Senior Science Communication Officer

The Senior Science Communication Officer is responsible for supporting the development and delivery of high-quality, strategic science communication initiatives that promote the Foundation's research programmes, partnerships, and impact. The role involves designing, coordinating, and implementing multi-channel communication activities, translating complex scientific research into accessible and engaging content, and providing technical guidance to programme teams on communication and knowledge dissemination.

• Develop and implement communication strategies and plans that align with programme and organisational priorities.
• Provide technical oversight and quality assurance for science communication outputs, ensuring consistency and impact.
• Identify key audiences and tailor communication approaches to effectively engage them.
• Guide and support junior officers in executing activities such as content creation, media engagement, and event communications.
• Ensure that all content and messaging adhere to brand and visibility guidelines.
• Strengthen relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including programme leads, grantees, funders, and media partners.
• Serve as the focal point for communication coordination across assigned programmes or initiatives.
• Facilitate collaboration and knowledge sharing among communication teams and consortium partners.
• Support advocacy and visibility efforts to position the Foundation and its programmes as thought leaders in science and innovation.
• Oversee the creation of communication materials, including press releases, case studies, blogs, reports, and multimedia content.
• Translate complex research findings into clear and accessible language for diverse audiences.
• Lead editorial processes and ensure accuracy, tone, and alignment with institutional standards.
• Ensure effective dissemination of content through digital, media, and event platforms.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to communication staff and grant partners on effective science communication.
• Review and approve key communication materials before publication or dissemination.
• Promote consistency, innovation, and best practice across communication outputs.
• Lead communication planning for major events, workshops, and conferences, ensuring alignment with strategic goals.
• Develop pre- and post-event visibility materials and coordinate with digital teams for coverage.
• Build and maintain media relationships, ensuring accurate and positive coverage of SFA Foundation's work.
• Track, monitor, and report on communication performance, outcomes, and lessons learned.
• Prepare communication inputs for programme and funder reports.
• Maintain organised documentation and archives of communication materials and media coverage.
• Contribute to internal learning and continuous improvement in communication practices.
• Support the Manager in planning and managing communication budgets and workplans, ensuring efficient use of resources.
• Manage vendor and consultant relationships for communication assignments.

• A minimum of a bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, journalism, science communication or a related field from a recognised institution.
• A Master's degree in a relevant discipline is preferred.
• Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills; experience in media relations and digital communications; ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Strong understanding of the African health, research, and innovation landscape, with the ability to translate complex scientific and technical concepts into clear, compelling communications for diverse audiences.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and budgets simultaneously.
• Proficient in using digital tools and platforms for communication, including social media management, website content management systems, and multimedia production.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
• Computer proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, digital literacy and ability to learn new applications quickly.
• Demonstrated ability to simplify complex scientific content for varied audiences.
• Proven experience in editorial leadership, mentoring staff, and cross-functional communications project management.
• Must have proven and demonstrated leadership skills such as delegating responsibilities, developing others, facilitating change, and leading through vision and values.
• Must demonstrate the ability to manage stakeholders.
• Demonstrates ownership and accountability.
• Drives cross-functional collaboration and knowledge sharing.
• Supports a culture of continuous improvement and quality focus.
• Upholds integrity and promotes a strong documentation and governance culture.