Communications Consultant, Office of the MD, Africa and Global Partnerships at World Resources Institute (WRI)

Role Overview

• In this new role, you will support one of the boldest voices in the environment and development community, Wanjira Mathai, Managing Director for Africa and Global Partnerships (MD), as communications strategist and writer. You will support the MD in all aspects of their external communications, building upon their existing global profile and relationships.
• Your strong strategic communications and writing skills, global perspective and existing media connections will be crucial for this role. You should be familiar with issues in the environment, economics, and sustainable development. Your experience working in an international context and sensitivity to the values and behavior of people from different backgrounds and cultures will be essential.  You will be held to the highest standard in representing and upholding WRI’s core values and always help to ensure that the MD’s communications align with our overall mission and goals.

Strategic Communications and Speechwriting (80%):

• Oversee external writing for the MD, including drafting and reviewing articles, commentaries and op-eds, press statements, quotes, and related products
• Develop compelling speeches and presentations for the MD’s external engagements, speaking events and meetings
• Evaluate and manage speaking opportunities and proactively seek out new speaking events to raise the profile of the MD and WRI broadly, while ensuring alignment between executives
• Develop strong relationships with members of the media, seek out new media opportunities and manage media requests for the MD. Oversee preparation and talking points for all media interviews
• Manage the MD’s social media presence to expand their thought leadership, global reach and influence. Oversee public content for the MD, including digital assets, videos, podcasts, photos, and other products

Stakeholder Engagement (20%):

• Develop and implement an influence strategy for the MD to engage with key decision makers and stakeholders
• Map influence targets for the MD to build relationships, maintain a working knowledge of the MD’s relationships with key decision makers and their staff, and set up meetings in line with the strategy

Education: You have completed a Bachelors degree
Experience:

• You have 10+ years of experience in a communications role, preferably at a non-profit or mission-based organizations
• Experience working in a global setting and understanding of work in global markets
• Proven leadership and track record of carrying out high-level communications strategies
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills including strong writing, editing, speechwriting and proofreading abilities
• Strong grasp of media relations strategy; understanding of print, broadcast, and online media; and proven track record of securing high level placement of stories and quotes in top media outlets
• Ability to understand and quickly synthesize complex ideas
• Familiarity with digital channels and strategies
• Ability to project a positive image for the MD and the organization
• Proven ability to ensure quality control of external information
• Ability to communicate in clear, persuasive, concise ways with team members and senior management
• Work well under pressure and handle stressful situations.  Excellent, creative problem-solving skills
• Language: Proficiency in verbal and written English, with French as an added advantage