Advocacy, Communication and Social Mobilisation Specialist at DG Murray Trust

Role

The Zero Dropout Campaign is providing support to the Department of Basic Education (DBE) for strategic implementation and monitoring of psychosocial support interventions geared towards contributing to the reduction and ultimate prevention of learner dropout.

Zero Dropout Campaign is an incubated project of the DG Murray Trust working to halve the rate of school dropout by 2030. This ambitious vision aims to set a common agenda and provides direction and clarity to mobilise and direct the activities of a diverse range of stakeholders towards the same critical outcomes.

The campaign seeks to appoint an Advocacy, Communication and Social Mobilisation Specialist based at the Department of Basic Education Head office in Pretoria within the Psychosocial Support department.

Minimum requirements

• Relevant qualification in marketing, communications and/or public relations
• At least 5 years experience relevant experience
• Exceptional communication abilities, including writing, speaking and active listening
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English. Additional South African languages are a plus.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data, frame and present arguments
• The ability to apply research insights and knowledge of behaviour change and communication theory to a practical implementation plan
• Proven ability to combine creativity and critical thinking to construct compelling messaging using well-presented data in various formats including text, video, audio and graphics
• Professional understanding of crisis management,
• Ability to effectively engage with team members of all levels and across departments
• Great project management skills, including time management, goal-setting, multitasking and prioritization
• Good data analysis, problem-solving and critical thinking skills

Additional qualifications or experience that will be an added advantage

• Evidence of the ability to make things happen, think strategically, work in uncertainty, and have strong people skills.
• Geared towards working in a collaborative environment
• Experience working across traditional and digital media platforms is an advantage
• Experience in working with DBE and NGOs is an advantage.
• Fluent in 2+ South African official languages.
• Driver’s license and willingness to travel are essential.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of Advocacy, Communication and Social mobilization strategy for the programme in collaboration with PSS programme stakeholders
• Translate High-level strategy into a measurable implementation plan with well-defined goals
• Consult with DBE management to develop effective communication procedures and policies for various situations or crises
• Draft press releases and monitor media mentions of school dropout and Psychosocial support to respond where necessary.
• Write letters, interdepartmental memos and other business correspondence
• Develop materials to educate learners and staff on PSS as linked to the prevention of learner drop-out
• Coach and assist team members in improving communication skills and aligning with messaging
• Perform communications research and monitor the progress of various communications strategies
• Supervise and mentor junior team members in the unit
• Lead conceptualizing planning and hosting of PSS events
• Develop IEC and branding material for the unit
• Work closely with the DBE Communications team