Media Officer (Temporary)

Job Posting Organization:
Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is an independent international organization that provides medical care to those in need, particularly in areas affected by conflict, disease outbreaks, disasters, and social exclusion. Established to deliver humanitarian assistance based solely on need, MSF operates in over 70 countries worldwide. The organization is committed to medical ethics and principles of independence, impartiality, and neutrality, and it actively advocates for the rights and experiences of its patients and staff. MSF USA is one of 24 sections that support the global movement, focusing on staff recruitment, fundraising, advocacy, and communications. The organization values diverse backgrounds and experiences, encouraging candidates to join in its mission to provide humanitarian aid.

Job Overview:
The Media Officer will report to the Media Relations Director and is responsible for implementing communication strategies that enhance the visibility of MSF’s medical humanitarian activities in the US media and social media landscape. This role involves proactive and reactive media engagement, collaborating with various teams within the organization to support media strategies and objectives. The Media Officer will focus on creating visibility and engagement opportunities for MSF thought leaders and high-profile supporters, leading initiatives that involve celebrity and influencer partnerships to broaden the organization’s outreach. This includes developing digital campaigns, managing influencer marketing partnerships, and organizing speaking engagements and events to promote MSF’s mission and work.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Media Officer's responsibilities include developing and distributing external communications products to raise awareness of humanitarian needs and advocate for patients and communities. The role involves identifying significant medical humanitarian issues and executing integrated communications plans to enhance public awareness and audience engagement. The Media Officer will also contribute to brand strategy and positioning, produce content for various channels, and promote diversity, equity, and inclusion principles across all communications. Specific duties include developing tactical media relations plans, executing media outreach for events, writing and distributing press releases and campaign materials, engaging with social creators, managing partner relations, and supporting media monitoring and analysis. The role requires collaboration with major gift officers and external vendors to enhance the organization’s talent engagement programs and ensure effective communication strategies are in place.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 3-5 years of media or public relations experience, preferably within a nonprofit organization or creative agency. A bachelor’s degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience is required. The ideal candidate should have professional knowledge of the media landscape, solid news judgment, and familiarity with relationship management with journalists and content creators. A demonstrated track record of generating earned media coverage, proficiency in media database and monitoring programs, and excellent research, writing, and editing skills are essential. The ability to effectively present information to the media and external audiences is also required.

Educational Background:
A bachelor’s degree is required for this position, ideally in communications, public relations, journalism, or a related field. Candidates with equivalent combinations of education and experience may also be considered. A strong educational background in media studies or communications will be advantageous.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 3-5 years of relevant experience in media relations or public relations, ideally within a nonprofit context. Candidates should have experience working collaboratively across multiple teams and departments, demonstrating the ability to manage complex projects and relationships effectively. A proven ability to generate media coverage and engage with diverse audiences is crucial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages is considered a plus, as it may enhance communication with diverse audiences and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This is a temporary position with a salary range of $78,399.00 to $117,599.00, depending on experience. MSF USA is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourages individuals from all backgrounds to apply. The organization provides reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities or religious beliefs during the application process. Employment may be contingent upon satisfactory reference checks and background screening. The role may require domestic or international travel to provide communications support as needed.