The African Network of Constitutional Lawyers (ANCL) seeks the services of a communications officer to support its marketing and visibility strategy activities.
The ANCL is an association of judges, lawyers, academics, activists, NGOs, research or academic institutes and bar associations that are interested in constitutional law and the development of constitutionalism in African countries. The ANCL aims to create a strong community of research institutes, bar associations, law societies, regional and sub-regional associations, NGOs and individuals concerned with defending democracy and human rights.
Location: Virtual
Designation: Part-time (24 hours per week)
Duration: 6 months renewable subject to the availability of funds.
It specifically aims to amongst others:
- Act as a forum for the exchange of information and ideas between members of the ANCL and between the ANCL and other partner organisations with a view to improving the understanding of African constitutional systems.
- Promote human and peoples’ rights on the continent including civil, political, economic, social, cultural rights; and
- Develop a constitutional and democratic conscience on the continent.
Responsibilities
Reporting to the Secretary General, the responsibilities of the officer will include:
- Developing a communication and branding plan to support in the implementation of strategic communication activities by the Network.
- Supporting the development of multimedia communications products as well as digital and social media products and activities.
- Coordinating the maintenance of the ANCL website and social media accounts.
- Drafting high-quality print and digital communication products.
- Monitoring and analyzing current events, public opinion and press coverage in the region, identifying issues and trends, to advise on appropriate action/responses to be taken by ANCL.
- Conducting media outreach, including development of media strategies and action plans, initiating pro-active media outreach efforts.
- Initiating and sustaining proactive professional relationships with key constituencies and partners at the national and regional level and undertaking joint strategic activities with them where relevant.
- Planning and facilitating dialogues with partners to improve public engagement and participatory approaches to increase understanding of the ANCL’s work on the continent.
- Performs other functions and special duties as required by the Executive Committee of the ANCL.
Competencies
- Demonstrated knowledge of communications techniques, including audience-focused strategic communications.
- Ability to update the ANCL website, post on Facebook, Twitter and creat and mange an ANCL LinkedIn pag or others
- Ability to advise on communications challenges, assess communications environments, develop communications strategies, and manage implementation of communications campaigns with various promotional techniques.
- Demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter and is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results.
- Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.
- Ability to communicate clearly and effectively in English. Knowledge of French and Portuguese would be an added advantage.
- Allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning.
- Monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary and uses time efficiently.
Education
- Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in communications, journalism, public information or a related field is required.
- A first-level degree (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent) in the specified fields of studies with two additional years of relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.
Work Experience
- A minimum of three years of progressively responsible communications experience, including experience in engaging with the media, non-governmental organizations, governmental officials, international and national organizations, business groups, civil society, etc. in Africa is required.
- Experience in strategic communications, and/or developing and implementing multimedia communications campaigns is required.
- Experience in journalism is desirable.
Application Process
Interested candidates are invited to submit a cover letter and resume to