Organization overview
Tostan is a Senegalese-born nonprofit organization currently operating in six African countries. Our vision is human dignity for all. Our mission is to empower African communities to bring about sustainable development and positive social transformation based on respect for human rights. In addition to our Community Empowerment Program, we implement other projects such Reinforcement of Parental Practices, the Prison Project, Child Protection, the Fistula Project and the Peace & Security Project. Tostan’s core values include the following: communities’ first, learning and innovation, partnership and dialogue, passion and pride in our work, respect, and humility toward others. Tostan Canada and Tostan Sweden are affiliates. This vibrant organization is rapidly scaling its successful model across Africa. For more information, please visit: www.tostan.org.
Department overview
The function of the International Communications department is both service-orientated and consultative. We are responsible for promoting and raising awareness of Tostan’s work internationally and supporting the work of the six countries in which Tostan implements our program together with building the communications capacities of those countries. Our functions include PR and External Relations, Design and Media, Translation, Communications Services and Support to all Tostan staff and Board, and Communications Research and M&E.
The Headquarters of Tostan are in Dakar, Senegal and the communications function is run from there, with some team members also based in our office in Washington DC. This role is based in the Dakar office.
Roles & Responsibilities
- Media relations, drafting press releases and keeping press list up to date
- Developing network of professional relationships with International media
- Implementation of communications campaigns and projects
- Developing articles, portraits, news , fact sheets and other communications collateral
- Developing and delivering content for Tostan’s social media channels
- Monitoring media relations and reporting on statistics and coverage
- Keeping up to date on news and real-time opportunities
- Regular research into external relations best practices and trends in international development communications
- Representing Tostan at important events/meetings
- Managing relationship with researchers, students, universities who invite Tostan
- Any other projects and tasks deemed necessary by the Communications Director
Qualifications and Selection Criteria
Knowledge & Experience
- Relevant undergraduate degree is required. A postgraduate degree is preferred.
- 3-5 years communications experience with a focus on international public relations
- Experience drafting communications materials including press releases, articles and reports
- Experience working in the international development sector
- Experience working in Senegal or another African country is preferred.
Language
· This position requires excellent English and French. Wolof would be an advantage.
Characteristics
- A commitment to international development and Tostan’s work in Africa
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Excellent relationship management skills and experience in building relationships with the press
- Excellent command of the English language and good command of French
- Willingness to work in a fast-paced and challenging environment
- Ability to work under pressure and meet multiple quick deadlines
- Excellent attention to detail
- Enjoys working in a multilingual, multicultural environment.
How to apply:
Please email resume and thoughtful cover letter, outlining how your skills and experience meet the qualifications of the position, to hr@tostan.org with "Media & Public Relations Manager" in the Subject Line. The deadline to apply is November 10, 2014. Please be prepared to submit references should you be contacted for an interview. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Tostan is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate all candidates without consideration of race, religion, age, sex, origin, nationality, handicap or other criteria made illegal by applicable laws.
