News

Job Opportunity: Senior Communications Consultant, DIGITAX Programme

13th April 2022
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Closing date for applications: May 8th, 2022

The International Centre for Tax and Development (ICTD) is looking to hire a skilled and motivated Senior Communications Consultant to lead on the design and execution of the communications and engagement strategy for the DIGITAX research programme.

DIGITAX is a three-year research programme funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. With the rapid expansion of mobile money and other digital financial services (DFS), as well as the increased relevance of digital IDs across Africa and other lower-income countries, the DIGITAX programme aims to generate knowledge and evidence to support governments in overcoming the challenges and leveraging the opportunities presented in two main areas:

  1. The first is the design of appropriate and effective taxation of DFS and its providers, which can impact the development of these markets and financial inclusion.
  2. The second is harnessing the potential that the expansion of DFS and digital IDs presents, in terms of extensive new data, for the improvement of tax collection and administration.

This is an exciting opportunity to shape and lead on delivering the communications and engagement strategy for a cutting-edge research programme. The role will involve:

  • Working closely with DIGITAX researchers to identify key messages and strategise on the dissemination of research findings and policy recommendations
  • Leading on the continuing development and delivery of the DIGITAX communication strategy, including media and social media strategies
  • Managing the DIGITAX communications budget and projects, including contracting external firms and freelancers for the production of multimedia content and other outputs
  • Writing and editing material (including blogs, policy briefs, and news stories)
  • Organising engagements with policymakers and other partners and stakeholders, including both in-person and virtual events
  • Measuring the reach and impact of the programme’s communications and engagement for donor reporting

Term:

This is a full time consultancy contract, to begin as soon as possible and continue until March 31st, 2024.

Salary

£45,000 – £60,000 per annum, negotiable depending on experience and fit for the role

Location:

The consultant can be based anywhere in the world, as this is a remote position. The focus of the work is international, and primarily in sub-Saharan Africa. Some travel can be expected, although not frequently.

Person Specification:

Qualifications
  • Undergraduate degree
  • Post-graduate degree, professional certification or equivalent professional experience in communications, journalism or other relevant subject

Knowledge
  • Understanding of current thinking and practice in communications to achieve research and policy impact
  • Knowledge and interest in international development issues, with knowledge of digital finance, financial inclusion, and taxation and public policy desirable
  • Strong knowledge of the use and application of digital technologies in communications
  • Excellent working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications
  • Proven knowledge in audience mapping and analytics to target, measure, and report on reach and impact

Skills
  • Proven strategic planning skills, ability to create a vision and execute it
  • Strong all-round communication skills, including verbal and written communication skills
  • Editing and proofreading skills
  • A good grasp of design principles for various types of media
  • Demonstrated experience using all major social media platforms
  • Excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to liaise and communicate with colleagues and partners at all levels of seniority and in cross cultural environments
  • Ability to assimilate complex research or other material quickly
  • Ability to identify and synthesise key findings and messages
  • Professional fluency in English is essential. Knowledge of French or other African languages is desirable.

Experience
  • At least 5 years’ experience in communications including:
  • Working in the international development, nonprofit, public policy or international research sectors
  • Developing and delivering communication strategies and outputs, including the production of multimedia materials
  • Liaising with the media and handling press enquiries
  • Creating a social media strategy as part of wider communications plan
  • Project management experience, including strategic planning and financial management.
  • Supporting high-profile events
  • Experience working in the African context, in a role relating to public policy and engaging with government officials is desirable

Attributes
  • A team player with energy, enthusiasm, flexibility and a pro-active approach to work
  • A self-starter who can develop and execute ideas through their own initiative and work at a high level of autonomy
  • An excellent coordinator, with the ability to make links between issues and organisations, and to build relationships with people at all levels and from diverse backgrounds.
  • A  creative and entrepreneurial thinker who can identify opportunities for communications and engagement activities
  • Highly organised with the ability to set priorities and meet deadlines, as well as pay attention to detail and ensure the quality of published outputs

If you are interested in applying for this position, please send your CV and cover letter to [email protected] with the subject line “DIGITAX Comms – Your Name” 

The deadline to apply is May 8th, 2022.