Community Relations Officer

Communication Relations Officer

Community Relations Officer

ROLE AND CORE FUNCTION: 

The Community Relations Officer is responsible for planning, developing, implementing, and evaluating community relations initiatives, communication strategies, outreach programmes, and related events that strengthen the institution's relationship with its internal and external stakeholders. The incumbent will promote positive community engagement, foster partnerships, coordinate outreach activities, and support initiatives that enhance the institution's image and community impact.

Education/Experience:

· Bachelor's Degree in Communication, Public Relations, Marketing, Social Sciences, Social Work, Community Development, or a related field.

· At least two (2) years' experience in public relations, community engagement, communications, or a related field.

· Experience in developing and implementing community intervention and community-building programmes.

· Exposure to, or training in, Restorative Justice.

· Exposure to, or training in, Social Work.

Specialized Skills, Techniques/Learned Disciplines:

· Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

· Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.

· Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

· Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and related software applications.

· Competence in the use of social media platforms and communication tools.

· Ability to conduct assessments and evaluate community programmes and activities.

· Ability to work under pressure and manage sensitive or controversial matters with diplomacy and professionalism.

· Strong planning, organizational, and event coordination skills.

· Trauma-informed and leadership training would be an asset.

Physical Requirements:

· Prolonged periods of sitting and working at a computer.

· Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds occasionally.

Special Conditions Associated With the Job:

· Work is normally performed in a typical office environment.

· Extensive travel between campuses and community locations may be required.

· May be required to work outside normal working hours to support community events and outreach activities.

JOB DESCRIPTION

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS:

Reports To:

(a) Directly: Principal

(b) Indirectly: Director- Planning and Operations

Supervision Given To:

(a) Directly: N.A.

(b) Indirectly: N.A.

FUNCTIONAL RELATIONSHIPS:

Indicate positions/departments over/from which the position:

(a) exercises functional authority:

(b) receives functional direction

LIAISES WITH:

Internally:

· Safety and Behavioural Management Team

· Health and Wellness Centre Staff

· Projects and Procurement Department

· Maintenance Department

· ICT Department

· Academic and Administrative Departments

Externally:

· Community Outreach Agencies

· Community Leaders

· Government Agencies

· Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)

· Alumni and Parent Groups

· Other Stakeholders

MAIN DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Build and maintain positive, harmonious, and productive relationships with community stakeholders.

2. Develop and implement community engagement, mediation, and intervention strategies to address community concerns and strengthen stakeholder relationships.

3. Assist with the supervision and coordination of designated non-academic operations and activities.

4. Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to plan, develop, implement, and coordinate community outreach initiatives, special events, public forums, and press conferences.

5. Recruit and coordinate volunteers to support community-based programmes and institutional initiatives.

6. Coordinate community outreach programmes that promote the institution's mission, values, programmes, services, and achievements.

7. Develop and manage communication activities designed to foster positive public perception and strengthen community partnerships.

8. Utilize social media platforms and other communication channels to support community relations activities and stakeholder engagement.

9. Prepare, distribute, and publish content that promotes the institution, its programmes, events, achievements, and community impact.

10. Coordinate the dissemination of publicity and promotional materials through various communication channels.

11. Respond promptly and professionally to inquiries from community members, stakeholders, and the general public.

12. Maintain records and prepare reports on community relations activities, outreach initiatives, and stakeholder engagement efforts.

13. Monitor community issues and trends and provide recommendations to management on strategies to strengthen institutional-community relationships.

14. Represent the institution at community meetings, events, and stakeholder engagements as required.

15. Perform any other related duties assigned by the Principal or designated supervisor.