Director of Communication, Public Relations & Engagement 11 views

Director of Communication, Public Relations & Engagement

Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Reports to: CEO

Closing Date: July 20, 2026

Job summary

We are seeking a visionary and dynamic Director of Communication, Public Relations & Engagement to join our executive leadership team. This is a pivotal role designed for a strategic storyteller and relationship builder who can elevate our institutional brand, foster meaningful global partnerships, and lead a high-performing team in a mission-driven environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Communication & Public Relations

• Develop and implement a comprehensive communication and PR strategy aligned with the organization’s vision, mission, and values
• Lead storytelling initiatives that highlight institutional impact, achievements, and community engagement
• Oversee internal and external communication channels to ensure consistency, clarity, and professionalism
• Manage media relations, press releases, interviews, and public statements
• Ensure reputation management and crisis communication readiness
• Strengthen brand positioning through strategic messaging and narrative development

Social Media Management & Digital Engagement

• Design and execute a multi-platform social media strategy (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, YouTube, etc.)
• Oversee content creation, scheduling, publishing, and performance optimization
• Lead engagement strategies to grow followers, increase interaction, and strengthen community presence
• Monitor analytics and insights to improve content effectiveness and reach
• Ensure visual and written content maintains brand identity and consistency
• Manage digital campaigns and online awareness initiatives Marketing Strategy & Execution
• Develop and implement annual marketing plans to promote programs, services, and institutional visibility
• Lead brand development, promotional campaigns, and marketing collateral production
• Conduct market research to identify trends, opportunities, and audience needs
• Oversee advertising campaigns (digital, print, outdoor, and media placements)
• Measure marketing performance and adjust strategies based on data-driven insights
• Ensure alignment between marketing activities and organizational goals

Strategic Partnerships & Stakeholder Engagement

• Identify, develop, and manage strategic partnerships with local and international stakeholders
• Build relationships with government agencies, NGOs, private sector partners, and donors
• Lead partnership negotiations, agreements, and collaboration frameworks
• Represent the organization in high-level meetings, forums, and public events
• Strengthen stakeholder engagement strategies to support institutional growth
• Explore funding, sponsorship, and collaboration opportunities

Leadership & Team Management

• Lead, mentor, and develop the Communication, PR, Marketing, and Digital Media team
• Set departmental goals, KPIs, and performance standards
• Foster creativity, innovation, and collaboration within the team
• Coordinate cross-departmental communication to ensure alignment
• Manage budgets and resource allocation for communication and marketing activities

Qualifications & Requirements

• Education: Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Media Studies, or Business Administration.
• Experience: 5–8 years of progressive leadership experience in communications or marketing.
• Sector Knowledge: Proven track record in the education, NGO, or international development sector is highly advantageous.
• Technical Expertise: Strong portfolio in brand development, digital marketing, and successful partnership negotiations.
• Personal Attributes: Excellent interpersonal skills, a result-oriented mindset, and a commitment to values of justice, peace, and service to humanity.

Core Competencies

• Exceptional storytelling and content development skills.
• Strategic planning and analytical decision-making.
• Advanced crisis management and reputation protection.
• Fluency in English (both written and spoken) is essential.