Somalia: Media and Communications Officer

Oxfam is convinced that people have the power to end poverty. All they need is an opportunity. Oxfam is committed to make sure everyone gets that chance. That is why we support local projects in developing countries, why we lobby governments and companies to listen to the poorest people, and why we campaign to involve both men and women in our work. Oxfam is a confederation of 17 organizations that works together to increase the impact of its long term development and humanitarian responses.

The Country Office in Somaliland is currently recruiting for a

Media and Communications Officer

National position

Fulltime/ 40 hours a week

1 year contract

Based in Hargeisa, Somaliland

Shaping a stronger Oxfam for people living in poverty.

Job Purpose

Leadership: Lead and coordinate all aspects of Oxfam’s media and communications work for Somaliland.

Strengthen Network: Ensure impact (local, regional, continental, and global) by proactively maintaining close links with Somaliland program team, Oxfam’s regional platform, Oxfam affiliates, and Oxfam international.

Raise Awareness: Facilitate awareness-raising by arranging national and international media visits, as well as the production of multimedia materials.

Value-Driven: Contribute to building a positive culture in the Somaliland office by promoting Oxfam’s values—empowerment, inclusiveness, and accountability—in your own actions as well as in your media and communications activities.

Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities

· Raise the profile of the drought crisis, as well as Oxfam’s response in Somaliland, by ensuring timely and regular information sharing within Oxfam and external stakeholders;

· Increase affiliate engagement on the Somaliland response by regularly sharing compelling content to be used in media, communications and campaigning;

· Assist in providing information and updates to inform policy messaging and advocacy work;

· Raise the profile of Oxfam’s work with local and international media houses;

· Coordinate the raising of the capacity of national media on the issues Oxfam and its partners work on;

· Promote Oxfam’s work with Somaliland stakeholders e.g. government, public as well as online audiences (diaspora), donors, UN, NGOs and other external audiences.

· Secure national, regional, and international media coverage that supports Oxfam’s humanitarian, programme, and fundraising objectives in Somaliland.

· Lead and coordinate (affiliate) content-gathering and media trips.

· Coordinate blogs, case studies, and human-interest stories to be used for media pitches, social media (regional blog), and other communications needs.

· Lead on the development of monthly news letters

· Maintain an updated media pitching document outlining key potential story ideas, information regarding where Oxfam works in Somaliland, and what journalists can expect to see and do on a facilitated visit.

· Providing media and communications support to all members of the Oxfam in Somaliland team.

· In collaboration with Programme staff, arrange capacity building sessions for national journalists on thematic areas Oxfam and its partners work.

· Building key media relationships, and providing media training to staff to raise increase understanding and support Oxfam’s spokespeople in preparation of public engagements.

· Participate in relevant communications and media coordination meetings at Hargeisa level (with partner organizations, at other NGOs or UN agencies, government bodies, etc.) to ensure a positive image of Oxfam and to facilitate information sharing.

· Carry out other relevant tasks as directed by the Country Director

Technical Skills, Experience & Knowledge

Essential

· University degree in Communications, Journalism or related field, or comprehensive practical experience in a similar position.

· At least 3-5 years of demonstrated experience in communications, media, or related field

· In depth knowledge of international organizations and the humanitarian sector

· Independent working, decision-making, and response to sometimes unpredictable challenges, using creative and innovative solutions where appropriate

· Expert knowledge of relevant media

· Experience pitching and securing media coverage in international outlets

· Video and photography

· Social media adeptness

· Excellent written and verbal communications skills

· Ability to work effectively and calmly in a high-pressure environment

· An understanding of how to prioritize and manage assignments in a timely fashion

· Fluency in written English required; Somali fluency preferred. Other language skills are an advantage.

· Understanding of and commitment to Oxfam’s aims, values, and principles.

Application procedure

Please send your application to Somaliajobs@oxfamnovib.nl and include your motivation letter and CV. Your application must be received by Wednesday 16 November 2017 at the latest. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Please send your application to Somaliajobs@oxfamnovib.nl and include your motivation letter and CV. Your application must be received by Wednesday 16 November 2017 at the latest. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.