Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi) is a collaborative, patients' needs-driven, non-profit drug research and development (R&D) organization that is developing new treatments for Neglected Diseases ( dndi.org)

DNDi has a large portfolio of R&D activities covering 7 disease areas: human African trypanosomiasis, leishmaniasis, Chagas disease, filarial diseases, mycetoma, paediatric HIV, and hepatitis C. R&D projects are driven by patients' medical needs for each disease area that in turn set strategy and scientific approaches.

DNDi does not have any research facilities and does not directly conduct research to develop its treatments. DNDi follows a virtual research model, whereby most research is outsourced with the R&D projects actively managed by DNDi personnel who are experienced in different aspects of pharmaceutical development. DNDi proactively identifies research opportunities that have the highest potential to be translated into improved treatment options, then sources the research project into its portfolio, builds the full development plan, identifies and contracts the appropriate partners for each step in the development process, and manages the efficient advancement of the project throughout the pipeline.

Over half of the R&D staff are located in Geneva working in close collaboration with disease-specific R&D teams operating in regional offices located in Africa, Asia and South America.

Purpose of the position

The communications consultant will help build the visibility of DNDi activities in Sudan specifically in relation to COVID-19 and neglected diseases (leishmaniasis and mycetoma).

This position will primarily be involved in attracting and nurturing press interest in Sudan and also support content collection activities. The position will also support other communication support activities as needed.

Specific job responsibilities

Media

• Map out a comprehensive list of local and foreign health, politics, society journalists and correspondents in Sudan with a focus on Arabic media
• Develop and execute media plans targeted towards Sudan in consultation with the Regional Communication Manager
• Pitch stories to local media houses, organize coverage, and invite journalists to media roundtable/ press conferences as needed
• Support the planning of journalist trainings
• Set up interviews between journalists and experts
• Assist in reviewing, translating, and circulating press releases
• Write op-eds relevant to Sudan and pitch to Sudanese media houses
• Assist the Regional Communication Manager to manage media requests/ queries locally and prepare a comprehensive report of media coverage
• Work with foreign correspondents in Khartoum to generate stories for the international media, with special focus on countries from MENA/Gulf

Content collection

• Help organize content collection trips in Sudan
• Carry out basic Photography for DNDi use

Communication support

• As needed, link up with partners to collect information that can be used for DNDi social media platforms
• Responsible for translating to/ reviewing documents in Arabic language

Reporting line

• S/he reports to Regional Communication Manager based in Nairobi, Kenya

Job requirements

Skills and attributes

• Good communication and analytical skills, well organized, and structured

• Ability to approach assignments with creativity
• Be able to work well under pressure and contribute to the project delivery under supervision
• Demonstrate good judgment and problem-solving competencies
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills and ability to work effectively as part of an international, multi-cultural team
• Excellent organizational skills and proven ability to produce high quality results under tight deadlines

Experience

• A minimum of five years of relevant experience in public health, science, humanitarian, development communication, or other related fields
• Demonstrated skills in writing editing and proofreading and fundamental photography
• Proficiency in media engagement
• An understanding of and commitment to poverty-related global health, scientific research, and public health issues especially in Africa

Education

• A Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, public relations, or a related field

Other requirements

• Fluency in English
• Proficiency in both Arabic and English languages
• Very good knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint

Other information

• Status: Fixed term consultancy

To apply

• Please submit your application using the online form
• Deadline for application: Accepting applications until 23 August 2020
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
• Application submission for this position may close early if we have enough suitable applicants