Press Officer
Rationale/Objective for
this Position
- The Press Officer assists the Media Manager with defining the
media strategy for MSF Eastern Africa and its implementation, with an
overall aim of and implementing press relations and activities in order to
increase MSF’s presence in Kenyan and East African media, working to
establish MSF as a referent on international humanitarian crises and
topics.
Tasks & Responsibilities
Media Management
- Establishes and fosters strong relationships with
journalists, editors and producers within print, radio, TV and online
media in Kenya and East Africa in order to expand media outreach. Updates
the media contacts list on a rolling basis.
- Proactively pitches stories and contents that help to
increase the visibility of MSF in Kenya and East Africa. Proposes,
organizes and facilitates interviews, articles, press conferences and
briefings with journalists.
- Distributes press releases and other information and
materials to the media in coordination and conjunction with MSF’s
international communications network and adapts them, when necessary, to
the specificities of the Kenyan and East African contexts.
- Identifies, develops and implements ideas and opportunities
for feature articles and interviews in external media that promote
awareness of MSF, its international fieldwork and advocacy efforts.
- Coordinates and manages press requests, connecting media with
MSF spokespeople, experts and field representatives when necessary. Acts
as the first point of contact for institutional media enquiries from
Kenyan media, in close collaboration with communications colleagues in the
country.
- Monitors MSF mentions in the press, as well as other stories
of interest to the organisation, producing regular reports of media
narratives and trends. Analyzes trends and priority issues in the media
agenda, identifying communication opportunities, risks, and advising on
strategies.
- Takes part in an on-call system to respond to media requests
out of hours.
Collaborations
- Supports other departments in the NBO, such as the East
Africa Association in developing and implementing communication and
dissemination strategies to achieve their specific objectives, providing
the necessary validated operational information and ensuring the quality
and consistency of the outputs.
- When requested, gives support to Kenya and East Africa
operational missions through proactive dissemination and pitching of their
communications packages and materials.
- Works closely with other members of the communications
department to ensure an integrated and coherent approach to the NBO’s
public communication and positioning.
- Maintains regular contact with MSF communications colleagues
at a local, regional and international level, in order to share
information and best practice, ensure coordination and identify
opportunities.
- Is available to act as Emergency Press Officer, and travel to
the field in case of major field emergencies, during a crisis, to support
journalist visits or to produce content.
Administration and training
- Uploads content on the MSF EA website and digital platforms
as needed.
- Provides media training and coaching on public speaking to
MSF spokespeople, including staff and field workers.
- Assists with quarterly and annual reporting as needed.
- Upholds MSF principles and ethical guidelines at all times.
Qualifications
- Degree in journalism, communications or relevant field
related to MSF´s subject area.
- Experience in journalism or press relations.
- Excellent writing, editing and communications skills in
English, with another regional language an advantage.
- Knowledge of the Kenyan and East African media.
- Previous work experience with MSF or a similar medical or
humanitarian organisation is highly desirable.
- Commitment to MSF’s humanitarian principles and ethical
approach.
- Experience of working in a dynamic, fast paced, multicultural
environment with a focus on results.
- Ability to plan and organise, as well as to be flexible to
emerging events and to seize opportunities.
- Good team working and networking skills.
Application deadline: 9th July 2023
How to Apply
