Communications Officer

INITIATE is looking to hire a Communication Officer that will be responsible to ensure the design and implementation of INITIATE’s communication strategy. He/she will provide strategic guidance in communication across the organization in accordance with INITIATE’s policies and procedures by using timely and relevant methods to promote INITIATE’s activities in Lebanon.  

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

External Communications

• Ensure effective communication in order to maintain a good image for the organization and build the organization influence, in line with INITIATE’s communication strategy.
• Support Project Managers in developing and implementing project-specific Communications Strategies, in line with donors’ guidelines and requirements. 
• Facilitate relevant visits of international journalists, National Office Media & Comms and other interested parties and co-ordinate their activities with the Program Managers.

Internal Communications 

• Advise management on various, creative, diversified and effective channels to communicate to external audiences.
• Assist in the formulation and implementation of Country Communications Strategy.
• Assist in drafting press releases, press advisory messages and press packets in English and Arabic for journalists.
• Develop content for INITIATE’s Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and other social media platforms as relevant, to ensure regular influencing messages are being uploaded and audiences are constantly engaged.
• Respond on timely basis to online queries
• Write, edit, and distribute content, including publications, press releases, website content, annual reports, speeches, and other marketing material that communicates the organization's activities.
• Seek opportunities to enhance the reputation of the organization, and coordinate publicity events as required.
• Cover Field visits, write human interest stories and success stories, pitch stories ideas for the field staff.
• Edit, proofread and write photo storied, human interest stories and success stories.
• Organize field visits; support the preparation of visibility material/activities as required.
• Maintain records of media coverage
• Proficiency in using all social media platforms
• Carry out administrative tasks as agreed upon, preparing contracts, purchase requests, purchase vouchers, review bills and other tasks.
• Provide logistical assistance to the project’s activities, mainly in the preparation of the launching events and Media Campaign, education and local level related activities.

Visibility and branding

• • Ensure the correct use of all the branding elements in all the external communications materials and public events, including logos and layouts.
  • Assist in Producing targeted and quality communications and visibility materials such as best practices, success stories, case studies, brochures, posters, videos, photos, etc.
  • Assist in Establishing, and maintaining strategic partnership with media and public relations partners in order to boost Plan’s image, profile and visibility in the Country.

Requirements

• • Bachelor's degree in communications, Public Relations, or related field.
  • Minimum of 2-5 years' relevant experience in a communications role.
  • Knowledge of desktop publishing software (InDesign/Photoshop) is a plus.
  • Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal skills.
  • Time management and organizational skills.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office, content management systems, and social media platforms.
  • Understand the best practices of main social media channels including Facebook, Instagram etc
  • Must possess exceptional writing skills and be able to compose engaging and accurate content
  • Strong communicator who works well independently and with a team
  • Ability to think strategically and identify ways to improve communication efforts
  • Must be resourceful and take initiative even when given minimal direction