Director -Communications, External Relations and Advocacy

About MSI Ethiopia Reproductive Choices

MSI Ethiopia Reproductive Choices is a leading provider of sexual and reproductive health services in Ethiopia, delivering quality, client-centered care through static clinics, outreach programs, social marketing, and public-sector partnerships. We are committed to ensuring that every individual can exercise their reproductive rights and access high-quality services.

We are seeking a highly qualified and strategic professional to join our leadership team as Director – Communications, External Relations and Advocacy.

The Position

Reporting to the Country Director,  Communications, External Relations and Advocacy Director will lead MSI Ethiopia’s communications, advocacy, media engagement, and external relations functions. The role will be responsible for strengthening the organization’s visibility, influence, partnerships, and reputation while advancing policy and advocacy objectives that support access to quality sexual and reproductive health services.

As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, the post holder will engage with government institutions, donors, media, civil society organizations, and other key stakeholders to position MSI Ethiopia as a trusted and influential voice in reproductive health.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Communications

• Develop and implement organizational communication strategies and annual communication plans.
• Lead the production of high-quality communication materials, publications, digital content, and success stories.
• Ensure compliance with MSI branding standards and donor visibility requirements.
• Manage MSI Ethiopia’s digital platforms and public-facing communications.

Advocacy and External Relations

• Develop and implement advocacy strategies to advance reproductive health and rights.
• Build and maintain productive relationships with government agencies, donors, development partners, professional associations, and civil society organizations.
• Prepare policy briefs, advocacy messages, and position papers.
• Represent MSI Ethiopia in national forums, technical working groups, and strategic platforms.

Media and Public Affairs

• Lead media engagement and public relations activities.
• Develop key messages, press releases, speeches, and briefing materials.
• Manage media inquiries and support organizational reputation management.
• Coordinate communication responses during emergencies or sensitive situations.

Leadership and Management

• Lead and mentor communications and advocacy staff.
• Manage departmental plans, budgets, and external service providers.
• Strengthen communication and advocacy capacity across the organization.

Qualifications and Experience

• Master’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, International Relations, Political Science, Development Studies, Public Health, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of relevant professional experience, including at least 5 years in a senior management role.
• Proven experience in strategic communications, advocacy, public affairs, stakeholder engagement, and media relations.
• Experience working with international NGOs, development organizations, donor-funded programs, or public health institutions.
• Demonstrated ability to influence policy, build partnerships, and manage organizational reputation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.

Required Competencies

• Strategic thinking and influencing skills.
• Strong advocacy, negotiation, and networking abilities.
• Excellent stakeholder and relationship management skills.
• Experience in media relations, public affairs, and crisis communication.
• Strong leadership and people management capabilities.
• Commitment to MSI’s values, safeguarding principles, and mission.