Job Title: Communications and Advocacy Lead
Organization: Unwanted Witness
Location: Kampala

About Unwanted Witness:
Unwanted Witness is a non-profit organization dedicated to advocating for digital rights, freedom of expression, and online privacy. We are committed to safeguarding online freedoms and ensuring digital spaces remain open, secure, and inclusive.

Position Overview:
Unwanted Witness is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Communications and Advocacy Lead to drive the organization’s communication strategies and advocacy initiatives. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in communication, public relations, advocacy, and a passion for promoting digital rights and online freedom. The Communications and Advocacy Lead will be responsible for planning, implementing, and overseeing all communication activities and advocacy campaigns for Unwanted Witness.

Responsibilities:
Communication Strategy and Management:
• Develop and implement comprehensive communication strategies aligned with organizational objectives. Manage the organization’s brand identity, ensuring consistency across all communication channels.
• Collaborate with teams to gather and curate compelling stories and data to effectively communicate our mission and impact.

Advocacy Initiatives:
• Lead advocacy campaigns by developing clear messaging, outreach plans, and materials to support lobbying efforts.
• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, government agencies, NGOs, and media outlets to further advocacy efforts.
• Monitor relevant policy developments and identify opportunities for advocacy interventions.
• Collaborate with internal teams to develop advocacy materials, including reports, policy briefs, and other content to support campaigns.

Media and Public Relations:
• Act as the primary liaison for media inquiries, ensuring timely and accurate responses.
• Build and nurture relationships with journalists, influencers, and media outlets to amplify our presence in the public sphere.
• Prepare spokespeople within the organization for interviews, presentations, and public appearances.
• Draft press releases, op-eds, articles, and other media-related materials.
• Monitor media coverage and identify opportunities to increase the organization’s visibility.

Monitoring and Evaluation:
• Implement systems to measure the effectiveness of communication and advocacy efforts.
• Analyze metrics, generate reports, and make data-driven recommendations for continuous improvement.

Content Creation and Management:
• Create engaging content for various platforms, including the website, social media, newsletters, and other communication channels.
• Manage and update the organization’s website and social media profiles with relevant and timely content.
• Monitor and analyze the performance of communication channels and adapt strategies for maximum impact.
Team Collaboration and Leadership:
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including research, IT, and leadership, to align communication efforts with organizational objectives.
• Provide leadership and guidance to junior staff or volunteers working on communication-related tasks.

Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field. A Master’s degree is a plus. Proven experience (at least 2 years) in communications, advocacy, or public relations roles, preferably within the digital rights or NGO sector.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with an eye for detail and ability to craft compelling messages. Strong understanding of advocacy strategies and the digital landscape.
• Proficiency in utilizing various communication tools, social media platforms, and content management systems. Experience in developing and executing successful advocacy campaigns.
• Ability to multitask, work effectively under pressure, and manage projects with deadlines. Passionate about digital rights, privacy, and freedom of expression

This is a full-time position based at our Kampala office. The salary and benefits package will be competitive and commensurate with experience.