Senior Communication Specialist (PEPFAR) at Embassy of The United States 2023

Duties

Under the direct supervision of the PEPFAR Kenya Country Coordinator, the Senior Communications Specialist- will develop and implement a comprehensive communications and media relations program for the PEPFAR Kenya program to promote public understanding of U.S. government health programs and accomplishments. As the lead communications officer for the PEPFAR program and PEPFAR Coordination office, the incumbent plans and coordinates the dissemination of health information relating to PEPFAR programs, objectives, achievements, activities, and functions to internal U.S. government audiences, and the public.

This position leads and directs the development and implementation of a comprehensive communication and marketing program, including the establishing of goals and objectives, instituting policies, programs, and activities and ensuring integration with other research, surveillance, and prevention activities.  Provides coordination and quality assurance for all communication and marketing activities, assures the health information is accurately and appropriately represented to diverse constituencies; applies communication and marketing solutions for complex and controversial problems; and participates in internal and external government venues requiring knowledge and understanding of PEPFAR’s communication and marketing and applicable programmatic activities, goals and objectives.

Requirements:

EXPERIENCE:

• Five years of media or public relations experience is required. International media experience a plus. Extensive existing contacts among both key Kenyan and Kenya-based international media outlets/reporters.
• Proven ability to write a high-quality, media-friendly press releases, media advisories, and other materials for public use.
• Application package must include professional references and published news releases.

JOB KNOWLEDGE:

• Comprehensive understanding of overall communications principles, guidelines and procedures related to the management of public relations is required. Working knowledge of U.S. governmental protocols, procedures and public relations strategies. Working knowledge of the structure and functions of the Agency’s role and function in support of the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) is required. The job holder must also have a working knowledge of Kenya’s health programs. Must have demonstrated in-depth understanding of computerized writing and graphics programs such as Microsoft Publisher. Mastery of grammar, style, and layout, and ability to adapt style, manner of presentations, and format to the requirements of the audience
• Comprehensive understanding of overall communications principles, guidelines and procedures related to the management of public relations is required. Working knowledge of U.S. governmental protocols, procedures and public relations strategies. Working knowledge of the structure and functions of the Agency’s role and function in support of the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) is required. The job holder must also have a working knowledge of Kenya’s health programs. Must have demonstrated in-depth understanding of computerized writing and graphics programs such as Microsoft Publisher. Mastery of grammar, style, and layout, and ability to adapt style, manner of presentations, and format to the requirements of the audience

Education Requirements:

• Master’s degree in communications, journalism, or marketing is required