The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, with a network of 191-member National Societies. The overall aim of the IFRC is “to inspire, encourage, facilitate, and promote at all times all forms of humanitarian activities by National Societies to prevent and alleviate human suffering and thereby contributing to the maintenance and promotion of human dignity and peace in the world.” The IFRC works to meet the needs and improve the lives of vulnerable people before, during and after disasters, health emergencies and other crises.
IFRC is part of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement (Movement), together with its member National Societies and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). The IFRC's work is guided by the following fundamental principles: humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality.
IFRC is led by its Secretary General and has its Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. The Headquarters is organized into three main Divisions: (i) National Society Development and Operations Coordination; (ii) Global Relations, Humanitarian Diplomacy and Digitalization; and (iii) Management Policy, Strategy and Corporate Services.
IFRC has five regional offices in Africa, Asia Pacific, the Middle East and North Africa, Europe, and the Americas. IFRC also has country cluster delegations and country delegations throughout the world. Together, the Geneva Headquarters and the field structure (regional, cluster and country) comprise the IFRC Secretariat.
This position will be based in Nairobi, Kenya, with regular travel to other African countries. The Communications Officer, Audio Visual (AV) will report to the Regional Communications Manager in Nairobi, Kenya.
The Communications Officer, Audio Visual (AV) will be responsible for drawing attention to and highlighting the humanitarian situation, needs of the affected people and Red Cross Red Crescent response through visual communication by producing high-quality and compelling video materials (i.e., footage, b-roll, edited clips, etc.) that the media and Movement partners can use.
Content Strategy
Develop, implement, and maintain effective content strategies to increase the visibility and understanding of the work of the IFRC and the African National Societies. Lead initiatives for capacity building of African NS - through training and support to NS staff and volunteers on communication best practices, including writing, public speaking, media engagement, and social media management.
Content Production
Develop an editorial strategy for content collection in Africa. Work with the IFRC global communications team to propose and develop compelling narratives using video content, guided by the editorial calendar. Capture and edit human impact stories that are high-quality, compelling video footage and b-roll guided by the editorial strategy and tailored for a range of communications channels. Systematically gather, record, and submit comprehensive data and information on video content captured (i.e., consent forms, shot lists, captions, extended narrative, etc.). Produce footage and information in line with the ethical values of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, adhering to IFRC video guidelines. Share captured and edited materials according to IFRC processes and guidelines for wider distribution and use. Travel regularly in Africa to create content and support NS communications efforts.
Media Relations
Support media relations by responding to requests for audio-visual materials on time. Proactively identify opportunities to pitch audio-visual content to media outlets. Organize and facilitate media visits to project sites and interviews with IFRC representatives and National Societies. Maintain positive media relationships with local, regional, and international outlets to ensure accurate and positive coverage of IFRC and NS activities.
Capacity Building
Lead initiatives for capacity building of African NS through training on audio-visual communication best practices on packaging content through, writing, media engagement, and social media management.
Emergency Communications & Deployment
Support emergency communications by deploying to affected regions to manage urgent and timely communications responses. Implement the emergency communication rapid deployment mechanism to ensure speedy online and media coverage. Establish quick contact with affected National Societies to coordinate emergency messaging and provide on-the-ground support.
Duties applicable to all staff.
Actively work towards the achievement of the goals of the Federation Secretariat. Abide by and work by the Red Cross and Red Crescent principles. Perform any other work-related duties and responsibilities that may be assigned by the line manager.