Strategic Communications Lead

8 May 2024

We are looking for an experienced and dynamic Strategic Communications Lead to support and implement the strategic communications strategy of Climate Action Network. Candidates must have a track record in developing and executing media and communications strategies across geographies and demographics for a wide range of stakeholders. Knowledge of international political negotiations around climate change is highly desirable, as are coordination, convening and capacity-building skills. This will suit a driven, savvy and compassionate individual who can work both collaboratively and independently. 

ORGANISATION SUMMARY

With over 1900 members in nearly 130 countries, Climate Action Network (CAN) is one of the largest civil society movements fighting for climate justice. Climate justice cannot be separated from social and racial justice, and this forms the basis of our work. We hold governments and leaders accountable to their climate pledges and demand putting people and the planet first. Resolving the climate crisis requires urgent transformational change.

CAN International (CAN-I) is the International Secretariat of the global network, which has 24 regional and national nodes. We are committed to justice, equity, decoloniality, inclusion, diversity, bottom-up participatory processes and transparency. The CAN team is made up of individuals with passion, hope and drive to work for a better world for our current and future generations, guided by the principles of climate justice.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

  • As part of the Communications Team, provide strategic communications and media support to the CAN-I Secretariat and network, via the overall political strategy and campaign foci.
  • Co-manage the CAN editorial calendar, editorial team meetings, press webpage, media inbox and newsletter. 
  • Co-manage a database of journalists focused on CAN issue areas.
  • Be an active participant in communications working groups across CAN’s network, and with allies, focussed on strategies, tactics, implementation and capacity building.
  • Work closely with communication experts from partner organisations specifically at high level events.
  • Monitor media coverage and provide metrics for reporting and planning.
  • Together with the Head of Communications, provide support to address additional needs of the CAN-I Secretariat, such as UN press briefings, fundraising and crisis response.

REQUIREMENTS

  • 6-9 years of experience in strategic communications – academic and occupational experience in the fields of journalism, digital media and mass communications will be taken into account
  • Strong editorial, writing and audience segmentation skills
  • Proven track record of developing and executing strategic communications for complex or technical issues
  • Skilled with media monitoring and analysis for influencing strategy and narratives
  • Excellent communication and coordination skills
  • Accustomed to creating engaging multimedia and social media assets for wide dissemination 
  • Familiar with hiring and working with freelancers
  • Ability to work reactively and proactively in high pressured situations
  • Experience in being involved in handling crisis situations will be an advantage

JOB-RELATED SKILLS AND ABILITIES

  • Organised and able to manage tasks and deadlines
  • Cross-cultural sensitivity and ability to work effectively in different socio-cultural contexts 
  • Good listener, facilitator and consensus-builder
  • Ability to take initiative and to work remotely as part of a diverse and international team
  • Strong identification with CAN’s values including but not limited to transparency, honesty, inclusiveness, empathy, solidarity and respect

IT SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS

  • Ability to coordinate meetings and work plans in a virtual environment and using digital tools
  • Knowledge of communication tools e.g. Mailchimp, WordPress, Hootsuite etc.

LANGUAGE ABILITY

Fluency in spoken and written English required. 

Any additional language will be an advantage.  

TRAVEL

  • Ability to travel internationally up to 20% of the time, incl. ability and availability to travel for 2-3 weeks at a time.

HOW TO APPLY

Please fill out the job application form and attach your CV, as mentioned in the form. The deadline for applications is 21 May 2024

Expected job-starting: by mid-July

Please, no telephone inquiries. Based on the expected large interest in this position and limited capacity, only candidates chosen for interviews will be contacted.

CAN is an equal-opportunity employer. We strive to make positions accessible to all regardless of race, nationality, ethnicity, age, disability, gender expression or identity, sexual orientation or identity, religion, marital or parental status, etc.

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