Communications and Public Outreach Officer – Embassy of Ireland, Nairobi, Kenya

Communications and Public Outreach Officer – Nairobi, Kenya

Embassy of Ireland, Nairobi

Introduction

The Embassy of Ireland in Nairobi is committed to promoting and protecting the values, interests, and economic well-being of Ireland and its people. As part of our ongoing efforts to strengthen Ireland’s presence and impact globally, we are seeking to recruit a Communications and Public Outreach Officer. This role is vital in ensuring that the Embassy’s mission and objectives are effectively communicated and understood both within Kenya and across our other countries of accreditation. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in enhancing the visibility of the Embassy and Ireland’s interests through strategic communication and public outreach initiatives.

Job Summary

The Communications and Public Outreach Officer will be responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive communication strategy for the Embassy. This role involves creating engaging content, coordinating public outreach activities, and monitoring political and media developments that impact the Embassy’s work. The officer will work closely with the Deputy Head of Mission, the Ambassador, and other Embassy staff to ensure a cohesive approach to communication and public engagement.

Key Responsibilities

1. Communications Strategy and Content Creation

• Develop and Implement Communication Plans: Create and lead the execution of a comprehensive communication plan that aligns with the Embassy’s strategic objectives.
• Content Creation: Produce high-quality content, including press releases, speeches, social media posts, and website materials that effectively promote the Embassy’s activities.
• Media Relations: Establish and maintain strong relationships with journalists and influencers across various media platforms to ensure widespread coverage of Ireland’s work.
• Social Media Management: Oversee the Embassy’s social media platforms, ensuring that content is engaging, timely, and aligned with the Embassy’s communication strategy.
• Media Monitoring: Regularly monitor media coverage related to Ireland and the Embassy’s activities, providing analysis and recommendations to senior management.

2. Public Outreach and Event Coordination

• Event Management: Design, coordinate, and execute public-facing events, both in-person and online, to enhance the visibility of the Embassy’s work.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Actively engage with key stakeholders, including government officials, media representatives, and civil society organizations, to promote Ireland’s strategic objectives in the region.
• Public Opinion Analysis: Monitor and analyze public opinion and legislative developments that may impact the Embassy’s operations or public image.

3. Media and Political Monitoring

• Political Tracking: Monitor and report on political developments in the region, providing timely analysis to the senior management team.
• Media Analysis: Track media engagement with the Embassy’s content, identifying opportunities to enhance visibility and impact.
• Reporting: Provide regular reports to senior management on media and political developments, including strategic recommendations for improving the Embassy’s public engagement.

Qualifications and Skills

Essential Requirements

• Educational Background: A relevant BA/BSc and a post-graduate qualification are required.
• Language Proficiency: Fluency in spoken and written English is essential. Proficiency in Kiswahili is highly desirable.
• Professional Experience: A minimum of five years of relevant professional experience in communications, public relations, or a related field.
• Communication Skills: Excellent interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills, with experience using social media for professional communication.
• Media Knowledge: A strong understanding of the Kenyan media landscape and the ability to navigate it effectively.
• Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and conceptual skills, with the ability to think strategically and plan effectively.
• Project Management: Proven experience in project management, with the ability to plan, manage, and deliver results.
• Networking Ability: Ability to network effectively and influence decisions within various stakeholder groups.
• Integrity and Trust: High degree of integrity and trust, with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Technical Proficiency: Proficient in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) and social media platforms. Additional IT skills, such as working with datasets, are beneficial.
• Travel Requirements: Candidates must be able to travel regularly within Kenya and potentially internationally, up to 30 days per year.
• Legal Entitlement: Candidates must have a legal entitlement to live and work in Kenya prior to recruitment.

Company Culture and Benefits

At the Embassy of Ireland in Nairobi, we are committed to fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment where every team member is valued. We believe in promoting professional growth and offer opportunities for career development. The Embassy is dedicated to ensuring that our employees are well-supported, both in their professional roles and in their overall well-being.

Work Environment

• Collaborative Culture: We foster a team-oriented environment where collaboration and mutual respect are key.
• Professional Growth: We provide opportunities for continuous learning and professional development.
• Inclusivity: We are committed to promoting diversity and inclusivity in the workplace, ensuring that all employees are treated with respect and fairness.

Employee Benefits

• Health Benefits: The Embassy operates an employee health benefits scheme to ensure the well-being of our staff.
• Pension Scheme: We offer a competitive pension scheme as part of our commitment to supporting our employees’ long-term financial security.
• Annual Leave: Employees are entitled to 21 days of annual leave per annum, providing ample time for rest and rejuvenation.
• Work-Life Balance: The standard working hours are from 8 am to 4 pm, Monday to Friday, with occasional out-of-hours work as required.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their completed application forms via email only to VacancyNairobiEM@dfa.ie. The subject line of the email should read Communications & Public Outreach Vacancy. Applications must be received before 16:30 hrs (local time) on Wednesday, 4 September 2024. Please note that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

Job Advert and Application Form Links

• Job Advert

• Application Form

Application Process

• Shortlisting: Depending on the number of applications received, a shortlisting process may be conducted based on the essential/key requirements outlined above.
• Interviews: Interviews will be held in person at the Embassy of Ireland in Nairobi in September 2024. A skills test may be included in the recruitment process, and a second interview may be conducted depending on the caliber of candidates.
• Security Clearance: Police security clearance will be required for individuals under consideration for appointment. Enquiries may also be made with the police force of any country in which the applicant has resided. If unsuccessful, this information will be destroyed.

Legal and Compliance Information

The Embassy of Ireland in Kenya is committed to a policy of equal opportunity. We do not charge any application or recruitment fees, whether refundable or not. All personal information received will be handled in compliance with GDPR guidelines, ensuring the confidentiality and security of candidate data.

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Conclusion

The Communications and Public Outreach Officer role at the Embassy of Ireland in Nairobi offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the promotion of Ireland’s values and interests in Kenya and beyond. We are looking for a dynamic and experienced professional who is passionate about communication and public engagement. If you meet the qualifications and are excited about this opportunity, we encourage you to apply and join our team in making a positive impact.