Reporting to the Chief Public Affairs and Communication Officer, the Director, Program Communications, Pan African Programs will be responsible for developing program communications strategies and driving the implementation of initiatives within Pan African Programs delivery platform. This role leads the implementation of communications best practices, builds communications capacity within the program communications team, elevates the Foundation’s reputation and brand, and amplifies the impact of the Foundation’s work across Africa.

WAYS YOU CAN CONTRIBUTE 

• Develop and implement a strategic communication direction for Pan African Programs (PANA), aligning with program objectives.
• Provide strategic advice to Pan African Programs leaders.
• Manage and develop the communication team, fostering innovative communication models and channels.
• Collaborate with key stakeholders and manage multi-stakeholder relationships to achieve strategic objectives.
• Craft and execute communication and storytelling campaigns targeting priority audiences, including governments, the private sector, funders, and young people.
• Support senior team members and subject matter experts, preparing them for effective engagement at major events and with the media.
• Improve communication quality through new skills, tools, and innovative methods.
• Develop systems and tools to ensure consistent messaging across mediums, forums, and countries.
• Align key partnerships with the Foundation’s values and objectives.
• Manage budgets for the Pan African Programs Communications portfolio.
• Engage with key stakeholders, especially women and young people, and cultivate relationships with media personnel to shape the Foundation’s image.
• Facilitate the engagement of leaders in high-impact forums to advance thought leadership aligned with core programs.
• Work with youth ambassadors and young people in the Foundation’s programs to elevate their voices and views.
• Build and support teams in effective internal and external communication, including crisis resolution.
• Provide leadership, coaching, and development to the team, promoting a culture of high performance and continuous learning.

WHO YOU ARE

• Master’s degree in communications or a related field, with a relevant professional qualification. Membership in a relevant professional body.
• Minimum of 15 years of overall experience, including at least 5 years in management.
• Experience working in Africa for a global or regional organization in the private sector or an NGO, with valued experience in senior management or government/public sector engagement.
• Proven experience working with senior teams and providing strategic counsel.
• Expertise in building communications capacity at various organizational levels.
• Experience living/working in a global context.
• Strong ability to develop and execute communication strategies with measurable results.
• Proficiency in digital and social media, particularly in reaching young people and targeted audiences.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, coupled with strong interpersonal and listening abilities.
• Highly creative, flexible, and an excellent storyteller with a progressive approach.
• Demonstrated commitment to Mastercard Foundation’s values and vision.