Country: Switzerland
Closing date: 31 Jul 2016
Purpose of the post
The overall aim of the COM_PR unit is to maximize the acceptance of the ICRC's mission and activities and to strengthen its reputation as a recognized authority on IHL and humanitarian action. The unit helps build trust and secure support for the ICRC among a broad range of stakeholders through public communication. It coordinates the ICRC’s relations with media outlets with an international reach.
As PRO for campaigns and policy, the post holder works to make ICRC positions on priority thematic issues such as IHL and migration, better known and accessible to a wider audience. S/he seeks out opportunities to drive engagement and visibility around these issues by developing and implementing integrated media and digital communication plans, in close liaison with the Digital Unit. S/he provides communication support to the Policy Unit, including the definition and promotion of messages.
Main duties and responsibilities
Based in Geneva, the PRO for campaigns and policy reports to the Head of PR. S/he:
Leads the development and implementation of creative communication strategies and plans of action on ICRC’s priority themes, working in project manager mode with other communications colleagues.
Leads PR’s work on thematic communication plans targeting the general public, developing and promoting powerful public messages. Creates communication tools and products to promote thematic issues, commissioning material from field delegations and creative agencies for use by media and on ICRC’s digital platforms.
Acts as a spokesperson on related issues when required, managing media enquiries. Sets up media opportunities for specialist staff members, including the director of international law and policy, in liaison with global reach delegations.
Conducts outreach with media and other influencers (vloggers, blogs, journals…) to generate interest, support and coverage of the issues.
Acts as PR focal point for relevant thematic file holders in the ICRC; builds an excellent internal network with relevant units, participates in related working groups and advises on communication issues, opportunities and challenges.
Leads planning, content development and media work for ICRC’s noteworthy dates (relevant to the thematic areas covered).
Drafts a range of public communication material on thematic issues, for placement externally and on ICRC platforms and to provide information to media.
Works closely with other communication colleagues in terms of monitoring and evaluation impact, and generating ideas and content for thematic campaigns.
Acts as a reference spokesperson during duty weekends; supports other PR staff members in crisis situations and as required.
Education and experience required
University degree in a communications or related field.
Good knowledge of issues related to conflicts, IHL and humanitarian action.
Extensive track record in communications within the humanitarian or non-profit sector.
Substantial experience of drafting compelling public communication material for different audiences.
Track record of successful public relations management.
Experience with the ICRC and/or RC/RC Movement an asset.
Desired profile and skills
Confirmed experience in developing and implementing communication strategies.
Great all-round communicator, with sound digital and media relations skills.
Able to produce clean and informative prose in a variety of styles for different audiences. Excellent oral and written communication skills.
High degree of organization, strong priority-setting skills and ability to work on tight deadlines.
Able to master complex topics quickly and translate them into simple language and powerful messages
Personal Skills
Proven capacity to work in a team.
High degree of creativity. Able to work autonomously and independently.
Able to build constructive relationships with technical file holders.
A good sense of diplomacy and sound negotiation skills
Excellent interpersonal skills and a good sense of humour.
English and French (required), other languages an asset.
How to apply:
Application documents required: Motivation letter and CV
Interested persons fulfilling the above criteria should send their applications by July 31, 2016 (letter of motivation and CV/resume) to the following address: application_hq@icrc.org. In the subject line of your email, please put: ‘’CIM_COM_PR – Public Relations Officer”.
Only applications sent to this email address will be considered. If you do not receive a reply within one month, then please assume that your application has not been shortlisted.