Organization Profile The African Mental Health Research Initiative (AMARI) is a capacity-building programme established in 2015 to develop an Africa-led network of future leaders in mental, neurological, and substance use (MNS) research. Currently implementing its second phase, AMARI-II (2023–2027), the initiative is supported by the second phase of the Developing Excellence in Leadership, Training, and Science in Africa (DELTAS Africa), a programme of the Science for Africa Foundation, with funding from Wellcome and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). AMARI operates under the University of Zimbabwe’s Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences Research Management Unit.
Position Information Job Title: Communications Officer Duration: 12 months (renewable, subject to funding availability) Start Date: 1 May 2025 Employment Type: Full-time (100%) Location: Harare, Zimbabwe Application Deadline: 31 March 2025, 17:00 CAT
Job Description The Communications Officer will be responsible for executing communication and dissemination activities for AMARI, a multi-country collaborative consortium focused on building the capacity of African mental health researchers. This role entails developing and implementing effective communication strategies, producing informative materials, and crafting compelling narratives to showcase the initiative’s impact. Reporting to the Programme Manager, the Communications Officer will work closely with partner institutions to ensure alignment with the initiative’s goals. The ideal candidate is an innovative and solution-oriented professional with a background in science communication or journalism.
Duties and Responsibilities
1. Strategy Development and Implementation -Develop and implement a comprehensive communications plan and annual work plans aligned with AMARI’s objectives. -Identify key messages, target audiences, and effective dissemination channels. -Regularly evaluate and refine communication strategies based on performance metrics and feedback. -Ensure all programmatic content and events adhere to branding guidelines.
2. Showcasing Impact and Content Development -Promote and package research findings for internal and external stakeholders, including funding partners. -Shape AMARI’s storytelling and highlight its impact journey. -Develop case studies, thought leadership articles, and blog posts from fellows and program staff for publication. -Maintain consistency in messaging across all communication platforms.
3. Event Support -Manage the communication aspects of AMARI-related events, workshops, and conferences. -Provide communication support to enhance event success and strategic alignment. -Develop and maintain an annual events calendar to facilitate planning and coordination.
4. Advocacy and Funder Engagement -Support the implementation of advocacy strategies to enhance AMARI’s profile among policymakers, funders, and the scientific community. -Assist in engaging funders by effectively communicating AMARI’s impact and fostering strong relationships. -Contribute to funding reports by providing editorial oversight and relevant communication content.
5. Science Communication and Knowledge Contribution -Advocate for science communication within AMARI and among its stakeholders. -Share best practices and innovative approaches to enhance AMARI’s visibility and impact. -Contribute to thought leadership activities such as writing articles and collaborating with other science communication professionals.
6. Reporting and Budget Management -Develop and manage communication budgets and work plans. -Prepare reports on communication activities, outcomes, and impact for internal and external stakeholders. -Perform other duties as assigned by the Programme Manager.
Qualifications and Experience
Qualifications and Experience: -A bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations, or a related field. -A minimum of two years of professional experience in communications, preferably within science, research, or non-profit sectors. -Proven ability to develop and implement communication strategies aligned with project goals. -Excellent writing and storytelling skills for various platforms, including web, social media, and print. -Experience in advocacy and stakeholder engagement, particularly with funders and policymakers. -Strong media relations experience, including building relationships with journalists and securing media coverage. -Proficiency in digital communication tools, including social media management, website content management, and multimedia production. -Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and budgets. -Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders. -Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) and the ability to quickly learn new applications. -Knowledge of design software (Photoshop, Illustrator, or InDesign) is an advantage. -Fluency in English is required.
How to Apply
Eligible and interested candidates should submit a cover letter and CV (as a single document) addressed to the Programme Manager via email to [email protected], with a copy to [email protected]. Alternatively, hard copies can be submitted to the Research Management Unit, University of Zimbabwe Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
Application Deadline: 31 March 2025
Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.
