases and social media content, while simplifying complex concepts into compelling narratives.
• Risk and Issue Management: Monitor political, social, and media developments to identify potential risks and opportunities for WBG engagement. Provide timely analysis and recommendations on sensitive issues and reputational risks. Support the development of proactive communication strategies for high-profile projects. Coordinate with regional and corporate colleagues to ensure a unified response to reputational issues. Serve as a trusted advisor on risks and opportunities.
• Corporate Coordination and Innovation: Act as an integral member of the regional communications network, contributing to priorities and storytelling initiatives. Collaborate closely with IFC and MIGA counterparts to present a unified narrative. Champion innovative communication approaches, including digital storytelling and influencer engagement, to enhance reach and impact. Engage actively in professional development opportunities within the WBG-wide Communication Network.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a relevant mix of education and experience, including a Master’s degree with at least 5 years of experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience in communication, journalism, public affairs, international affairs, or related fields. Experience in an international environment and knowledge of international trends and political/economic issues related to development are essential. Familiarity with the CMU government and public institutions, as well as experience working with private sector and civil society organizations, is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate political awareness and the ability to diplomatically handle sensitive situations, cultivate effective relationships, and manage reputational risks. Strong writing and editing skills in English and Setswana are required, along with the ability to present complex information clearly and persuasively.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in communication, journalism, public affairs, international affairs, or a related field is required. Candidates with equivalent combinations of education and experience may also be considered. A strong academic background in relevant disciplines is essential to effectively engage with the diverse stakeholders involved in the World Bank Group's operations.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in communication, public relations, or stakeholder engagement, preferably within an international context. Experience working with senior executives and managing reputational risks is crucial. The ability to analyze diverse information quickly and strategically is also important, as is experience in developing and implementing communication strategies that align with organizational goals.

Languages:
Proficiency in English and Setswana is mandatory, with the ability to write and edit complex communications products clearly and persuasively. Additional language skills may be considered an asset, but English and Setswana are essential for effective communication within the role.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment opportunity 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 opportunity for all employees regardless of gender, identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. The role requires a strong sense of urgency, thoughtful risk-taking, and a commitment to empowerment and accountability.