Senior Strategic Communications and Advocacy Advisor
About Power Shift Africa
Power Shift Africa (PSA) is a Pan-African think tank providing cutting-edge analysis, solution-focused policy, and responsive media engagement from an African perspective, both within the continent and internationally. PSA’s mission is to mobilise climate action in Africa, catalyse and support impactful African networks and institutions, and amplify civil society and expert voices on the international stage. PSA’s workstream on climate adaptation and resilience has been underscored by strategic working collaboration with countries and stakeholders in the continent and internationally, to influence climate policy debates, elevate Africa’s voices, and contribute to strengthening adaptation and building resilience of communities affected by devastating effects of climate change.
About the Role
Kenya’s Office of the Special Envoy for Climate Change plays a critical role in enhancing Kenya and Africa’s leadership in delivering climate adaptation policies, building compelling narratives on climate adaptation, particularly for the agriculture sector, and unlocking investments for climate adaptation in Kenya and Africa. To complement and advance this agenda, PSA, with support from strategic partners, seeks to provide technical support to the office of Special Climate Envoy in Kenya.
Power Shift Africa is looking for a Senior Strategic Communications and Advocacy Advisor to lead the development and execution of high-level communication strategies and diplomatic efforts in support of the Office of the Climate Envoy for Kenya.
The successful candidate will be responsible for producing top-tier communication materials, including talking points, opinion pieces, and press statements, to effectively convey the work and impact of the Office. Serving as the primary liaison between the Office of the Climate Envoy and the media, the Senior Advisor will manage media relations, pitch stories to journalists, secure interviews, and handle media inquiries on behalf of the Envoy. The goal is to position communications as a crucial component in shaping the long-term strategy and impact of the Office's climate initiatives.
The Senior Advisor will also oversee the creation, packaging, and dissemination of multimedia content to advance a compelling climate narrative for Kenya and Africa. This will involve driving and sustaining partnerships and collaborations with like-minded institutions to further the goals of the Nairobi Declaration.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Communications Planning and Execution
Design and implement the overarching strategic communications plan for the Office of the Climate Envoy.
Lead the development of the Office’s brand, storytelling, and narrative building across diverse media platforms.
Increase the visibility of the Office of the Climate Envoy and its partners through targeted communications and media support.
2. Content Development and Quality Control
Develop and disseminate a range of communications materials, including blog posts, social media content, high-level opinion pieces, and videos, tailored for diverse audiences and channels.
Draft talking points for the Climate Envoy's key speaking engagements, including summits and briefings.
Ensure all communication products meet quality standards by applying appropriate formats and branding.
3. Media Relations and Audience Engagement
Maintain and nurture active relationships with climate journalists, editors, and influencers, regularly briefing them on the work of the Climate Envoy.
Map out African audiences, monitor media coverage, and provide metrics for reporting and future planning.
Develop stories and compelling narratives to shape public perceptions of climate change and the work of the Office.
4. Event Moderation and Partnership Building
Moderate events, high-level panels, and forums attended by the Climate Envoy.
Build and expand collaborations between the Office and other institutions such as civil society, academia, and development partners through strategic networking.
Oversee and manage all communication projects, including digital campaigns, led by the Office of the Climate Envoy.
5. Team Leadership and Mentorship
Mentor and support internal and external communications staff, fostering collaboration with experts from partner organizations at high-level events.
Conduct audience perception analyses to refine and enhance the Office’s communications strategy.
Desired Skills and Experience
Master’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field.
Minimum 10 years of experience as a senior editor or senior communications advisor in a dynamic environment.
Prior experience designing and implementing strategic communications for complex climate issues.
Thorough understanding of the climate discourse in Kenya and Africa, including regional priorities and opportunities.
Proven ability to manage high-level and complex relationships, including with partners to drive climate action.
Proficiency in climate communications, campaign management, and movement building.
Strong editorial skills with experience in creating compelling materials such as press releases, blogs, opinion pieces, and impactful speeches.
Cross-cultural competency with the ability to work effectively with diverse teams across Africa.
Experience in convening in-person meetings and virtual engagements (e.g., webinars) with various stakeholders.
Advanced knowledge of communication and editing tools, including Mailchimp, InDesign, and Adobe Premiere.
Sophisticated social media skills with a deep understanding of the digital landscape.
Prior work in the not-for-profit space is especially desirable
Language Competence
Fluency in spoken and written English is required; Proficiency in French will be an advantage
Additional Information about the role
The Senior Strategic Communications and Advocacy Advisor will be embedded within the office of Kenya's Climate Envoy for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability. The Advisor will report directly to Kenya's Climate Envoy and work closely with relevant ministries and agencies and regional institutions and stakeholders.
Candidates should have flexibility to travel globally and accompany the Climate Envoy during key missions.
This role will be based in Nairobi, Kenya, and the successful candidate must be eligible to work in Kenya. While preference will be given to Kenyan applicants, we are open to considering candidates from other African countries. PSA will, however, not facilitate work visas for such candidates.
Application Process
We encourage qualified candidates to apply. Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your interest, qualifications and vision for the position. Applications should be submitted to careers@powershiftafrica.org by 23rd August 2024 at 11:59 pm EAT.