Head, Communications Department Full Time NEW

The National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE), re-established by proclamation No. 1133/2011, is the constitutionally mandated body to conduct elections, organize referendum and regulate political parties in Ethiopia. NEBE is working to boost its’ institutional strength with a special focus on enhancement of human resource capacity. Accordingly, NEBE would like to invite applicants for Head, Communication Department position who meets the following requirements.

The Head, Communications Department of the NEBE holds a pivotal role in the effective functioning and reputation of the organization. As the primary conduit of information, this department plays a crucial role in building public trust, disseminating accurate information, and promoting transparency throughout the electoral process.

By harnessing the power of effective communication, the Communications Department serves as a vital link between the NEBE, the public, stakeholders, and the media.

Duties and responsibilities

Communications

• Foster transparency by supplying comprehensive information about NEBE’s activities and operations, and make relevant documents and resources accessible to the public.
• Enhance information satisfaction by generating and disseminating dependable, lucid, easily accessible and consistent contents.
• Enhance internal communication through diverse strategies to bolster institutional integrity, ensuring that all internal staff have a profound comprehension of NEBE’s principles and responsibilities in a way that will manifest in the staff’s representation of NEBE in all contexts, ultimately elevating institutional awareness and productivity.
• Enhance NEBE’s public image and reputation.
• Responding to inquiries and addressing concerns promptly and professionally.

Media Relations

• Establishing and maintaining positive relationships with journalists and media outlets.
• Preparing press releases and media statements on election-related matters.
• Organizing press conferences and media briefings.
• Ensure NEBE events and initiatives receive high media coverage.

Public Relations

• Engaging with the public through various communication channels, including social media.
• Developing public awareness initiatives and educational materials.
• Creating and implementing public relations campaigns to promote voter participation.

Internal Communication

• Facilitating the exchange of information among departments and employees.
• Ensuring consistent communication and alignment of goals across the organization.

Crisis Communication

• Establish protocols for handling communication during crises or sensitive situations.
• Designate key spokespersons responsible for addressing the media and the public during emergencies.

Digital Communication and social media

• Maintaining an official website with up-to-date information.
• Engaging with the public through social media platforms and administer the social media.
• Monitoring and responding to online feedback and comments and the media in general.

Branding and Visual Identity

• Define and enforce NEBE’s branding guidelines for a consistent visual identity in all communication materials.
• Ensure that all communication materials reflect NEBE’s values and objectives.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

• Ensure accessible communication for all segments of the population, including persons with disabilities and different speakers.

Training and Professional Development

• Provide training and guidance on effective communication and alignment of goals across the organization.
• Ensure that communication department staff receive appropriate training and opportunities for professional development.

Ethical Guidelines

• Adhere and reinforce ethical principles, such as impartiality, neutrality, accuracy, transparency, and confidentiality, in all communication activities.

Partnerships and Collaboration

• Collaborate with other departments and external stakeholders to enhance communication effectiveness.

Required number: One

Reports to:Chairperson, National Elections Board of Ethiopia (NEBE)

Duration: Permanent

Salary: As per the organization salary scale (Competitive)

Education and Work Experience:

• MA degree or PHD in Communications, Journalism or other Social Science field.
• 10 years for Masters or 8 years for PHD (4 years in leadership position)

Knowledge and Skills

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven track record of successful media management and crisis communication.
• Strong leadership abilities with experience in team management and development.
• Proficiency in digital communication tools and social media platforms.
• Knowledge of accessible communication practices and inclusivity principles.
• Ethical mindset with a commitment to transparency and integrity in communication activities.
• Strategic management skills,
• Fluency in English and Amharic required (written and spoken),

Behavioural competencies:

• Adaptability/ flexibility,
• Willingness to adhere to all principles of confidentiality and impartiality,
• Data protection/Sensitivity,
• Persistence/Endurance,
• Maintaining organizational etiquette, Integrity and Honesty,
• Operating in a collaborative and cooperative environment,
• Ability to thrive in a fast-moving environment, with an emphasis on high performance, teamwork, accountability and results,
• Showing initiative, good judgment, and resourcefulness.