Communications Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries, employing thousands of staff members who are committed to the mission of eradicating hunger and improving nutrition. WFP is recognized for its efforts in providing food assistance and has been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020 for its work in combating hunger and promoting peace.

Job Overview:
The Communications Officer position at WFP involves implementing the communications plan by supporting and delivering a range of communications activities. The role requires collaboration with the PCR officer to design, execute, and implement country-specific communication activities and work plans aimed at enhancing WFP's visibility, reputation, and resource mobilization efforts. The officer will assist in conducting research and gathering information to prepare communication materials, stories, briefing notes, reports, and other information products for both internal and external audiences. The position also entails maintaining and updating media contact databases, developing content for social media platforms, and creating donor visibility materials to highlight WFP's activities and achievements. The officer will monitor media coverage, prepare reports, and provide logistical support for communication campaigns and public outreach activities. This role is crucial in ensuring effective communication strategies are in place to support WFP's mission and objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with the PCR officer to design and implement country-specific communication activities and work plans.
• Conduct research and gather information to support the preparation of communication materials, stories, and reports.
• Maintain and update media contact databases and disseminate information to journalists and media outlets.
• Develop and publish content for social media platforms in line with communication plans and branding guidelines.
• Create donor visibility materials, including success stories and multimedia content.
• Monitor media coverage and prepare summaries and analytics for communication planning.
• Organize and maintain communication-related data and outreach information.
• Prepare communication reports and visibility updates for management and stakeholders.
• Provide logistical support for communication campaigns and public outreach activities. 1
• Liaise with internal units and external stakeholders on communication-related matters. 1
• Prepare and disseminate communication guidance and templates. 1
• Participate in emergency preparedness and response activities. 1
• Perform other duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess experience in utilizing specialist communications techniques to enhance functional outputs. They should have provided direction and instruction to junior staff members within their area of expertise. The role requires strong communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to WFP's values and mission, showing integrity, collaboration, and a commitment to humanitarian principles.

Educational Background:
The minimum academic qualification required for this position is an advanced university degree in Journalism, International Relations, Public Relations, Communications, or a related field. Alternatively, candidates with a first university degree and an additional eight years of relevant work experience may also be considered. Continuous professional development through trainings and courses is highly valued.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least one year of postgraduate professional experience in communications or a related field. Experience in a humanitarian or development context is preferred. The role may require familiarity with media relations, social media management, and content creation, as well as the ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, fluency in Sinhala and/or Tamil is desirable, as it will enhance communication with local stakeholders and audiences.

Additional Notes:
The position is offered as a Service Contract (SC-8) with a contract duration of one year, which may be extended based on performance and organizational needs. The duty station for this role is Colombo, and it is open to Sri Lankan nationals only. WFP emphasizes a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The organization provides an attractive compensation package and invests in the personal and professional development of its employees through various training and mobility opportunities.