Vacancy for the position of Communication and Publications Coordinator

07 Dec, 2015,

Job Title: Coordinator, Communications and Publications Unit

Reports to: Director, Makerere Institute of Social Research

Location: Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda

Job Summary:

The Communications and Publications Coordinator will direct Makerere Institute of Social Research’s overall communications strategy, with the goal of increasing the visibility, accessibility, understanding, and reach of the institution, our work and activities. She/he will play a central role in advancing Makerere Institute of Social Research’s mission by spearheading communications efforts that better enable us to engage with our existing networks and create bridges to new partners.

Specific Responsibilities:

1. Communication:

  • Develop and implement Makerere Institute of Social Research, Makerere University communication strategy;
  • Document and coordinate dissemination (through conventional and new media) of user-friendly project information, success stories, photographs, and achievements to relevant stakeholders;
  • Support with drafting key institutional documents;
  • Interface with Makerere Institute of Social Research’s team regarding technical aspects of communications-related projects, including; coordinating website design and functionality updates, overseeing email distribution list upgrades, guiding content management system use and training, developing in-house contact management tools, managing communications data; and, other technology related issues;  
  • Monitoring usage of the Institute’s website using a web analytics tool powered by google;
  • Ensure high quality program communication (including but not limited to reports, newsletters, brochures, flyers, ads, promotional videos, videos, slideshows) and multi-media materials to support MISR’s internal and external communication efforts;
  • Work with MISR’s management to ensure that all Institute staff are familiar with the Institute’s communications manual and processes
  • Work closely with MISR’s stakeholders to develop accurate, creative story ideas for a variety of media and for visibility materials;
  • Manage social media platforms and keep them updated;
  • Create an interactive internal portal to increase interactions between research fellows, PhD fellows and MISR affiliates;
  • Media publicity of Makerere Institute of Social Research events;
  • Find new and innovative avenues to communicate Makererere Institute of Social Research messages.

2. Publications:

  • Managing the print production of an array of research and institutional materials, as well as the design and content of MISR’s brochures, letterheads, banners, and fundraising materials;
  • Oversee editing, formatting, creative design, and printing of MISR’s publications and visibility materials;
  • Compile and disseminate Makerere Institute of Social Research manual of style
  • Ensure proper branding and marking of MISR’s programs, materials and activities;
  • Showcase/marketing of Makerere Institute of Social Research publications at policy forums, exhibitions, conferences, seminars, bookshops, etc.;
  • In particular, oversee and ensure the publication of Annual Reports, Policy Briefs, Working Papers and all textual material;
  • Maintain records of all MISR publications received, sold or distributed to MISR guests

3. Coordination:

  • Support public events management, media coverage and stakeholder engagement;
  • Liaise with visiting academics in advance to ensure that they send through papers to be presented or discussed for dissemination prior to events, such as seminars, discussions, workshops.

 4. Administrative:

  • Development of the Communications and Publications Unit budget;
  • any other duties as assigned by the Administrator or Director.

Qualifications and Responsibilities:

  • Degree (preferably advanced degree) in mass communication, public relations, journalism, or related field;
  • Outstanding command of English Language;
  • Proven writing (non-technical) and editing skills;
  • Five (5) years communication/publications experience, preferably in an academic  institution/knowledge centre or development field;
  • Develop communications plans to synchronize with organizational goals in fundraising and development, government and corporate relations;
  • Develop a communications network to formulate and promote a narrative of the organization’s work;
  • Understand conventional and new communications channels, including electronic, print, and social media;
  • Strong computer, graphic design, organizational, analytical and assessment skills;
  • Ability to develop and maintain relationships with audiences important to Makerere Institute of Social Research, including Makerere University academic staff, media,  donors and prospective donors, and corporate leaders
  • Ability to represent the organization effectively to external audiences including donors, corporate and foundation executives, business and government organizations and other collaborating agencies;
  • Ability to work with minimal supervision and to meet deadlines under pressure.
     

How to Apply:

All suitably qualified and interested candidates are encouraged to send their applications to this address;

The Director, Makerere Institute of Social Research, Makerere University, Wandegeya Kampala, P.O. Box 16022, Kampala, Uganda

E-mail to: director@misr.mak.ac.ug

Deadline: 20th December 2015