Communications Consultant

Objective:

Oxfam America is seeking a consultant to support the implementation of Oxfam’s advocacy and public campaign efforts implemented under the TAP 2 project, with a particular focus on leading the communications work. This includes taking a lead role in developing and implementing comprehensive communications, dissemination and influencing strategies and implementation plans for different key advocacy moments – this ranges from global meetings and events to the launch of Oxfam research and policy papers and other products. The approach to developing and implementing the communications strategies and plans will be both participatory and consultative. Key stakeholders, including internal Oxfam staff and external partners, will be engaged in the process.

Responsibilities:

• Support Oxfam’s global TAP 2 project team and Oxfam regional / country teams to develop project and campaigns communication strategy and implementation plans for key advocacy moments. Specific tasks include: identification of the target audiences; identification of the communication objective for each targeted audience; development of key messages; identification of main communication channels and strategies to reach the different audiences; identification of the communication products and activities tailored to each audience; development of work plans; and event planning and management.
• Manage, plan and produce high-quality communication print and digital communication content and products and follow Oxfam’s sign-off protocols.
• Lead TAP 2 engagement plans at key national, regional and global in-person events.
• Liaise with different Oxfam affiliates, regional and country teams to confederation members to deliver high-quality media projects and compelling story-gathering materials for national, regional and global media markets, and wider social media and communications needs.
• Advise on media and communication as part of advocacy issues together with relevant TAP 2 project staff.
• Ensure the use of brand tools including logos, fonts, writing style, templates and artwork is line with Oxfam regulation.

Required Qualifications:

Education:

A degree or post graduate qualification in media, communications, sociology, digital marketing, or social change related disciplines; or an equivalent combination of education, experience, and training.

Experience and Core Competencies:

• Five to seven years of work experience in public relations / communications field at national, regional or international level with specific experience in Africa required. At least five years spent in a similar role / doing similar work for an international organization.
• Direct experience with or demonstrated understanding of NGO global media / advocacy work in the context of international development.
• Demonstrated understanding of policy issues and global policy environment for aid effectiveness, agriculture development and climate justice issues.
• Ability to work effectively across different Oxfam teams from different country, regional and global offices, utilizing prioritization and multi-tasking skills.
• High level interpersonal and diplomatic skills along with awareness of political sensitivities in different settings.
• Creative thinking, developing, designing, or creating new ideas, relationships, systems, or products.
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills, fluency in English essential. French languages skills are desired.
• Some graphic design skills and ability to develop simple infographics is desirable.
• Commitment to Oxfam’s safeguarding policies to ensure all people who come into contact with Oxfam are as safe as possible.