Specialist- Communication

JOB SUMMARY

The Communications Specialist provides strategic and operational communications support to Habitat for Humanity Ethiopia. The specialist manages day-to-day communications functions, strengthens public and media presence, and produces high-quality content for donor engagement, programs and public audiences. This includes developing stories, digital content and visibility materials, supporting effective internal communication processes, and coordinating proactive media outreach. The Specialist works closely with programs teams, resource development and regional/global communications to ensure consistent messaging and alignment with Habitat for Humanity Ethiopia’s strategic priorities.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

External Communications & Media Relations:

• Support the implementation of Habitat for Humanity Ethiopia’s communication and visibility plans aligned with country priorities and global standards.
• Strengthen public image through strategic PR, media relations, press releases, media briefings, storytelling and proactive pitching.
• Maintain and update a database of journalists and media partners; nurture strong working relationships with key outlets.
• Monitor media coverage, assess reputational risks and recommend appropriate actions.
• Prepare key messages, talking points and media preparation materials for Country Director and spokespersons. Develop messaging and tools for leadership and fundraising teams.
• Identify media opportunities, story angles and moments that can amplify Habitat for Humanity Ethiopia’s visibility.
• Ensure brand and visibility guidelines are applied consistently across all external-facing materials.
• Collaborate with advocacy, fundraising, and partnerships teams to engage donors, government, and the public.

Internal Communications Management:

• Ensure that key internal communications messages and products of Habitat for Humanity Ethiopia are skillfully developed and articulated for meeting their objectives.
• Serve as a consistent, creative and timely information source on key areas and issues and their specific program sectors.
• Establish systems and safeguards for the appropriate and effective flows of relevant information both internally and externally.
• Developing, editing, curating, and publishing creative, clearly written material and digital content for key communications platforms in support of Habitat for Humanity’s brand and communications strategies in liaison with content owners.
• Provide communications support in organizing events, project-based workshops and partner dialogues; develop plans, press releases, and social media messages; produce project-based Information Education and Communication (IEC) materials.

Content development and brand management

• Create compelling, audience-specific content across platforms (e.g., articles, social media, press releases, multimedia).
• Manage and update website and social media channels to enhance engagement and reach.
• Support the design and production of communication assets, ensuring adherence to Habitat for Humanity’s brand and donor visibility guidelines.
• Coordinate photography, videography and field content gathering to document Habitat for Humanity Ethiopia’s work.
• Collaborate with regional and global communications to share content that supports broader visibility goals.

Program & Donor Communications Support

• Document programme activities through stories, case studies, photos and field updates for use in donor reports and proposals.
• Build capacity of program teams to document and share impact stories and case studies.
• Support donor visits by coordinating field logistics, preparing communication materials and capturing stories and visuals.
• Ensure alignment of communications with donor requirements and program objectives
• Work closely with programme and resource development teams to ensure content meets donor requirements and quality standards.
• Contribute to communication components of donor-funded projects, including visibility plans, storytelling and reporting inputs.

Safeguarding:

• Remain alert and responsive to any safeguarding risks, acquire relevant knowledge and skills which will enable us to promote strong safeguarding practices, understand the safeguarding policy and procedures, and conduct in a manner consistent with Safeguarding Policy.

Duration of the contract: – 1 year with possibility of an extension.

Duty Station:  Addis Ababa

Salary:  Negotiable

Required number: -  1

Vacancy Closing date: – January 06

Minimum Requirements:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in mass communication, Journalism, public relations, Political science and international relations, English language and Business Administration
• Knowledge of Advocacy would be an added advantage.
• Years of Related Experience: A minimum of four (4) years’ hands-on experience in a similar position.
• Skills in photography and videography
• Skill in web-based messaging and social media

Active support for HFHI Values:

o Humility – We are part of something bigger than ourselves

o Courage – We do what’s right, even when it is difficult or unpopular

o Accountability – We take personal responsibility for Habitat’s mission

Safeguarding: HFHI requires that all employees take seriously their ethical responsibilities to safeguarding our intended beneficiaries, their communities, and all those with whom we work. Managers at all levels have responsibilities to support and develop systems that create and maintain an environment that prevents harassment, sexual exploitation and abuse, safeguards the rights of beneficiaries and community members (especially children), and promotes the implementation of Habitat for Humanity’s code of conduct.