Job Purpose:
The Program Communications Officer will drive external communications for our flagship programs: Youth Voice & Empowerment (YVE) and Integrated Investment in Vulnerable Children (IIVC). This role is critical to positioning SHOFCO as the leading youth-mobilizing platform in Kenya and demonstrating the scalability and impact of our community-driven work.
The ideal candidate is a self-starting doer who can independently execute communications campaigns with high-level strategic guidance from program and communications leadership. This person will translate existing communications plans into tangible outputs: stories, campaigns, media placements, and stakeholder engagement activities that build SHOFCO’s credibility with government, donors, media, and the communities we serve.
Comprehensive communications frameworks and campaign playbooks/strategy already exist. We need someone who can pick up the playbook and run with it, delivering quality content at pace while adapting to emerging opportunities as directed by the Programs Department.
Key Responsibilities / Duties/ Tasks
- Exceptional writing and editing skills in English and Kiswahili
- Strong storytelling ability, can translate program data and activities into compelling narratives
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities without close supervision
- Practical understanding of social media platforms, WhatsApp engagement, and digital communications
- Proficiency with graphic and media design tools (Canva, Adobe, etc.) and ability to work with templates
- Strong judgment on visual quality, can differentiate good design from bad and brief designers effectively
- Local context expertise: Deep understanding of Kenya’s media landscape, political environment, and community dynamics
- Marketing mindset: Approaches communications with urgency and a drive to position SHOFCO competitively
- Responsiveness: Monitors news and can quickly identify and act on communications opportunities
- Collaborative spirit: Works well with program teams, adapting to their priorities while maintaining communications standards
- Bias for action: Executes efficiently rather than over-planning; comfortable with iteration and feedback.
Academic Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, or related field
Other requirements (unique/job specific)
- Minimum 3–5 years of experience in communications, public relations, or marketing
- Proven track record executing communications campaigns (not just strategy development)
- Experience working with media in Kenya—understanding of local outlets, journalists, and news cycles
- Experience in the NGO/development sector, government relations, or political communications preferred
Functional Skills:
- Articulating information
- Providing insights
- Checking things
- Managing tasks
Behavioural Competencies/Attributes:
- Challenging ideas
- Taking action
- Team working
- Inviting feedback