Communications and Programme Officer Job Vacancy

Communications and Programme Officer

The African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP) is an international non-profit policy think tank whose mission is to translate and enable utilisation of evidence in policy-making, primarily in the fields of population change and sustainable development; and health systems strengthening in Africa. 

We work to bridge the gap between research, policy and practice by enabling use of research evidence in decision-making aimed at addressing various development challenges in Africa. 

With our Head Office in Nairobi-Kenya and a branch office in Lilongwe-Malawi, we are seeking a highly qualified and self-motivated individual to fill the position of Communications and Programme Officer based in our Malawi office.  

The role will lead AFIDEP’s communications and policy engagement activities at the Malawi office as well as support programme activities in Malawi and the Southern Africa region.

Main Responsibilities
  • Identify and facilitate AFIDEP's participation in important national and regional policy dialogue forums.
  • Expand AFIDEP's policy links and influence by establishing and maintaining relationships with relevant national 
policymakers and donors in Malawi and sub-regional bodies and networks in Southern Africa.
  • Develop and oversee the production of AFIDEP's policy-oriented publications, including Policy briefs, Research 
Briefs, Factsheets, and Development Perspectives.
  • Contribute to development and production of AFIDEP's institutional publications, including Brochures, 
Newsletters, Annual Reports.
  • Establish and sustain meaningful connections with relevant media actors and facilitate media coverage of AFIDEP’s research and programmes in Malawi and Southern Africa.
  • Contribute content for AFIDEP’s website and social media platforms.
  • Coordinate research, capacity building and advocacy programmes in Malawi.
  • Lead in planning and organising workshops, training and other events related to AFIDEP's programmes in Malawi.
Position Requirements
  • Masters’ degree either in communications, international relations, or related field.
  • Minimum of 2 years of relevant experience, preferably in a research setting in the areas of 
health, population, environment or development.
  • Excellent writing and communication skills in English (proficiency in French is desirable).
  • Experience in synthesis and translation of research findings, and in developing high impact policy briefs and web-based advocacy materials.
  • Experience in policy engagement and programme management.
  • Graphics and web design and management skills would be an added advantage.
  • Experience in project management including report writing, building and managing partnerships, and organisation of high-level forums.
  • Quantitative and qualitative analytical skills and experience in using relevant analytical 
software would be an added advantage.
This position will be for an initial period of 2 years, with possibility of extension.

A competitive remuneration package will be offered commensurate with qualifications and experience of the successful applicant. 

Applicants are required to send their 

(1) one-page cover letter, 

(2) CV - max 3 pages including three relevant referees and 

(3) one-page motivation statement detailing career goals and interests 

not later than March 4, 2016 to:

Finance and Administration Manager,
African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP),
Off Maula prison road- Area 6,
P.O. Box 31024,
Lilongwe 3.

Email: hr@afidep.org

Website: www.afidep.org