Communications Specialist at Achieving Health Nigeria Initiative (AHNi)

The Communications Specialist will support the ‘Accelerating Control of the HIV Epidemic in Nigeria project (ACE – 1) Chief of Party, by managing all internal and external communications of the project and representing the project to external audiences. H/She should possess exceptional public speaking and writing skills. H/She is expected to be a strategic thinker with meticulous attention to detail, working well under pressure, and meeting deadlines. H/She should be able to write, compile publications, plan events and prepare advocacy briefs. H/She will be responsible for developing quality and visually appealing presentations, content management for AHNi website and Social Media channels, communication materials through graphic design and web optimization solutions. The successful candidate must possess excellent organizational skills and ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds and experience.

Responsibilities

• Support the development and implementation of internal and external communications strategies for the organization.
• Support maintenance of social media platforms, databases, and knowledge management systems
• Provide support towards content development for AHNi ACE – 1. Assist in the production of day-to-day content across all AHNi’s communications platforms, focusing on newsletter and digital content, website articles, blogs, press releases and updates and content for social media.
• In coordination with all AHNi projects, develop regular communication material highlighting ACE – 1 activities and achievements and/or engagements.
• Assist in rolling out media events such as press conferences/media briefings, external interviews with media houses, campaigns, etc.
• Draft, translate and disseminate media products (media advisories, press releases, brief notes, etc.).
• Development of communication materials for marketing and awareness-raising campaigns, including briefing materials and press releases in coordination with the ACE – 1 project management team and AHNi Senior leadership.
• Review of reference materials, identification of reference materials for retention. Maintenance of information database and photo library.
• Take part in communication activities including information campaigns where applicable (World AIDS Day, etc.)
• In collaboration with other Program team, assist in identifying and drafting success stories and compiling lessons learnt.
• Assist in implementing social media strategy and campaign, including content development, dialogue monitoring as well as feedback collection
• Updating and maintaining online platforms, support design of content including graphic designs for digital distribution.
• Content development and design of high-quality Information Education and Communication (IEC) materials, factsheets, and other publications.
• Deliver creative infographics and technical solutions for print, electronic and animated presentations.                                                                              

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of and experience with strategic communication on HIV prevention, care and treatment
• Brand management and ability to create new ideas, products, including creative contributions
• Exceptional creative and adaptive writing skills that cuts across writing and review of program reports, success stories, advocacy briefs and preparation of scene setters
• Design and graphics skill and ability to represent program results with graphics, messaging to diverse audiences, identification of the best suited communication channels based on target audience, and dissemination techniques and methods.
• Ability to work in a team under tight deadlines in a dynamic and fast-paced work environment
• Very good mastery of English. Ability to understand and communicate in Hausa, Kanuri and Fulfulde will be an added advantage.
• Proficient in the use of computer applications related to the tasks.
• Highly proficient in Adobe Illustrator.
• Experience working with local NGOs, INGOs and government bodies would be an advantage.
• Ability to pay meticulous attention to detail.

Minimum Recruitment Standard

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Social Sciences, or related field. Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of 5–7 years’ progressive experience in communications, knowledge management, or media relations within the NGO/Development sector.
• Demonstrated expertise in developing communication strategies, producing donor-focused reports, and managing public/media relations.
• Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills with proven ability to simplify technical information for diverse audiences.
• Proficiency in digital communication tools, social media management, graphic design, and multimedia content production
• Experience supporting advocacy, health, or humanitarian projects is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of PEPFAR, Global Fund, or other donor communication requirements is an added advantage.
• Excellent interpersonal and networking skills, with ability to engage with stakeholders, government, donors, and the media.
• Ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines, and manage multiple priorities.