Senior Media Officer (Damascus, Syria)

Purpose of the Position

The Senior Media Officer leads the development and implementation of the organization’s media and communication strategy in Syria. The role involves producing high-quality multimedia content, strengthening the organization’s brand and visibility, and ensuring effective engagement with local, regional, and international audiences. The position requires advanced expertise in media production, strong analytical skills, and the ability to manage complex communication initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Media & Communications

Develop and implement a comprehensive media and visibility strategy aligned with organizational goals.

Lead on brand positioning and ensure alignment with donor visibility requirements.

Provide strategic advice to senior management on media opportunities and risks.

2. Content Creation & Oversight

Produce professional-grade multimedia content (documentaries, campaigns, success stories).

Supervise external media consultants, photographers, and videographers.

Ensure all content meets ethical standards, data protection, and conflict-sensitive communication.

3. Media Relations & Networking

Build and maintain relationships with local, regional, and international media outlets.

Draft and pitch press releases, op-eds, and feature stories to mainstream media.

Represent the organization in media events and press briefings.

4. Digital Engagement & Social Media

Manage official digital platforms and oversee targeted social media campaigns.

Analyse performance metrics and optimize digital outreach strategies.

Introduce innovative communication tools (interactive platforms, live coverage, podcasts).

5. Capacity Building & Internal Support

Train field staff on ethical communication, photography, and documentation.

Provide technical guidance to program teams on donor visibility and reporting.

Build internal systems for archiving and managing media resources.

6. Monitoring, Evaluation & Reporting

Lead media monitoring, risk analysis, and reporting on visibility KPIs.

Produce regular communication reports for donors and HQ.

Document lessons learned and best practices in media and communications.

Qualifications & Requirements

Master’s or bachelor’s degree in media, Journalism, Communications, or related field.

Minimum 5–7 years of professional experience in media/communications (preferably with NGOs, UN agencies, or international organizations).

Proven track record in managing media strategies and campaigns at national/international level.

Prefer: Advanced expertise in photography, videography, editing (Adobe Suite, Final Cut Pro, After Effects etc.).

Strong writing and editing skills in both Arabic and English (French is a plus).

Expert with humanitarian contexts and donor visibility standards.

Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple priorities, and meet tight deadlines.

HAND maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards exploitation, abuse, and harassment and is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults.