Communications Specialist

MAIN PURPOSE OF JOB:

The Communications Specialist takes part in developing communications strategies and plans, enhancing SAFEMed project’s communication tools, and implementing a variety of communications and change management initiatives. The Communications Specialist will be responsible for developing a range of communication and visual materials: presentations, banners, news digests, technical reports, etc in close cooperation with key technical advisors and project COP. The Communications Specialist will participate in events organized by the project or its stakeholders, record interviews, write success stories, press releases, and other communication materials.

LOCATION: Kyiv, Ukraine

Major Activities / Responsibilities:

1. Developing Communications Materials

• Assist in the preparation of project-related communications materials;
• Participation in events and preparation of communication materials before/after forums, conferences, monitoring visits;
• Prepare visual communication materials: slide presentations, infographics, certificates, banners, leaflets, slides deck, brochure, technical reports, factsheets and relevant layouts and templates for project activities in close consultation with project key technical advisors and project COP;
• Following the approved branding and marking plan, work with project staff to ensure all materials follow SAFEMed branding guidelines; keeping updated templates for all materials;
• Visually set up SAFEMed monthly newsletter;
• Conduct media monitoring;
• Support design elements of social media campaigns;
• Provide support in coordinating communications projects for the MOH, NHSU, MPU and SAFEMed;
• Ensure proper storage and organization of all communication resources and sharing across the project, Establish and maintain a clear structure for storing and processing organizational documents, as well as optimizing internal processes to enhance the team’s efficiency.
• Updating relevant pages using current information (annual reports, quarterly reports, country postings) working with communications staff.
• Translate print communication materials from English to Ukrainian and from Ukrainian to English as needed.

2. Coordinating Communication Activities

• Provide support in coordinating communications events for the MOH, NHSU, MPU and SAFEMed;
• Assist in ensuring the desired level of visibility of the SAFEMed activities;
• Works with communications vendors on as needed basis on implementation of specific projects;
• Prepare press briefings and talking points for participants as needed;
• Maintain an electronic file of all the communication materials.

QUALIFICATIONS

REQUIRED MINIMUM EDUCATION

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, marketing, communications or related field

REQUIRED MINIMUM EXPERIENCE

Required:

• 3-5 years’ experience in media or communications.

Preferred:

• Experience in global health or development
• Knowledge of USAID branding and marking requirements.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

• Experience with email distribution platforms, preferably MailChimp. Experience with communication through social media, ideally experience in converting technical documents into shorter informative pieces for web or blogs.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office programs (MS Word, Powerpoint, Excel), and Adobe Creative Suite (Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop), Canva.
• An excellent command of English and Ukrainian languages (oral and written);
• Copywriting and presentation skills;
• Familiarity with social media platforms (Х, Facebook, LinkedIn etc.);
• Excellent oral and written communication skills;
• Ability to analyze, process and synthesize a big amount of information and data.