Communications Manager at Henry Jackson Foundation Medical Research International (HJFMRI)

• HJFMRI Kenya is seeking a Communications Manager to to support HJFMRI’s external communications strategy in Kenya. This position will plan, manage and implement communication projects to promote HJFMRI activities in Kenya including infectious diseases research, surveillance and PEPFAR.
• This position will be in support of HJFMRI Regional Office Kenya activities with travel to Kericho and Kisumu expected.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a communications strategy that promotes public awareness of and support for HJFMRI’s programs among internal and external audiences.
• Create compelling content for various channels including social media, website, briefing books, itineraries, newsletters, and factsheets, and press releases.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment of branding, messaging and consistency across all communication channels.
• Work closely with HJF Global ID Communications Office regarding website and social media content submissions; consistency of logos, letterheads, and templates with current branding guidance; and general communication opportunities and issues that arise throughout the year.
• Foster close collaborative relationship with WRAIR-Africa, which may include attending regular meetings at the Embassy. Coordinate external promotions with US Embassy.
• Supports crisis and issues communication, in alignment with USG and HJFMRI’s global and regional crisis plans and procedures.
• Builds and maintains relationships with partners and stakeholders across all levels to gather the exchange information, support internal communications and engagement while ensuring alignment with the company’s strategy and priorities and maximize communications opportunities.
• Monitors media/social media activity, manages the media landscape in Kenya, including building contacts to key media and journalists, identifying promotional opportunities and drafting supporting materials such as press releases.
• May perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned or directed by the supervisor. This may include attendance of and participation in required training for role.

Required Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft clear, concise, and persuasive messaging for various audiences.
• Creative thinker with a strategic mindset and a passion for storytelling.
• Knowledge of design tools such as Canva, Adobe Express. Experience with Adobe design suite (i.e., Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, etc.) would be helpful.
• Keen ability to distill complex ideas and scientific information into language appropriate for a lay audience.
• Extremely organized, detail-oriented, comfortable asking questions and diligent follow up; proven project management skills.
• Must be collaborative and have strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills, with an ability to identify, communicate and resolve problems

Physical Capabilities

• Ability to stand or sit at a computer for prolonged periods.
• Operating motor vehicles, machinery, and/or power tools.

Qualifications
Education and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree in Communications, English, Journalism or related field of study required.
• Minimum of 3-5 years experience required

Work Environment

• This position will take place primarily in an office setting.