MSF is an international, independent medical humanitarian organization. We are a non-profit, self-governed worldwide movement of more than 63,000 people.

We provide emergency medical assistance during armed conflict, natural disasters, outbreaks of deadly diseases and assist those who are excluded from healthcare. MSF delivers care based on need and when we see injustice, we speak out. We are an organization that remains impartial, knowledgeable, and effective, and this is what makes the difference between life and death.

People are our priority. At Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF)/Artsen zonder Grenzen, we are committed to an inclusive culture that encourages and supports the diverse voices of our employees. We encourage diverse applicants including individuals of all gender identities, ages, sexual orientations, nationalities, races, religions, beliefs, social and marital status, people with different abilities and all other diversity characteristics and how they work together.

 

Communications Manager

 

Main Purpose

To define, implement, coordinate and supervise all operational communication activities according to MSF standards in country of operations/or during an emergency. The FCM aims at building MSF’s temoniage based on its “telling it as it is” communication principles inside the country of operation.

 

Generic Job Accountabilities

This job description provides a framework for the main responsibilities and primary activities of the position, it is not all-encompassing. Therefore, the responsibilities and activities of the position may differ from those described in this job description due to organizational and operational needs.

 

• Defines and reviews the communications strategy for the country of operation advises on positioning and remains reactive to emergencies and crisis communications, including messages and tools.
• Promotes actively the visibility of the organisation, improving awareness of its principles and work, reinforcing information on MSF activities among communities
• Promotes and assists in the implementation of communication activities locally, nationally and internationally
• Identifies key cross cutting issues across MSF operations which are relevant to communications and advises on public positioning
• Develops guidelines and provides guidance on how to deal with local media at time of crisis
• Maintains and develops a network with key local media, international media, other IOs/NGOs, local communities and other actors, in order to facilitate better access for MSF teams to the target populations
• Briefs spokespersons and assesses media training needs for key staff, and organizes discussions, training activities and briefings on communication topics, in order to raise awareness of these mat-ters among mission staff. Fulfils the role of a spokesperson when seen as opportune and necessary
• Produces strategic reports on the local and social media landscape and regularly reports on new developments
• Implements Human Resources-policy regarding needs, performance, absence and mobility for the communication team and ensures that MSF acts as a responsible employer in terms of working conditions and reduction of security and health risks
• Manages, coaches and develops his/her direct reports (National Information Officer and National Communications Assistant)

 

Candidate profile

·         Previous working experience of at least four years in communications or journalism

·         One year of experience in developing countries and/or unstable contexts

·         Degree in Journalism, Communications, Humanitarian affairs, Political Sciences or related university degree

·         Previous working experience in producing communications content

·         Experience with MSF or other international NGOs in developing countries

·         Experience working in an international environment

·         Social media knowledge and skills (including community management)

·         Self-driven with the ability to take initiative

·         People management skills

·         A flexible approach

·         Able to cope with high levels of stress/able to work in stressful environments

·         Strong team player

·         Negotiation skills and a diplomatic approach

·         Basic audiovisual skills (photo, video, editing)

·         Knowledge in digital media

·         Proficiency in both English and one of the following languages: French, Arabic or Spanish

·         Willingness to work in unstable and insecure environments

·         Availability of at least 12 months and to work in the field

·         The post holder should display personal commitment and have respect for professional ethics, humanistic ideals, human rights and basic knowledge of humanitarian international law as well as a general attitude characterized by neutrality, impartiality and non-discrimination

 

Strong Assets

·         Degree in Journalism, Communications, Humanitarian Affairs, Political Sciences or related subject

·         Fluency in written and spoken French/Arabic/Swahili, Russian/Spanish – fluency in additional languages is highly desirable.

·         Proficient audio-visual skills

 

Information and Application

If you recognise yourself in this profile and meet the requirements, we encourage you to apply directly via the Apply button on this page and upload the following documents:

• Your most recent CV (in English) not exceeding 3 pages
• A cover letter explaining your motivation to work with MSF

 

Female candidates who meet the requirements are strongly encouraged to apply.

 

If you are interested and would like to have additional information, please contact Recruitment, recruitment@amsterdam.msf.org.