DAI is a global development company with corporate offices in the United States, the United Kingdom, EU, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Palestine and project operations worldwide. We tackle fundamental social and economic development problems caused by inefficient markets, ineffective governance, and instability. DAI works on the frontlines of global development. Transforming ideas into action—action into impact. We are committed to shaping a more livable world. DAI and its employees are committed to confronting racism and holding ourselves accountable for positive change within the company and in the communities, cultures, and countries in which we live and work.  DAI is committed to attracting and retaining the best employees from all races and backgrounds in our continued effort to become a better development partner. DAI upholds the highest ethical standards. We are committed to the prevention of sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment as well as other ethical breaches. All of our positions are therefore subject to stringent vetting and reference checks.

DAI is seeking qualified candidates for the Kyiv-based Senior Strategic Communications Manager position on its newly awarded USAID Governance and Local Accountability (HOVERLA) Activity. Interested candidates should submit their application through the following portal: 

https://fs23.formsite.com/OLJTgx/quxlyo8hmw/index.html?1618952685727

The deadline for applications is May 3, 2021.

ACTIVITY OVERVIEW

DAI Global is implementing the USAID-funded Governance and Local Administration (HOVERLA), based in Kyiv, Ukraine. This project is designed to support Ukraine advance self-reliant local governance including legislative reforms, participatory strategic planning methodologies, service improvement, local economic development, civil society engagement, and capacity building of sub-national government entities.

Objective 1:  Ukraine’s system of local self-governance is increasingly institutionalized and effective

Objective 2: More self-reliant subnational governance

Objective 3: Citizens play an increasingly influential role in local governance processes

Objectives and Duties:

The Senior Strategic Communications Manager will oversee and manage all areas of project communications and reporting. S/he will oversee the HOVERLA communications strategy and ensure that all communications platforms comply with USAID regulations and contractual requirements and are delivered on time. Working closely with MEL Director, Chief of Party and USAID, the Senior Strategic Communications Manager will prepare materials, including media campaigns, project success stories, and other communications products for dissemination to the project’s stakeholders, beneficiaries, and partners.

The Senior Strategic Communications Manager will be responsible for, but not limited to, the following detailed tasks:

• Develop the HOVERLA Program Communication Strategy, including utilization of social media platforms, for internal and external communications.
• Assist objective leads and regional manager in developing public outreach activities for project counterparts.
• Develop innovative communications products to actively engage HOVERLA stakeholders across Ukraine, including institutional and private sector partners.
• Oversee HOVERLA deliverables for reporting, including establishing HOVERLA reporting schedules and developing reporting templates.
• Build the capacity of HOVERLA staff in developing content from project activities.
• Collect and organize data-calls to the relevant programmatic teams to solicit information on progress of project activities and service delivery projects.
• Integrate, edit, and finalize HOVERLA communications products, including draft written materials, success stories, press releases, and regular reporting requirements (monthly, quarterly etc.)
• Manage and store all documents in DAI’s management information system (TAMIS) and Sharepoint.
• Maintain and develop content for the project’s website in coordination with the IT team and USAID.
• Work with Ukraine HOVERLA programmatic staff to develop and produce marketing, outreach, and materials for events.
• Serve as the point of contact for local media inquiries.
• Review and edit project documents submitted by subcontractors and grantees.
• Serve as liaison with media groups to cover specific and relevant project activities, such as opening and closing ceremonies.
• Provide quality assurance on USAID branding and marking.
• Liaise with relevant stakeholders, including institutional and private sector partners, to increase visibility and maximize coordination.
• Develop ad hoc communications products which could include social media, video production, written, web content etc.
• Develop and maintain project website/social media platform as needed.
• Monitor press coverage—including news wires, local newspapers, television, and radio.
• Coordinate on-demand information for USAID or other stakeholders.
• Represent HOVERLA at large scale events and meetings as required.
• Other activities as requested by COP and DCOP

Qualifications:

• Strongly preferred master’s degree in communications, journalism, literature or another related field.
• At least 9 years of progressively responsible experience in communications, reporting, communications product development, and knowledge management.
• Experience working with USAID or other international donor-funded programs.
• Excellent writing skills and experience preparing well-researched reports.
• Demonstrated experience designing strategic communications plans, developing and implementing knowledge management tools or systems, and developing content for social media platforms.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with institutional and private‐sector partners and stakeholders.
• Proficiency with MS Office (Word and Power Point), graphic arts and/or desktop publishing software a plus.
• Excellent writing, speaking, and reading skills in English.