The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is on the frontlines of the world’s most devastating humanitarian crises, providing vital support to people in urgent need of health, safety, education, economic stability, and dignity. Since its founding in 1933 by Albert Einstein, the IRC has grown into one of the world’s largest and most effective humanitarian organizations, with operations in over 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities.
As a force for humanity, we’re dedicated to restoring hope and empowering people affected by conflict and disaster to reclaim control of their futures. Our Communications, Marketing & Mobilization (M&M) team plays a key role in building the IRC’s global profile, raising awareness, driving donor engagement, and influencing policy to improve the lives of the people we serve. We’re now looking for a Communications Officer for East Africa to join our dynamic team.
About the Role
As part of the IRC’s Global Crisis and Response Communications Team (GCRC), the Communications Officer for East Africa will play a pivotal role in shaping and executing communications strategies that elevate the IRC’s work across the region. This role will involve working closely with country teams, media, and partners to highlight the urgent humanitarian crises in East Africa—particularly the ongoing crisis in Sudan—and the IRC’s impactful response efforts.
You’ll be responsible for leading communications strategies to increase the IRC’s visibility, raise awareness of humanitarian needs, support advocacy efforts, and drive fundraising objectives. You will work collaboratively across departments, lead media outreach campaigns, develop creative content, and ensure the IRC’s voice is amplified across key platforms.
This position is based in Nairobi, Kenya, with frequent travel within East Africa. You will have the opportunity to work in fast-paced, high-pressure situations, including during crises, to deliver breakthrough communications results.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and Implement Communications Strategies: Lead communications efforts across East Africa, focusing on raising awareness about the region’s crises and the IRC’s humanitarian impact. Develop strategies that align with the IRC’s global objectives, supporting fundraising, advocacy, and media outreach.
- Collaboration and Coordination: Work closely with IRC teams across the region—programming, advocacy, fundraising, and technical experts—to create compelling, integrated communications campaigns. Ensure that country-level communications activities are aligned with global goals and resonate at a national level.
- Media Relations and Content Creation: Deliver proactive media outreach, pitch story ideas, secure high-profile media coverage, and craft top-tier op-eds and digital content. Use your media expertise to increase the IRC’s share of voice in key markets such as the U.S., UK, and Europe.
- Crisis Communications: During emergencies, lead communications response efforts, including content gathering, field visits, and managing high-profile media interactions. Provide crisis communications support as needed, ensuring the IRC’s response is clear and impactful.
- Social Media and Digital Engagement: Oversee social media content for the East Africa region, driving engagement through creative and dynamic posts. Ensure regular updates on the IRC’s East Africa social media platforms, engaging both local and global audiences.
- Training and Capacity Building: Provide media training to IRC spokespeople and support the development of talking points, briefs, and other communication materials for field teams.
Qualifications
Education and Experience:
- A Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, international affairs, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
- 3-5 years of professional communications experience, preferably in international affairs or the humanitarian sector.
- Experience in producing and editing communications materials under tight deadlines, including press releases, op-eds, social media content, and talking points.
Skills and Competencies:
- Proven ability to work effectively in fast-paced, high-pressure environments.
- Strong writing, editing, and pitching skills with a focus on creating compelling narratives.
- Experience in media relations, particularly with international and humanitarian media.
- Creativity and a proactive approach to developing and executing communications strategies.
- Expertise in using digital media tools (photo, video, audio) to gather and edit content.
- Fluency in English is essential, and proficiency in Swahili or another East African language is strongly preferred.
Why Join the IRC?
By joining the IRC, you’ll be part of a global team working to make a real difference in the lives of the world’s most vulnerable people. You’ll have the opportunity to work on high-impact projects that change lives, collaborate with passionate colleagues from around the world, and contribute to our mission of restoring dignity and hope to communities affected by crisis.
The role offers the chance to have a lasting impact, both regionally and globally, as you help elevate the IRC’s voice in key crises and regions.
How to Apply
If you’re ready to make a difference and have the skills and experience to thrive in a challenging and rewarding environment, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.
The Communications Officer for East Africa position is a 1-year contract with the possibility of extension based on funding and organizational needs. We are committed to diversity and inclusion and encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.
Join and help raise awareness, drive change, and make a lasting impact for those who need it most.
APPLY HERE
IRC is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We actively encourage applications from all qualified individuals, particularly women and those from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.
