Digital Communications Officer

Description

Heifer International is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, status as a protected veteran, among other things, or status as a qualified individual with disability.

Function

As a part of the Communications Team, the Digital Communications Officer is inspired to make an impact and engages Heifer International’s audiences using the organization’s distinct voice and tone. This position will write and edit content, including blog posts, social media, magazine articles, and graphics and data visualization, in a variety of styles for different channels.

The ideal candidate is mission-driven and cohesive, engaging stories while meeting editorial deadlines.

Since 1944, Heifer International has worked with more than 39 million people around the world to end hunger and poverty in a sustainable way. Working with rural communities in 21 countries in Africa, Asia and the Americas, including the United States, Heifer International supports farmers and local food producers to strengthen local economies and build secure livelihoods that provide a living income.

Essential Character Traits

Exceptional communicator, independent self-starter, adaptive, flexible, creative, mission-driven, culturally aware, diligent, sharp, passionate, detail-oriented and willing to learn.

RESPONSIBILITIES & DELIVERABLES

A. In collaboration with the Senior Communications Officer and the wider team, develop digital and print content (65%)

• Write engaging and informative content for a variety of channels
• Create graphics and imagery to complement and strengthen copy
• Craft shareable content for social media posts
• Upload posts to Heifer’s website using its custom CMS
• Collaborate with wider Heifer community to source content
• Contribute ideas to the editorial content plan
• Work in partnership with web team to keep copy in ‘Our Work’ and ‘About Us’ sections of Heifer.org website up to date
• Contribute feature length articles to Heifer’s printed and digital magazine, as well as the Heifer blog
• Contribute to development and crafting of thoughtful blogs for executive social media channels
• Provide copy-editing and proofreading support

B. Support content promotion in new channels (15%)

• Explore opportunities to extend Heifer’s communications reach
• Support development and delivery of new initiatives
• Test new approaches to delivering content through digital magazine

C. Assist with content research and outreach needs (15%)

• Compile relevant information for upcoming stories
• Produce analytics reports and integrate findings into content evolution
• Help build and maintain content calendars

D. Perform other job-related duties as required (5%)

Minimum Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Mass Communications, Digital Communications, English, Advertising, Public Relations and/or Media Studies; plus two-three (2-3 ) years’ experience  creating digital content and social media (professional or personal) with proven engagement success; motivated and independent work style.

Preferred Requirements

4-5 years of experience at a non-profit organization or international other development organization (including internships); proficient in AP style; graphic design and/or animation skills; familiarity with sustainable development work; proficiency in Spanish or other relevant language.

Most Critical Proficiencies

1. Excellent written and verbal communications skills
2. Familiar with traditional and digital marketing channels, content marketing, analytics, HTML and content management systems
3. Strong understanding of SEO and keyword research
4. Solid organizational skills to manage multiple projects with competing deadlines in a confident and calm manner
5. Strong proofreading and editing skills
6. Forward-looking and able to connect the dots
7. High energy, enthusiasm and a commitment Heifer’s work
8. Self-starter who does not need to be directed, pushed or reminded but works well as part of a team
9. Thorough knowledge of Microsoft Office (i.e. PowerPoint, Word, Excel, Outlook) and competent with content management platforms

Essential Job Functions and Physical Demands

• May require working in front of a computer for extended periods
• Ability to maintain or communicate sensitive information appropriately to internal and external audiences
• Uphold journalistic excellence and credibility in all assignments
• Ability to interact with diverse individuals and groups tactfully and assertively with the ability to listen attentively and creatively, leaving only a positive impression
• Ability to produce accurate documents in a well-designed and attractive format appropriate for Heifer’s worldwide audience with impeccable attention to detail
• Ability to handle multiple tasks with inflexible deadlines and constant interruptions
• Proven ability to consistently meet deadlines
• Constant telephone and electronic communication with internal and external colleagues at all levels
• Ability to work with sensitive information and maintain confidentiality