Communications Associate, Institute for Human Development at Aga Khan University Hospital

Job Summary

Using communications best practice, creativity and a dynamic approach, the Communications Associate plans, develops, implements and evaluates communications plans to support the goals and priorities of the Institute for Human Development (IHD). Using a keen understanding of our targeted internal and external audiences, the incumbent takes a solutions-oriented approach to addressing gaps and challenges in internal and external communication efforts. The Communications Associate maps stakeholders and demonstrates the value and impact of IHD through speeches, news releases, op-eds, newsletters and articles for use internally on AKU digital and print channels and externally in events, traditional media and social media platforms. He/she provides broad-based and project-specific communications advice to IHD staff and faculty, supporting them to develop key messages and make informed decisions. The Communications Associate collaborates with the broader AKU communications team to ensure integration in messaging and tactics and to leverage synergies.

Responsibilities

• Support in developing, implementing and evaluating internal and external communications plans to support communications priorities;
• Use a multi-media approach to communications, matching tactic to goal and end result;
• Work with research and project teams to make their research relevant in the mainstream, including op-ed pieces;
• Work closely with the Manager, Digital Communications, to manage web and social media communications;
• Support media relations and event communications;
• Work in collaboration with the Communications Officer, East Africa, to build relationships with regional and local media houses to showcase activities and impact;
• Coordinate logistics and liaise with media for on-site events and promotions;
• Support communications for events;
• Support the global communications strategy and corporate communication channels;
• Research, write and edit compelling stories related to the IHD for internal and external use and promotion;
• Contribute to internal AKU newsletters, profiling IHD activities and impact;
• Understand the differences between writing for print, digital and social channels and use to tell good stories;
• Align significant communications plans with the global communication strategy; and
• Any other role given by the supervisor 

Requirements

• Degree in Communications, Journalism, Social Sciences or equivalent, from a recognized university or post-secondary institution;
• At least 3 years’ experience in communications, marketing, media relations, public relations or related field;
• Demonstrable experience creating successful communications plans;
• Demonstrable experience with communications best practice;
• An understanding of stakeholder engagement;
• Issues management and crisis communications;
• Demonstrable experience with digital and print communications;
• Excellent writing and editing skills;
• Knowledge of web content management; and
• Knowledge of the media industry with contacts within various media organisations

Closing Date: 27/08/2023