Director of Communications at Shamiri Institute

About the role:

• The Director of Communications will work closely with the CEO and Chief of Staff, leading our Communications team to deliver a high-level communication strategy. This strategic role is crucial to our expanding organization, responsible for conveying our essential work to the public, driving engagement, breaking stigma, and ultimately enhancing our impact in the mental health space.

Roles and responsibilities:

Strategic communication:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive communication strategy that aligns with the organization's mission and goals.
• Craft compelling messages that effectively convey the importance of mental health awareness, destigmatization, and access to mental health services.
• Collaborate with key stakeholders including the executive team, program staff, and volunteers to ensure consistent and impactful messaging across various communication channels.
• Manage crisis communications and guide the communication team during emergencies or public relations issues.

Media relations:

• Cultivate and maintain relationships with local, national, and international media outlets, journalists, and influencers to promote the organization's initiatives and campaigns.
• Prepare press releases, media kits, and other materials to communicate organizational news, events, and achievements.
• Serve as the organization's spokesperson and manage media inquiries.
• Organize and manage press conferences, interviews, and other media events.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Represent the organization at events, meetings, conferences, and forums to raise awareness about our work and engage stakeholders.
• Communicate our mission succinctly and effectively with various stakeholders, including donors, partners, and beneficiaries.
• Work closely with the fundraising team to develop and execute communication strategies that align with fundraising goals.

Content creation:

• Oversee the creation of engaging and informative content, including articles, blog posts, videos, infographics, newsletters, and social media posts, to raise awareness and educate the public about mental health issues.
• Develop and maintain a content calendar to ensure consistent and timely delivery of messages across multiple channels in coordination with the Social Media Manager.
• Supervise the creation of annual reports and other major publications.

Digital and social media:

• Lead the organization's presence on digital platforms, including the website, social media, and email marketing, to drive engagement and reach a wider audience
• Work with Social Media Manager to act on social media trends, respond to comments, and proactively engage with followers.
• Coordinate regularly updating the website, ensuring it effectively communicates the organization's mission, values, and work.
• Oversee the design and implementation of email marketing campaigns, and ensure they adhere to best practices.

Advocacy and partnerships:

• Collaborate with Engage team to promote policy changes that enhance mental health support systems and services.
• Identify and establish partnerships with relevant organizations, influencers, and institutions to amplify the organization's impact.
• Develop strategic communication plans for partnerships and collaborations.

Internal communication:

• Foster effective communication within the organization by ensuring that staff members are informed about key initiatives, updates, and developments.
• Provide guidance to team members to ensure consistent messaging and alignment with the organization's communication goals.

Measurement and reporting:

• Track and analyze the effectiveness of communication strategies and campaigns, using relevant metrics and data.
• Prepare regular reports for senior leadership, highlighting successes, areas for improvement, and recommendations for future initiatives.
• Keep abreast of industry trends and benchmark the organization's communication practices against those of similar organizations. 

Who we're looking for:

• We are looking for a dynamic, strategic thinker with strong leadership skills and a passion for mental health. Ideal candidates should have substantial experience in communications or a related field, a proven track record of creating and implementing effective communication strategies, and exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Please apply through our online application portal. Please note that you will be requested to upload your resume and cover letter in addition to completing a skills assessment.