Organizational Context

This role will enhance the IFRC’s capabilities to tackle misinformation and disinformation in ways that upholds its mission and values. By building informed, resilient communities, promoting clear and ethical communication, and building trust, the IFRC can better manage misinformation risks and continue its humanitarian work effectively.

Job Purpose

Desired outcomes

Under the direct supervision and guidance of the Director of the Department of Communications, the consultant will be responsible for the following:

• Sets up and supports the director in managing an IFRC coordination mechanism to align the IFRC network’s misinformation communications efforts.
• Establishes a strategic and coordinated approach to addressing misinformation within the IFRC Secretariat and its network.
• Strengthens knowledge and practices within the IFRC network on misinformation.
• Identifies and compiles existing tools and research on misinformation and disinformation within the humanitarian sector.
• Identifies the approach of National Societies to responding to misinformation and disinformation by compiling methods, tools and best practices from within the IFRC network. Supports the convening of experts and relevant colleagues across the IFRC network working in the field of misinformation to inform IFRC’s work on misinformation.
• Prepares presentations on IFRC’s misinformation activities as required and serves as the focal point for preparation of materials, including talking points, for briefings, interviews, seminars, lectures, conferences, and public events related to misinformation as requested.
• Contributes to monitoring of results and impact of misinformation communications activities.
• Builds information networks; plans and oversees maintenance of accessible information materials on the IFRC misinformation communications work; and plans and develops outreach activities as needed.
• Works in close cooperation with focal points on misinformation across the IFRC network on developing misinformation communications materials and activities.
• Establishes and maintains relations with non-governmental organizations, businesses, academia and other areas of civil society working in the field of misinformation.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

Deliverables

A concept note outlining the goals, objectives, and strategic direction for the IFRC on misinformation.

• A framework outlining roles, responsibilities, workflows, and communication protocols for misinformation efforts across IFRC regions and departments.
• A list of potential partners, academic, organisations that work in the field of misinformation.
• Reports summarizing new and relevant research, tools, trends, and case studies on misinformation affecting the IFRC network that may affect humanitarian operations, public perception, or donor trust.
• Reports from IFRC regional offices on misinformation trends, developments, and attitudes regarding the IFRC network.
• Identification of the type of misinformation affecting IFRC and ways to address it, and development of relevant guidance for National Societies.

Job Duties and Responsibilities (continued)

• Establishment and roll out of a monitoring and evaluation system for tracking misinformation.
• Organisation of virtual or in-person events bringing together internal and external misinformation experts, IFRC regional representatives, and other relevant colleagues to discuss emerging trends, share best practices, and identify collaborative strategies.

Education

• University degree in journalism, communications or other relevant area.

Experience

Required

• Minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in communications, journalism, data science and/or analysis, international relations, public administration or related area..
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in addressing misinformation and disinformation, using a variety of digital paid and open source tools.
• Experience in researching, analysing, and monitoring media trends and reporting is required.
• Experience working in strategic communications is desirable.

Knowledge, Skills and Languages

• Demonstrated ability to draft content in English in a clear and concise manner.
• Ability to conceptualize, design and implement major communications campaigns.
• Ability to research, rapidly analyze and integrate diverse information from varied sources.
• Ability to produce various written communications products in a clear, concise style.
• Ability to deliver oral presentations to various audiences.

Competencies, Values and Comments

Values: Respect for diversity; Integrity; Professionalism; Accountability
Core competencies: Communication; Collaboration and teamwork; Judgement and decision making; National society and customer relations; Creativity and innovation; Building trust