Purpose of the position
The Communications Manager for DNDi Latin America is responsible for enhancing the organization’s visibility in the region and positioning DNDi as a leading partner in research and development and innovation for neglected patients. The incumbent will be responsible for developing and implementing a communications strategy for DNDi in the region, as part of both the broader regional external affairs strategy and the global communications strategy and priorities. Ensure that the LatAm regional perspective and content are seamlessly integrated into global communication strategies and outputs. Also, ensure that LatAm regional outputs align with the global brand and messaging. In collaboration with other teams, this position manages the LATAM communications team to deliver high-quality and effective communications that reflect DNDi’s brand, position, and messages, contributing to achieving DNDi’s objectives in the region.
The incumbent is a member of the DNDi Latin America extended leadership team, contributing to overall direction of the regional office. This role provides together with the Head of External Affairs, specialized communications support and advice to the Regional Director and other senior managers in public positioning, media relations and other matters that affect DNDi’s perception.
Specific job responsibilities
Communications strategies
- Develop and implement a communications strategy and communications annual plans for DNDi in the region, using media relations, digital communications (web and social), corporate communications, scientific communications, stakeholder engagement, events, and other communications channels and outputs
- Develop and implement integrated communications plans that support regional objectives, in particular those from R&D and Access, Business Development, Policy & Advocacy, Fundraising
- On behalf of the global communications team, develop and deliver the communications strategy for specific diseases to be assigned in close liaison with R&D teams and DNDi partners; contribute regional elements to communications strategies for other relevant diseases in the region or themes (e.g. drug discovery, gender, climate, etc.)
Media relations
- Secure positive coverage of DNDi and DNDi leaders on all forms of traditional and modern media (TV, print, radio, podcasts, influencers, etc.).
- Identifying and creating opportunities for media coverage from external and internal milestones, targeting features, breaking news, and opinion desks
- Mapping health and science reporters throughout Latin America, cultivating close relationships with reporters and editors following health, R&D, and other related issues
- Drafting pitches, press releases, op eds, talking points and other supporting materials
- Maintaining the media contacts database
- Proactively manage or support the management of reputational risks for DNDi in the region
Communications management
- Lead, motivate and manage the Communications Officer, and actively shape their contribution.
- Oversee and actively participate in the delivery of the LatAm comms team, notably with respect to:
- Writing, editing, and corporate communications:
- Ensure corporate branding, graphic design, and style guidance is followed by DNDi staff and external consultants, providing 1:1 advice and support as needed
- Conceptualize, write, and edit a range of print and digital products, including short-form publications such as leaflets, fact sheets, corporate announcements, video scripts, etc.; long-form publications such as brochures and reports; copy for website, e-newsletters, infographics, social media posts, etc.; PowerPoint slide decks, etc.
- Digital communications:
- Ensuring regional website (dndial.org) is continuously updated with appealing and relevant content, and follows web best practice
- Guiding the strategy for social media outreach in the region and updating corporate and individual leadership social media channels
- Content collection and production
- Writing, editing, and corporate communications:
- Manage and maintain a network of outsourced resourcing such as graphic design, translation, and copy-editing consultants, comms and events agencies and other third parties, identifying needs, selecting vendors following due processes, and overseeing deliverables.
- Manage the communications budget in Latin America
Advocacy (or public affairs)
- Define a strategic plan considering each product and program to influence the public policy agenda for neglected diseases and correlated subjects
- Map strategic stakeholders (allies and opponents) for neglected diseases and populations, considering the public and private health sector, civil society and patient engagement
- Monitor public policies and other initiatives related to DNDi´s agenda
- Customize key messages for strategic stakeholders.
- Identify opportunities for stakeholders’ engagement and to leverage DNDi´s image
- Define a strategic plan to promote awareness about DNDi´s mission and the needs regarding neglected diseases and population
- Strengthen DNDIs network for communication and advocacy with partners such as MSF and others to optimize advocacy activities in the region
Reporting line
- Communication Manager reports to Head of External Affairs – LATAM
Interactions
- Works with the Communications team and several departments including external relations, policy/advocacy, operations, R&D and Access teams on a regional and global level.
- This role has a representational role through the promotion of programs and maintain productive relationships by projecting the image of a credible partner
Job requirements
Skills and attributes
- Strong ability to use initiative, prioritize, multi-task, and work well under pressure to meet deadlines
- Clear and systematic thinking that demonstrates good judgment and problem solving competencies
- Strong communication skills in multicultural, multi-lingual environments
- Strong ability to work effectively as part of a multicultural team
- Well organized and structured
- Strong analytical skills
- Strong ability to provide high level support in project/program delivery
- Strong ability to manage small projects with budget management
- Strategic thinking and leadership abilities
- Strong management, negotiation, and advocacy skills
- Has autonomy for taking actions and decisions
- Strong ability to interact with external stakeholders
- Lead and motivate a small team for optimum performance, supervising junior staff
Experience
- Minimum 6 years’ relevant experience in which at least 4 years at Senior Officer level
- Proven ability to work effectively in a team environment and matrix structure
- Experience of working in public and private sector is highly desirable
- Significant experience in managing complex communications projects or campaigns, with multiple internal and external stakeholders
- Experience of interacting and advising with senior leadership
- Significant experience in media relations in Latin America, either as a reporter or as a communications professional
- Significant experience in managing complex communications projects or campaigns, with multiple internal and external stakeholders
Education
- Advanced post graduate degree or graduate degree with equivalent in experience to reach Master level
Other requirements
- Working fluency in English essential
- Native level in Portuguese and/or Spanish essential, and working fluency in the other highly desirable
- Proficient in Portuguese and Spanish (oral and written)
- Very good knowledge of Microsoft Suite
How to apply
To apply
- Please submit your application using the online form
- Deadline for application: accepting applications until May 16
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
- Application submission for this position may close early if we have enough suitable applicants