Communications & Public Relations Officer

Communications & Public Relations Officer

KEY AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

Technical / Professional Responsibilities

• Respond to media requests/queries in accordance with the NET’s protocol.
• Monitor social, economic and political trends that may have an adverse or positive effect on NET as related to the educational sector and develops strategies to capitalize on opportunities and mitigate any negative impact on the NET.
• Provide technical advice in the development of policies and procedures to guide the communications and public relation process.
• Ensure compliance with the Access to Information Act’s policy and procedures when providing information.
• Monitor mechanisms to measure and evaluate service delivery of the NET and make recommendations to address issues or problems identified.

• Assist with the preparation of speeches, briefs, position papers, etc. and arrange interviews and other forms of external communication for NET, undertaking appropriate research to ensure accuracy and relevance of information provided.
• Coordinate public education programmes to ensure the public/stakeholders are kept abreast of the activities and successes of NET.
• Monitor and document media content for the print and electronic media.
• Coordinate the execution of formal and informal functions and other public relations events with donors/financiers/stakeholders on behalf of NET.
• Represent NET at meetings and other fora as required.

 REQUIRED KEY COMPETENCIES

Core

• Excellent planning and organizing skills with the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
• Excellent knowledge of public relations and communication practices
• Ability to demonstrate integrity, confidentiality and professionalism
• Effective oral and written communication skills
• Working well under pressure and with limited supervision
• Excellent presentation skills
• Proficiency in the use of relevant computer applications
• Excellent problem solving and analytical skills
• Excellent interpersonal and networking skills

 Technical

• Sound knowledge of communication and PR methodologies
• Knowledge of Marketing strategies
• Knowledge of event planning
• Knowledge of the  polices, rules and regulations of NET
• Sound Knowledge of the Access to Information Act
• Sound knowledge and understanding of the local media environment
• Knowledge of the educational sector

 SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Required to travel locally
• Established relationship with the media would be an asset