Strategic Communications Consultant

Background The purpose of the LIFE project is to improve economic opportunities and livelihoods of low income individuals and microenterprises by expanding financial inclusion and building financial literacy and business skills. LIFE’s primary objectives include strengthening the Lebanon Microfinance Association (LMFA) to provide information, training, and policy advocacy to improve financial inclusion in Lebanon, strengthening microfinance institutions to improve their performance and reach, and stimulating the demand for microfinance through business development training and start up grants. As such, LIFE will bring microfinance actors to new levels of scale and sustainability, enabling them to reach more clients and vulnerable populations (youth, women, and physically impaired) in rural communities and communities that currently host large numbers of Syrian refugees. Strategic communications that consolidate and promote key programming and achievements are essential to the success of the LIFE project.  It is essential that the project maintain high quality and strategic communications materials that are information-rich, compelling and target key audiences.  Objective The Strategic Communications consultant will review the LIFE Communications Strategy, social media accounts, and communications materials, outreach, and event management. The consultant will work with the communications manager to review and augment the LIFE Communications Strategy and develop additional strategic communications guidelines, products, and milestone targets. The consultant will work with the LIFE communications manager to develop a detailed events calendar and promotional and logistics plans for upcoming events, develop social media posts and success stories that reflect best practices.   Full deliverables will be defined during the interview process. Qualifications: Experience working in international development and with USAID a plus At least 5 years of experience in communications and/or marketing Excellent ability to identify compelling stories, integrate qualitative narrative with quantitative results, and draft communications materials in English Candidate must be based in and eligible to work in Lebanon. Candidate must be able to visit the LIFE Project office in Beirut, Lebanon to complete assignment.   Timeline: Application window closes July 7, 2017. The consultant will have 12 days to complete the assignment and must have availability to begin in July, 2017.