About US:
The National Planning Authority (NPA) was established by an Act of Parliament No.15 of 2002 in compliance with article 125 of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda (1995). Accordingly NPA is the principal statutory agency responsible for the management of national and decentralized development planning in Uganda. The primary function of the Authority is to produce comprehensive and integrated development plans for the country elaborated in terms of the perspective Vision, Long and Medium-term Plans.

Job Summary: The Senior Communications and Public Affairs Officer will provide leadership in spearheading strategic communication initiatives and overall management of the Authority’s public relations working with Internal and External Stakeholders to promote and strengthen the mandate and Strategy of the Authority.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:
Responsible for planning, developing, implementing communication and Public Relations Strategies;
Liaising with management and the Chairperson in answering enquiries from media, individuals and other organization using the appropriate media or channels
Tasked with researching, writing and distributing approved press releases to targeted media
Collating and analyzing media coverage
Initiating, preparing and supervising production of publicity brochures, handouts, direct mail leaflets, promotional videos, photographs, films and multimedia programmes.
Devising and coordinating photo opportunities
Formulating work plans, procurement plans and budgets for Communication and Public Affairs Unit
Developing various types of media tools (in print, broadcast, electronic and other promotional materials)
Communicating with colleagues and key spokes people
Organizing events including press conferences, exhibitions, open days, corporate events and press tours
Working in liaison with ICT Department to update information on the NPA website
Managing and updating information and engaging with users on social media sites such as twitter and Facebook
Tasked with facilitating and maintaining a positive relationship between the Authority and its external stakeholders including the media
Supporting the Chairperson and Executive Director of the Authority in carrying out the spokesperson function for NPA
Fostering community relations through events such as open days and through involvement in community and social responsibility initiatives
Managing the ordinary PR aspect of the institution including reputation risks
Sourcing and managing opportunities for disseminating knowledge and materials
Performing any other duties that may be assigned to him/her

Qualifications, Skills and Experience:
The ideal candidate for the National Planning Authority (NPA) Senior Communications and Public Affairs Officer job opportunity should hold a Master’s Degree in the following areas: – Public Relations, Journalism, Mass Communication, Media Relations and Corporate Affairs Or a Masters in Business / Management / Marketing or related relevant field with a first-degree qualification in Public Relations and Communication, Journalism or Public Relations from a reputable University will also be considered.
Professional qualification in any of the above field is an added advantage
Membership of a relevant professional body is essential
A minimum of five years of relevant working experience in the field of communications, public relations with a reputable organization
Ready to work beyond official hours, withstand pressure, work under minimum supervision and meet deadlines
Extensive knowledge of theories, principles and practices of communication as they relate to Public Relations and Communication Services
Detailed knowledge and expertise in media communications
Expertise in the use of digital and socio media as well as other digital communication tools
Advanced competence in the release of Information for Publication
ICT proficiency
Excellent command of English, public speech and excellent writing skills
Knowledge of protocol issues
Pleasant personality, good interpersonal, negotiating, communication and advocacy skills
Highly critical and analytical mind and good grasp of development planning and other national economy related issues
Good network management skills
Good stakeholder management skills
Age: Between 30 – 51 years

How to Apply:
All suitably qualified and interested candidates should send two sets of applications with detailed curriculum vitae clear phone and email contacts, photocopies of academic and professional certificates and transcripts should be directed to: The Executive Director, National Planning Authority, P.O. Box 21434 Kampala Uganda; Planning – House Plot 17B Clement Hill Road.

Note:
The preferred method of applications delivery is physical delivery through the NPA Front Desk / Reception. However, postal applications are also allowed provided they are received before the deadline indicated below
Shortlisted candidates shall be notified through their email addresses and phone contacts indicated on the application or CV.

Deadline: Friday, 7th April 2017 by 16:55 hours.