Communication or Comm/Prevention Manager 1 (800028)

What we do

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) works worldwide to provide protection and humanitarian assistance to people affected by conflict and armed violence. We act in response to emergencies and, at the same time, promote respect for international humanitarian law. We are an independent and neutral organization, and our mandate stems essentially from the Geneva Conventions of 1949. We work closely with National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and with their International Federation to ensure a concerted, rational and rapid humanitarian response to the needs of the victims of armed conflict or any other situation of internal violence. We direct and coordinate the international activities conducted in these situations.

Purpose

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and its Belgrade Regional Delegation wishes to advise all potential candidates of the opening of a full-time position for:

WESTERN BALKANS COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Regional Communication Manager to oversee communication strategies and public relations efforts in the Western Balkans. The primary goal of this role is to strengthen the ICRC’s engagement with various audiences, ensuring effective communication of our humanitarian mission. The ideal candidate will have exceptional analytical skills to assess the region’s evolving political, social, and humanitarian landscape, while also leading public and digital communication initiatives.

Main responsibilities

• Develop and implement communication strategies that align with ICRC’s global mission and regional priorities.
• Monitor and provide in-depth analysis of the political, social, and humanitarian situation in the region, identifying emerging trends and advising on communication approaches.
• Lead and manage ICRC communication projects from initiation to evaluation, ensuring timely execution within budget, and aligning with ICRC’s institutional goals.
• Oversee ICRC public communication efforts, including media relations, crisis communication, and public outreach, ensuring clear and consistent messaging.
• Acts as ICRC media lead for the sub-region, working closely with the ICRC spokesperson.
• Lead ICRC digital communication strategies in the sub region, including content creation for social media platforms, online campaigns, and multimedia projects.
• Contributes to building and maintaining strong relationships with media, communication government officials, NGOs, and other key stakeholders to increase visibility and impact.
• Coordinate with ICRC departments to align communication strategies with operational and humanitarian goals.
• Prepare and deliver reports on communication outcomes, analysing data to optimize future approaches and deliveries.

Experience required

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in communications, International Relations, Political Science, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in communications, preferably in the humanitarian sector or within international organizations.
• Proven experience in analysing complex political, social and humanitarian issues, and reporting on the same.
• Strong project management experience, including leading national or regional communication projects and initiatives.
• Demonstrated success in public communication, media relations, and crisis communication.

Desired profile and skills

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with proven experience working both in teams and independently under tight deadlines.
• Ability to quickly master complex topics and translate them into clear, impactful messages.
• Strong analytical and reporting skills.
• Deep knowledge of the political, social, and cultural environment in the region.
• Proficient in MS Office, including MS Publisher.
• Sound knowledge of digital communication tools and platforms, with a track record of successful online campaigns and content management.
• Knowledge of graphic design and producing audio-visual content, particularly for social media is a strong asset.
• Sound understanding of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and its mandate.

Additional information

• The selected candidate will work closely with ICRC staff in the region and report to the heads of the three ICRC structures in the Western Balkans.
• The position is based in Belgrade Regional Delegation (Vladimira Popovica 38-40, Novi Beograd), with occasional travel within the region and internationally as required.
• Candidates must be citizens of Serbia or holders of work permit of the Republic of Serbia.
• Fluency in English and local languages is required. French is an asset.
• The ICRC is an equal opportunity employer, encouraging applications from diverse backgrounds.
• Type of contract: open-ended, 40 hours per week (full-time position)
• Application deadline: 1 December 2024

Please include a motivation letter (no longer than one page), a detailed CV, and any other relevant documents.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.