Communication Officer

JOB SUMMARY: Communication Officer (CO) reports directly to the Country Manager in his/her respective country and is responsible for managing the communication plan and activities in the country of operation under the oversight and guidance of the International Communications Department at RTP HQ. Further the CO is expected to assist in enhancing the organization’s overall public image in the country. The incumbent works closely with the Program Manager, the Monitoring and Evaluation Officer and the Training Officer.   RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS  Job Responsibility #1PLANNING and COMPLIANCE: (approximate time: 35%) Develops and implements an annual Communication Plan, in line with Regional Office Communication Plan. Provides leadership for overall communications related to Right To Play in country of operation. Ensures that all communication materials and messages are in-line with all project grant agreements. Conducts field visits to project sites and ensures proper dissemination of information for events, success stories, etc. Ensures proper documentation of communication materials. Conducts ongoing review of the communication plan and communications components of country action and strategic plans to ensure compliance; identifies gap areas and recommends solutions. Ensures Right To Play promotion of various International “Days” (Child Day, Diabetes Day etc.) are in-line with national strategy and behavioural and social goals. Facilitates relationship building with country and community opinion leaders and celebrities (including Athlete Ambassadors/Supporters) to endorse and disseminate behaviour modification messages for social mobilization campaigns in region. Ensures compliance with RTP Brand Book, Child Protection Communication Policy and other policies related to communication.   Job Responsibility #2: Communication (approximate time: 35%) In coordination with the Regional Communication Officer (RCO), develops systems for effective and efficient communication and best practice sharing within the country office Coordinates with the RCO to develop a system to produce personal stories, quotes and photographs of Coaches and children in our programs; oversees photo archiving. Develops informational and promotional material on RTP projects. Trains country team on the value and usage of the brand. Liaises with printing and design companies, edits design when required. Oversees and approves all print proofs in the country before being printed including T-shirts, documents, etc. Acts as a focal point on the “play-space” intranet.   Job Responsibility #3: MEDIA AND PUBLIC RELATIONS: (approximate time: 25%) Develops and maintains relationships with country, and locally based media. Closely monitors and tracks media coverage for RTP and Sport for development in country. Establishes contacts with media, writes media releases, success stories etc. Conducts media development activities in country to build capacity of local media, and advocate for the role of sport of development and the role sport can do in meeting development goals. Promotes partnerships across the organisation and beyond, and represents RTP on all relevant communication networks. Accompanies and supports high-profile visitors to the country when delegated. Works with Country Office team to develop and implement media relations strategy for any high-profile visit to the country/region including preparing background materials, relevant packages.   Job Responsibility #4: Performs other duties as assigned (approximate time: 5%)   EXPERIENCE Required (must have):       At least three years of relevant experience Experience in developing communication plans and material, working with I/NGO in the country of operation and media relations   COMPETENCIES / PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES Required (must have): Excellent interpersonal and communication skills both written and verbal A solid team player with respect for others Ability to understand and motivate others Proven ability in transferring knowledge and experience Adaptable with the ability to deal with stress using healthy coping skills Demonstrated professionalism and positive attitude Effective organization skills Open to giving and receiving assessment and feedback Belief in principles of inclusion in sport and play Written and verbal communication skills, and confidence using these in a cross cultural environment   KNOWLEDGE AND TECHNICAL SKILLS: Required (must have): Fluency in Arabic and English Languages. Strong MS Office and the ability to use PowerPoint Strong in using Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator   Desired (asset): Holding a Driving License is an asset Graphic design, photography, and printing experience Demonstrable experience in policy and networking Interested in human rights and social change issues Experience working in child protection  Experience and knowledge of photography High degree of tact, diplomacy and discretion