Human Rights Watch (HRW) is seeking applicants for the position of Associate Communications Director, Africa. We’re looking for someone who’s passionate about getting human rights issues in Africa on to news agendas around the world and excited about working with journalists to tell stories that bring about positive change. You will be part of a global team planning the most effective way to raise awareness about human rights issues in more than 90 countries.

The Media Department, which includes the Communications, Digital, and Multimedia divisions, creates and implements communications strategies to expand support for human rights, increase media coverage and influence in key markets, and reach new audiences. The global Communications team, including the 24-hour global press desk, is responsible for setting strategy to earn media coverage of human rights stories around the world. This full-time position will be based in HRW’s Nairobi or Johannesburg office, though other locations in Africa will be considered. This position reports to the Communications Director based in New York, but works closely with staff based in Europe, and staff who work in the Africa, Digital, and Multimedia Divisions.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Develop overall strategy in getting HRW coverage for Africa-related work in the international, regional, and local media, as well as getting other HRW work placed in the African media;
2. Identify opportunities for advocacy and media outreach in Africa based on local programmatic interest and increase HRW’s advocacy;
3. Draft and edit press releases, op-eds and other materials;
4. Pitch HRW’s reports, op-eds, and other materials to key outlets in Central, East, Horn, Southern, and West Africa media as well as to foreign correspondents covering the region, in order to maximize coverage of HRW research on the African continent and in foreign media covering the continent;
5. Maintain a calendar of key advocacy and news pegs in Africa;
6. Draft social media language to promote Africa-related work;
7. Plan and host social media discussions on platforms such as IG Live, Twitter Spaces and others as needed;
8. Help develop Africa-focused ideas for HRW’s twice monthly podcast, Rights & Wrongs.
9. Ensure the outputs are delivered in a timely manner and are consistent with the agreed strategy and priorities of HRW;
10. Expand and strengthen HRW’s media networks in Central, East, Horn, Southern, and West Africa, through regular meetings with journalists, outreach trips, and regular phone and email contact;
11. Serve as thought partner and work with researchers to cultivate relationships with journalists and develop media strategy;
12. Organize news conferences, media interviews, and briefings for HRW staff;
13. Arrange media training opportunities for HRW staff;
14. Assist with media response during crises;
15. Operate in compliance with organizational regulations and rules, including the policies of applicable employee agreements; and
16. Carry out any other tasks as required.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education: A degree in journalism, English, communications, marketing, or a related field or equivalent training/experience is desirable.

Experience: A minimum of five to seven years of relevant experience working as a journalist in Africa or in close relation to the media is required.

Related Skills and Knowledge:

1. Exceptional oral and written communication skills in English is required. Proficiency in French, Swahili or another language is desirable.
2. Knowledge of media landscape across the continent is required.
3. Ability to identify and advise the Communications Director/Communications Division in developing and implementing advocacy strategies in order to seize advocacy opportunities is required.
4. Ability to effectively communicate important human rights developments and the work of HRW is required.
5. Strong initiative and follow through, the capacity to think creatively and strategically, excellent writing and editing skills, and a dynamic public speaking ability are required.
6. Strong interpersonal skills in order to work collaboratively within HRW, as well as with external partners, are required.
7. Ability to multi-task effectively, including having good planning and organizing skills and ability to work pressure are required.
8. Ability to make sound decisions consistent with functions is required.
9. Knowledge of and experience working in international human rights and familiarity with international human rights law is highly desirable.