Position Announcement DIRECTOR, COMMUNICATIONS ETHIOPIAN AGRICULTURAL TRANSFORMATION AGENCY
The Agricultural Transformation Agency (ATA) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia is seeking a qualified candidate to serve as Director of Communications.
BACKGROUND:
The Ethiopian Agricultural Transformation Agency (ATA) is an initiative of the Government of Ethiopia (GOE) which was established by federal regulation in January 2011. The primary aim of the Agency is to promote agricultural sector transformation by enhancing and supporting existing structures of government, private-sector and other non-governmental partners to address systemic bottlenecks in the system and deliver on a priority national agenda to achieve growth and food security.
The ATA focuses on a set of high priority program areas. These program areas are sub-divided into Systems, Value Chains, and Initiatives. Across these, the ATA engages public, private and non-governmental stakeholders to support strategic planning, manage and strengthen implementation capacity, and test innovative models. Its structure and function is focused on innovative and results-oriented support to partners in the agricultural sector. It is financed by GOE and a range of development partners.
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Communications Director is a management position within the ATA Office of the Chief Executive Officer. The Director has responsibility for review and successful implementation of the ATA Communications Strategy and management of the Communications Team.
The Communications Director will work across all areas of the organization as a communications generalist, and will be involved in shaping both the internal and external communications programs of the ATA. S/he will also provide operational support and assistance to ATA program/project teams. The successful applicant will have a passion for strategy coupled with the entrepreneurism and pragmatism to execute at a tactical level. S/he should also demonstrate a genuine commitment to developing a team and assisting the organization with its progressive transformation agenda.
This role presents a unique opportunity to work directly with the ATA Chief Executive Officer and mobilize stakeholders within an exciting national and international context. The position is based in Addis Ababa.
Job Requirement
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
Oversee review of and lead successful implementation of the ATA Communications Strategy.
Inspire a team of dedicated, specialist communications professionals including effectively managing workflow, building local capacity, and guiding professional development.
Improve the quality, consistency, timeliness and professionalism of all ATA communications.
Increase awareness of the role of communications within the organization through training, mentoring and contribution to the ATA’s professional development program.
Monitor, analyze and evaluate communications efforts and identify new communications approaches and opportunities.
Liaise closely with the Chief Executive Officer and collaborate with senior management in communicating key organizational messages and report on communications activities.
Collaborate with the ATA Partnerships and Government Relations Teams to engage key stakeholders (including the Government of Ethiopia, development partners, and the media).
Manage the administrative, financial, and human resources affairs of the Communications Team.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor/ Masters in communications, public relations, journalism, international relations, media relations or equivalent.
At least 8 years of relevant professional experience, preferably in a generalist corporate communications role with a national or international focus.
Self-motivated, team-player with proven ability to contribute to organizational success at a strategic level and project manage a team at an operational level in large, complex organizations.
First rate written and verbal communication skills.
Sophisticated stakeholder engagement skills with a proven track record dealing with government bodies, development agencies, media, and the general public.
Outstanding organization, time management, budgeting, and computer skills.
Strong professional commitment and orientation within the agriculture and/or development sector/s.
Fluency in written and spoken English. Proficiency with Amharic a plus, but not required.