Communications Officer at Norwegian Church Aid ('NCA')

REPORTING TO: Country Director 

DUTY STATION: Maiduguri (with travels to other field locations).

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

The Communications Officer will conduct the country office’s communication efforts, ensuring NCA’s work is effectively shared with both internal and external stakeholders. This role enhances NCA’s visibility through diverse channels, promotes accountability and transparency, and supports advocacy efforts by capturing and communicating impactful stories. The officer plays a key role in articulating NCA’s programmes and achievements to national and international stakeholders, including donors. 

JOB ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Coordinate communication within the country office and with regional/global teams.
• Provide updates to the Country Director and global communications on campaigns and activities.
• Develop communication materials that showcase your country office`s programme portfolio, including newsletters, annual reports, social media posts, press releases fact sheets, and human-interest stories.
• Create a communication strategy to meet donor visibility requirements and attract new donors.
• Act as the primary media contact, handling inquiries, interviews, and reporting on NCA’s impact.
• Monitor media coverage and provide reports and analysis.
• Promote transparency by sharing information with local communities, especially disaster-affected populations.
• Share key updates via one@nca.no and Viva Engage and send monthly updates on behalf your country office to head office.
• Maintain updated content on the country office’s ONE page and NCA’s externa Website.
• Engage in NCA’s Communications Community of Practice (CoP), sharing successes and resources
• Manage social media, ensuring relevant and engaging content, and develop digital strategies to enhance online visibility.
• Identify, create, and share compelling stories, photos, and videos that illustrate NCA’s work, particularly those highlighting the voices of the communities.
• Coordinate interviews for media and publication.
• Ensure consistent brand identity and alignment with NCA’s mission and values.
• Provide training and support to NCA staff on effective communication practices, including the “How we work at NCA” rules, the Design Manual, and the Communication Policy
• Ensure reports and visibility materials align with NCA’s Design Manual
• Track and evaluate communication effectiveness, including media coverage and engagement.
• Support the HR Manager/Country Director in ensuring the office complies with all legal requirements in the country and that these are accurately reflected and updated in the National Legislation Appendix.
• Represent the country office in relevant national communication networks, clusters, and external forums to promote NCA’s work and build partnerships.
• Coordinate the documentation and archiving of all communications materials and media assets in line with NCA’s data protection and visibility standards.
• Provide support to other departments during key moments (e.g., reporting periods, advocacy campaigns) where communication inputs are required.
• Identify capacity gaps and recommend tools, resources, or training to strengthen communication efforts within the country office.
• Stay updated on global communication trends, technologies, and best practices, and advise on innovations that could enhance NCA Nigeria’s outreach. 

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

Technical & Communication Skills

• Proven experience in media relations, content creation (writing, photography video production), and managing social media accounts.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Strong presentation and facilitation skills for workshops, press briefings, and community dialogues.
• Digital Fluency: Advanced skills in: Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Graphic design tools (e.g., Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, Social media management and analytics.

Education & Credentials

• Degree: Bachelor’s in communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or related field (required).
• Certifications: Training in humanitarian communications, gender-sensitive reporting (preferred).

Professional Experience

• 3+ Years: Communications experience, preferably in humanitarian/development contexts
• Strong understanding of communication strategies and advocacy
• Portfolio Demonstrating: Crisis communications, Community engagement campaigns, Success stories/annual reports
• Language Skills: Fluency in local language(s) and English (required).

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Proficient in social media management and analytics tools.
• Ability to work independently and within a team, including collaborating with colleagues from diverse backgrounds.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to meet deadlines.
• Creative and adaptable, with a passion for storytelling and social impact.