Programs Communication Officer

Role Purpose

The Program Communications Officer will drive external communications for our flagship programs: Youth Voice & Empowerment (YVE) and Integrated Investment in Vulnerable Children (IIVC). This role is critical to positioning SHOFCO as the leading youth-mobilizing platform in Kenya and demonstrating the scalability and impact of our community-driven work.

The ideal candidate is a self-starting 'doer' who can independently execute communications campaigns with high-level strategic guidance from program and communications leadership. This person will translate existing communications plans into tangible outputs: stories, campaigns, media placements, and stakeholder engagement activities that build SHOFCO's credibility with government, donors, media, and the communities we serve.

Key Responsibilities

• Execution of Strategy: Pick up existing communications frameworks and campaign playbooks and deliver quality content at pace, adapting to emerging opportunities as directed.
• Writing and Storytelling: Exceptional writing and editing in English and Kiswahili; translate program data and activities into compelling narratives.
• Digital Communication: Manage social media platforms, WhatsApp engagement, and other digital communications channels.
• Design Management: Proficiently use graphic and media design tools (Canva, Adobe, etc.) to work with templates; brief professional designers effectively when higher-level design is needed.
• Market Positioning: Approach communications with a marketing mindset to position SHOFCO competitively.
• Media Relations: Monitor news and quickly identify/act on communications opportunities within the Kenyan media landscape.
• Collaboration: Work closely with program teams, adapting to their priorities while maintaining high communications standards.

Requirements and Qualifications

• Academic: Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field.
• Experience: Minimum 3–5 years of experience in communications, public relations, or marketing.
• Track Record: Proven ability to execute communications campaigns (not just strategy development).
• Sector Knowledge: Experience in the NGO/development sector, government relations, or political communications preferred.
• Local Context: Deep understanding of Kenya's media landscape, political environment, and community dynamics.

Skills and Competencies

• Functional Skills: Articulating information, providing insights, quality control, and task management.
• Behavioural Attributes: Challenging ideas, taking action, team working, and responsiveness to feedback.
• Efficiency: Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities without close supervision; bias for action over over-planning.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should send their applications together with a detailed CV to recruitment@shininghopeforcommunities.org. The Subject should clearly indicate the position being applied for (Programs Communication Officer). Applications without this information will not be considered. Applications should reach us no later than 25th February 2026. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.