Description
IFC — a member of the World Bank Group — is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. We work in more than 100 countries, using our capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities in developing countries. In fiscal year 2023, IFC committed a record US$43.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, leveraging the power of the private sector to end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity as economies grapple with the impacts of global compounding crises. For more information, visit http://www.ifc.org.
Context of the position
Are you passionate about having an impact on people’s lives and contributing to solving some of the world’s greatest development challenges? Do you believe that the private sector can provide practical and efficient responses to most pressing issues in Asia and the Pacific, and generate growth and jobs to drive down poverty and improve the quality of life for people? Then consider this opportunity.
We are looking to hire a Communications Officer to oversee external and internal communications for IFC in Indonesia, Timor-Leste, and the Pacific. IFC fosters sustainable economic growth by financing private sector investment, mobilizing capital, and advising businesses and governments on projects that generate returns for investors and provide lasting benefits to communities. The position will report to the Communications Lead for East Asia and the Pacific, and will be based in Jakarta, Indonesia. He/she is expected to travel, including in difficult markets where security risks may prevail, as needed to effectively perform his/her role. The right candidate will be highly organized, and a good team player collaborating with colleagues in the Asia and Pacific region.
The Communications Officer will be an integral member of the Regional Communications Unit. This Unit works closely with Corporate and Industry communications teams to advance business development and communicate IFC’s impact in regions of coverage. Regional Communications Officers engage with IFC’s stakeholders – companies and businesses, development partners, civil society, and others -, to promote projects that show IFC’s leadership and innovation as the premier partner of choice for the private sector in emerging and developing economies. They also support efforts to manage reputational risks around IFC’s investments and policies. The Regional Communications Unit collaborates regularly with counterparts within World Bank Group.
Role and Responsibilities:
This is an exciting opportunity for a communications professional to work within a dynamic team to implement IFC’s communications strategy in Asia and the Pacific. The successful candidate will have a solid background in communications and experience working in the region.
• Strategy: Plan, design and execute a communications strategy and activities to promote effective communications with external and internal audiences focused on IFC’s role and impact. Conceptualize and determine the types of information and communication interventions that are best suited.
• Relationships: Build and manage effective professional relationships with key industry, government, development, civil society groups, and World Bank Group colleagues. Position IFC’s Country Managers and project team leads as spokespersons and thought leaders in the private sector development space. Respond to routine and non-routine inquiries about IFC’s operations to enhance two-way communications and dialogue.
• Business Development: Use a variety of tools, techniques, and resources to support business development and to strengthen IFC’s brand, including press releases, media pitching, website development, social media, promotional materials, and events.
• Risk Management: Work closely with project teams and IFC clients to identify and mitigate reputational risks, enhance stakeholder engagement efforts, and clearly communicate the long-term development impact and IFC’s value-add in high profile projects.
• Media Relations: Cultivate relationships with key journalists and secure press coverage for IFC initiatives in local media.
• Products: Write, produce, and disseminate of both routine and complex communication products (e.g., media packets, news releases, op-eds, brochures, Q&As, presentations, briefing notes, online and social media content, speeches) about IFC operations.
• Events: Coordinate scheduling and briefings for communications activities (e.g. executive missions and speeches, press conferences, seminars) involving external and/or internal audiences.
• Technical and advisory support: Advise IFC teams on trends, news, or changing/unexpected circumstances that may impact IFC and its work, and help determine strategic responses. Provide communication support to IFC teams and clients
Selection Criteria
• Master’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Political Science, International Relations, Public Affairs, Marketing, Business/Finance with 8 or more years’ experience in corporate communications in-house or in agency, international relations, public affairs, political science, or other related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience. In addition, a degree in Business Administration and/or working experience in investment operations or in the private sector will be valued.
• Experience working in Indonesia, Timor-Leste, or the Pacific a plus.
• Proven ability to conceptualize, design, and implement communications strategies, campaigns or programs with effective impact on target audiences.
• Knowledge of national and international trends, demonstrated political awareness, and ability to diplomatically handle sensitive situations with target audiences.
• Self-motivated, creative, excellent organizational skills, proven ability to perform multiple tasks, and ability to work with both internal and external audiences.
• Knowledge of design tools (Adobe InDesign, Photo Shop, Canva), website design, content management, and media and social media monitoring tools (Hootsuite, Talkwalker) is a distinct plus.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with a willingness to work in a team environment.
• Highly developed verbal and written communications skills, ability to convey complex messages succinctly and diplomatically.
• Excellent English writing and editing skills. Fluency in Bahasa Indonesia a plus.
• Exceptional ability to write, communicate, operate under pressure and tight deadlines with accuracy and professionalism.
• Understanding of multilateral development institutions, including the World Bank Group, its policies and operations; as well as current development topics and issues.
• World Bank Group Core Competencies for all staff: Client orientation; Drive for results; Teamwork of collaboration and inclusion; Knowledge, Learning and communication; and Business judgment and analytical decision-making.
World Bank Group Core Competencies
The World Bank Group offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan; medical, life and disability insurance; and paid leave, including parental leave, as well as reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.
We are proud to be an equal opportunity and inclusive employer with a dedicated and committed workforce, and do not discriminate based on gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.
Learn more about working at the World Bank and IFC, including our values and inspiring stories.