Job Description
THE POSITION
The Senior Communications Officer supports the communication of the department’s work, particularly its evaluations, by developing and distributing a range of communication products.
The primary objective of this role is to contribute to the division’s work program by producing communication materials related to IDEV’s work and evaluations; disseminating knowledge and communication outputs; and supporting events led by IDEV. The Senior Communications Officer also provides guidance to junior consultants and the division team assistant when needed.
KEY FUNCTIONS
Corporate communications
- Plan and lead both internal and external communication initiatives to raise awareness of evaluation activities and enhance the visibility of IDEV and the broader evaluation field.
- Collaborate in the development and implementation of knowledge management and communication strategies and action plans targeting internal Bank audiences and the public.
- Produce and share diverse communication materials on IDEV’s work, including stories, news articles, publicity materials, briefings, media kits, advisories, press releases, speeches, fact sheets, videos, podcasts, animations, and event summaries. These outputs should align with AfDB guidelines and be suitable for platforms such as intranet, website, blogs, e-newsletters, and other media.
- Participate in the planning of in-person and virtual knowledge-sharing activities—such as webinars, trainings, and conferences—to ensure appropriate communication support before, during, and after events.
- Design and implement communication campaigns.
- Strengthen internal capacity for communication, knowledge sharing, and outreach.
- Promote awareness of effective communication approaches and best practices.
- Identify potential reputational risks and propose mitigation measures.
- Suggest new activities for inclusion in IDEV’s multi-year work program.
- Contribute to annual reporting on communications activities.
Evaluation-specific communications
- In coordination with knowledge management and evaluation task managers, carry out communication tasks—including social media engagement—to disseminate evaluation outcomes and messages to targeted audiences.
- Contribute to the planning and execution of stakeholder engagement and dissemination strategies for each evaluation to ensure timely and effective communication.
- Prepare diverse communication products summarizing key findings, lessons, and recommendations from evaluations. Outputs may include stories, news, briefings, infographics, audiovisual materials, and content for the website, e-newsletters, intranet, and social media.
- Ensure all content is of high quality and tailored to the needs of specific audiences, including Bank staff and management, authorities and beneficiaries in member countries, development partners, academia, the media, and more.
- Distribute knowledge and communications outputs through the most effective channels, including print and electronic media, direct mailing, event displays, the IDEV website, and social media platforms.
Branding and style
- Collaborate with knowledge management and evaluation task managers to ensure consistency in the branding and presentation of IDEV products, including reports, communications materials, and promotional items.
- Assist colleagues by reviewing documents and other materials to ensure adherence to IDEV guidelines.
- Provide communication support to IDEV staff as appropriate.
Communication tools and processes
- Maintain and enhance IDEV’s communication and dissemination channels.
- Manage the IDEV website, e-newsletters, and bulk mailing tools.
- Expand and manage IDEV’s presence on social media platforms such as X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn, and develop strategies for audience engagement.
- Stay informed on emerging social media tools and communication best practices. Explore new ways to meet IDEV’s communication goals and initiate innovative advocacy and outreach content.
- Build and maintain collaborative relationships with other Bank departments, external stakeholders, and clients to maximize the reach of IDEV’s knowledge products.
- Foster connections with communication and evaluation units in other organizations to share lessons learned and good practices.
- Perform other relevant duties as required.
COMPETENCIES (Skills, Experience, and Knowledge)
- Advanced degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Social Sciences, or related field.
- Extensive experience in communicating about international development, ideally within NGOs, development organizations, financial institutions, or government entities.
- Proven background in knowledge management and dissemination of knowledge products.
- Skilled in the conceptualization, design, and delivery of content tailored for diverse audiences and adept in various communication channels.
- Familiarity with the production of diverse communication formats, including publications, websites, blogs, and digital campaigns.
- Strong writing abilities supported by samples or a portfolio.
- Excellent interpersonal and collaborative skills.
- Demonstrates initiative, creativity, and adaptability.
- Professionalism, integrity, and problem-solving orientation.
- Effective under pressure and able to manage competing priorities.
- Attention to detail while maintaining a broad perspective.
- Understanding of IDEV’s and the Bank’s mandates, priorities, policies, and operations.
- Capable of project planning and oversight, offering expert advice to project teams.
- Knowledge of communication trends, tools, and best practices.
- Skilled in synthesizing and presenting complex information clearly and accessibly.
- Able to tailor information for different audiences and channels.
- Exceptional storytelling and content creation abilities to promote IDEV’s work.
- Strong analytical, advocacy, and negotiation skills.
- Proficiency with design and publishing tools such as Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop; familiarity with HTML and email design is an asset.
- Experienced in using a variety of communication platforms, including social media.
- Skilled in crafting press releases, media advisories, and content suited to journalistic standards.
- Adept at identifying opportunities and building productive relationships.
- Excellent verbal and written communication in English or French, with working proficiency in the other language strongly preferred.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and content management systems such as Drupal, Typo3, or WordPress.
Deadline: 29-May-2025
