About US:
Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI) is one of the constituent research institutions under the Uganda National Health Research Organization (UNHRO). UVRI has a broad mission to carry out scientific investigations on communicable diseases of public health importance and to advise government on strategies for their control and prevention. UVRI is a collaborating partner in the Target Malaria consortium. Target Malaria is a not-for-profit research consortium that wants to contribute to saving millions of lives from malaria. This project started a decade ago with a funding from the Grand Challenges in Global Health initiative and is now funded through a program of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:
Communication Advice:
Coordinate the implementation of the communication plan with Target Malaria project teams in Uganda;
Guide the project team on the strategy of engagement and communication with stakeholders;
Provide communication options for the different phases of the project depending on the overall strategy and resources available;

Internal Communication Tools:
Collect and archive project documentation to promote the project results and impacts; o Document the project implementation process;
Provide information for the regular updating of the project website;
Assist the team during communication crises;
Support stakeholders’ engagement teams in the preparation of briefings for meetings;

External Communication Tools:
Position the Target Malaria project to stakeholders with the necessary tools such as printed, audio-visual and other relevant materials;
Carry out communications products and materials or coordinate their realization with subcontractors;
Actively promote communication by helping the development of appropriate methods of social, cultural, and scientific dialog
Work in close coordination with the other consortium members to write press releases;
Develop and manage the budget for communications operations following the project guidelines;
Support the local team in the organization of exhibitions, information dissemination activities and other public relations events, based on the strategy developed;
Actively promote existing communication tools (e.g. website, etc.);
Management of social media and networks:
Build and manage the relationship with the national and local press in coordination with the global communication manager of Target Malaria;
Identify and maintain a working relationship with various media at national and local level;
Actively participate in the design of the media strategy in Uganda and implement it;

Capacity Building:
Work in liaison with the communications team of Target Malaria based in London, organize training and other activities necessary to improve the capacity of the Uganda team communication;
Support teams during preparations for outdoor events or interviews with the press;
Work closely with the global communications team of Target Malaria, coordinate training for media partners;

Qualifications, Skills and Experience:
The applicant should hold a Degree-level education
At least three years of professional experience in the field of communication.
Previous experience and knowledge of radio, video, print and web production
Prior experience with traditional and social media, preparing press releases, and organizing media campaigns;
Previous exposure and experience in managing external suppliers, consultants and creative process (in collaboration with designers, photographers, etc),
Previous experience in capacity building is an asset
Experience in communication for the development
Ability to work collaboratively and productively with colleagues, external consultants, and multiple stakeholders within complex management matrices in different geographical locations;
High level of interpersonal and influencing skills;
Excellent writing and presentation skills;
Highly proficient in major computer software; including ability to prepare PowerPoint presentations;
Excellent written and oral communications skills, with the ability to produce effective communications for variety of audiences;
Proven ability to prioritize multiple work streams and meet tight deadlines;
Flexible approach to deliver work plans and revise as appropriate to meet changing needs and requirements;
Proficiency in written and oral English, written and spoken French is an added advantage;

How to Apply:
All suitably qualified and interested candidates should send their applications with the following: an updated C.V., detailed, with names and contacts (e-mail and phone) of two work-related referees, and certified true by the candidate: with copies of academic certificates, and transcripts. The interested candidates should submit their applications in a sealed envelope marked: “Communication Officer” to:

The Director,
Uganda Virus Research Institute,
P.O. Box 49, Entebbe. Uganda

Email to: directoruvri®uvri.or.ug (make sure to put Target Malaria in the subject tine)

OR Hand-deliver to his office at Plot 51-59, Nakiwogo Road, Entebbe.

Deadline: 22nd August, 2016 by 5:00PM