Communications Specialist

Since 1963 and in 148 countries, ACDI/VOCA has empowered people in developing and transitional nations to succeed in the global economy. Based in Washington, D.C., ACDI/VOCA is a nonprofit international development organization that delivers technical and management assistance in agribusiness, financial services, enterprise development, community development, and food security to promote broad-based economic growth and vibrant civil societies. ACDI/VOCA has approximately 34 projects in 19 countries and total revenues of approximately $128 million.

Overview:

ACDI/VOCA is currently implementing a five-year program entitled “Enterprise Development and Growth Enhanced (EDGE) Activity” in Zambia funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The aim of the Zambia EDGE Activity is to increase the profitability for agricultural small and medium enterprises (SMEs) by addressing their key investment constraints on access to finance, limited business management skills and technology, and access to markets, thereby increasing SMEs’ productivity and ability to create new jobs in Zambia.
Pursuant to its mission, ACDI/VOCA is seeking experienced and talented professionals for the Communications Specialist position. This position is based in Lusaka and reports to Director of MEL and CLA. Communications Specialist will plan, execute and manage the Activity’s communication strategy to increase the Activity’s visibility and impact and communicate implementation progress.

Responsibilities:

Develops and leads communications activities

Manages and develops appropriate positioning, messaging and dissemination strategies for the Activity. Ensures compliance with communications policies and standards set by donors, ACDI/VOCA and the host government. Ensures compliance with branding and marking requirements for all offices, events, and internal and external communications and learning materials. Oversees the quality, frequency and effectiveness of all Activity messaging to the donors, relevant government entities, partners, beneficiaries, media and other key audiences. Facilitates information sharing and access within the project and within country. Supports the management and development of knowledge and information management systems. Builds communications strategies into various Activity components and captures and relays relevant information to stakeholders. Coordinates internal and external communications to create a cohesive and coherent

ACDI/VOCA presence with employees and partners.

Develops processes and systems for crisis communications, assuming lead role in a crisis communications event, if required. Ensures that all preparatory information for field visits or official (public) events involving staff members meets quality standards and time requirements.

Executes promotional materials, communications and learning deliverables and related activities and products

Supports technical staff in the collection and writing of success stories, lessons learned, case studies and other learning communications. Builds capacity and provides communications support to the technical team, to help them better communicate development and change. Reports to the donor, host country institutions, media, and ACDI/VOCA on activities and achievements. Supports and/or leads the organization of Activity-sponsored events. Helps prepare and coordinate periodic performance reports for the donor. Develops and updates information for the Activity website. Supports Director MEL & CLA in rolling out a collaboration, learning and adaption plan for the Activity.

Represents ACDI/VOCA to government, media, partners, donors, beneficiaries, and other aid agencies. Prepares for crises and takes a lead role in crisis communications. Serves as principal contact for local and international press and media, coordinating with project management, headquarters, and donor as required.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• A degree in Communication, Development Communication or its equivalent
• A minimum of 5 years’ experience in development communication and knowledge management with NGOs or private sector organizations.
• Knowledge of international development theory, practices, and issues. Advanced knowledge of communications and media for international development programs.
• Strong communications planning skills – understanding how to plan and implement the strategy
• Ability to research, analyze, evaluate and synthesize information
• Fluency in written and spoken English is a must.
• Proven in-depth ability to use the Microsoft Office Suite software as well as publishing and web development software.
• Preparedness to travel frequently to project sites including remote locations

To Apply:

Please submit a resume to [email protected] no later than November 26, 2020. Please include the position title in the subject line. The resume and related application documents shall be provided as a single attachment and list long-term employment history and any relevant short-term consulting work. Due to the high volume of applications we are not able to respond to inquiries via phone or email. Only shortlisted candidates considered for an interview will be contacted. ACDI/VOCA is an equal opportunity employer. Women, minorities and people from diverse groups are encouraged to apply.