Partner, Scholars Program Communications at Mastercard Foundation

The Work at the Foundation

• We have entered a very exciting time at the Foundation as we scale up our operations across Africa to realize our Young Africa Works strategy. Our role at the Mastercard Foundation is to be a catalyst. Our Young Africa Works strategy focuses on working with others to spur systemic change so young people have the opportunity to find work that is dignified and fulfilling.
• The Foundation has opened offices in Rwanda, Kenya, Ghana, Senegal, Ethiopia, Nigeria and Uganda, building a broader leadership presence in Africa to develop specific strategies that support youth employment.  Within a country, we work with governments, the private sector, educators and other funders to improve the quality of education and vocational training, prepare young people for the work force, expand access to financial services for entrepreneurs and small businesses, and connect job seekers to dignified and fulfilling work.
• We are ambitious and driven. Our values transcend and rise above everything else as our guide. We encourage you to bring your bold ideas, curiosity, and expertise to your work. We laugh at ourselves and with each other. We are a team. Our journey together makes our impact even more meaningful.

The Opportunity

• As the Partner, Scholars Program Communications you will work as an integral part of Program Communications team working closely with the Scholars Program to ensure that communications efforts are integrated and aligned with program objectives as the seek to expand the Scholars Program, to support transitions to work and to expand the Baobab platform. This position will report to the Lead, Scholars Program Communications.
• The successful candidate will be based in one of our country offices in Africa (Uganda, Rwanda, Nigeria or Ghana).

Ways You Can Contribute

• Work collaboratively with the Program Communications colleagues to ensure consistency of messaging and integration of activities and content.
• Act as a representative and advocate for the Scholars Program, clearly and confidently presenting the Program to the general public, potential scholars, civil society audiences etc.
• Facilitate effective relationships, and dialogues with strategic partners.
• Support the Head, Program Communications in delivery of the unit’s strategic priorities under the direction of the Lead, Scholars Program Communications
• Travel within the region to support/mentor and/or to carry out the implementation of communication and outreach activities with strategic partners as required.
• Liaise with assigned partners ensuring alignment with Program and Foundation branding.
• Development of the alumni network and expansion of the Baobab platform.
• Work with Scholars Program team and Youth Engagement team to plan and execute SMART cross-platform (digital, social, and Baobab platform) content and campaigns.
• Work with the Youth Engagement team and alumni to execute a communications strategy that contributes to and supports the goals of the alumni network expanded Baobab platform.
• Ensure communications channels are used effectively, campaigns are measured, and learning/best practices are identified and shared with communications colleagues.
• Amplify the voices of Mastercard Foundation Alumni, encouraging and enabling first-person story-telling.
• Position Mastercard Foundation Alumni as transformative leaders driving change in their communities and across the content.
• Develop and execute media strategies for programs and activities related to the alumni networks.
• Ensure partner program materials (i.e. social media, brochures, digital properties, and other content) are aligned to brand guidelines and messaging.
• With the Lead, Scholars Program Communications, provide support to the Head of Program Communications on emerging crisis communication needs.
• Work collaboratively with the Program Communications colleagues to ensure consistency of messaging and integration of activities and content.
• Other duties as assigned.

Who You Are

• You have demonstrated experience with traditional and social media.
• You have experience working and convening young people.
• Ability to manage several projects simultaneously and re-prioritize as needed.
• Possess a sense of urgency; self-motivated and detail-oriented.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build collaborative relationships.
• Proactive approach in resolving problems and issues.
• 5+ years’ experience as a communications professional.
• Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, or related field.
• Possess, sensitivity with different cultures, and integrity that exemplify the Foundation’s values.
• You have a commitment to Mastercard Foundation’s values and vision.
• French language and/or local language skills are an asset.