Head of Global Communications

Position description

The Head of Global Communications plays a key part in delivering Light for the World’s mission to spark lasting change on disability rights and eye health. As Head of Global Communications, you will lead the strategic implementation of Light for the World’s 2030 Communications Strategy across all regions. Your role is central to positioning the organization as a global leader in disability rights and eye health, shaping our brand and voice across platforms, and ensuring impactful storytelling that supports our mission, advocacy, fundraising, programming, and visibility goals.

You will oversee a dynamic international team, collaborate with leadership, and provide expert guidance in both planning and day-to-day communications and during critical moments. This role combines strategic leadership with hands-on execution, requiring a strong communicator with a global vision and a commitment to inclusive, ethical, and impactful messaging.

Your tasks

• Drive the implementation of our 2030 Global Communications Strategy across all regions and offices;
• Position Light for the World as a leading voice on disability rights and eye health, across global platforms and digital channels;
• Develop compelling, ethical communication products that support our mission, advocacy, fundraising, and awareness goals;
• Refresh and guide our brand identity to reflect our values and amplify our mission;
• Lead and mentor the Global Communications & Brand teams across diverse areas, including media, content, advocacy, and internal communications;
• Collaborate with national and country teams to align messaging and strategy, and provide expert guidance and support;
• Represent communications at the senior management level and advise the leadership team and board on communications matters;
• Position our experts, spokespersons, and advocates with lived experience in key media, events, and policy forums;
• Lead the creation of flagship communication products and campaigns that resonate globally and regionally;
• In coordination with safeguarding, leadership, and security teams, lead external and internal crisis communications;
• Provide risk mitigation strategies and support live crisis response with clarity and confidence.

Your profile

• At least 10 years of experience in strategic communications or public affairs, with at least 3 years of experience managing staff and budgets, ideally within an international NGO, global advocacy or campaigning organization, or internationally operating mission-driven institution;
• Proven experience and success enhancing organisational and brand visibility, credibility, and influence;
• Strong partnership, teamwork, and people management skills, with experience working in international and multicultural settings. Experience working with staff with disabilities a plus;
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate across cultures with sensitivity, respect, and inclusion. Experience working with staff with disabilities is an asset;
• Strong writing, editorial and presentation skills. Experience in media engagement, ethical storytelling, and in spokesperson roles a plus;
• Hands-on experience in crisis communications, including risk mitigation and rapid response coordination;
• Ability to plan complex processes, handle multiple tasks and meet tight deadlines. Full professional proficiency (both written and verbal) in English is required. German or French is a plus.

Application instructions

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