Job Purpose
The Communications and Public Relations Officer will provide strategic leadership in planning, developing, and executing integrated communication and public relations initiatives that enhance the visibility, credibility, and reputation of the organization. The role is responsible for shaping public discourse, managing stakeholder relationships, supporting advocacy efforts, and leading crisis communication in a complex and highly scrutinized industry. The officer will play a critical role in promoting responsible pesticide use, addressing misinformation, and strengthening trust across internal and external audiences.
Key Responsibilities
Communication Strategy & Leadership
Develop and implement comprehensive communication and public relations strategies aligned with organizational and industry priorities.
Provide strategic advisory support to leadership on communication, reputation, and stakeholder engagement matters.
Lead the planning and execution of high-impact communication campaigns.
Content Development & Thought Leadership
Support the development of high-quality communication materials including press releases, policy briefs, reports, speeches, and digital content.
Drive data-driven storytelling and thought leadership to position the organization as a credible industry voice.
Ensure consistency in brand messaging, tone, and positioning across all platforms.
Media Relations & Public Engagement
Build and maintain strong relationships with media houses and journalists.
Coordinate media engagement on behalf of the organization.
Proactively manage media narratives, including addressing misinformation and sensitive industry issues.
Organize press briefings, media events, and interviews.
Crisis Communication & Reputation Management
Develop and implement crisis communication frameworks and protocols.
Provide strategic communication guidance during crises affecting the organization or industry.
Manage responses to negative publicity, misinformation, and emerging risks.
Safeguard and strengthen the organization's reputation.
Stakeholder Engagement & Advocacy
Build and sustain relationships with key stakeholders including government agencies, regulators, industry partners, and development organizations.
Support advocacy initiatives by developing clear, evidence-based messaging.
Represent the organization in high-level meetings, forums, and conferences.
Digital & Social Media Strategy
Lead digital communication strategies, including social media and online engagement.
Oversee content planning, publishing, and performance tracking across platforms.
Monitor digital conversations and ensure timely, accurate responses.
Internal Communication
Design and implement internal communication strategies that enhance alignment, transparency, and engagement.
Facilitate effective communication between management and staff.
Ensure timely dissemination of organizational updates and industry insights.
Event & Outreach Management
Lead the planning and execution of strategic events, forums, and outreach activities.
Ensure events are aligned with communication and advocacy objectives.
Oversee documentation, reporting, and visibility of events.
Corporate Social Investment (CSI)
Support and communicate the organization's corporate social responsibility initiatives.
Promote programs that enhance environmental sustainability and community engagement.
Awareness Creation & Industry Education
Lead communication initiatives that promote responsible pesticide use and stewardship.
Develop impactful campaigns to improve public understanding and awareness.
Corporate Culture & Brand Alignment
Promote organizational values, mission, and vision through internal communication initiatives.
Support culture-building efforts that enhance employee engagement and alignment.
Budget & Resource Management
Develop and manage the communications budget in line with strategic priorities.
Ensure effective allocation and utilization of resources.
Any Other Duties
Undertake additional responsibilities as assigned by management within the scope of the role.
Requirements
Minimum Requirements
Bachelor's degree in communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field.
Membership in the Public Relations Society of Kenya is mandatory.
Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in communications public relations, or corporate affairs.
Demonstrated experience in:
Developing and executing communication strategies
Media relations and stakeholder engagement
Crisis communication and reputation management
Preferred Experience
Experience in the agriculture, regulatory, media, public policy, or development sector.
Experience engaging with government institutions, industry bodies, and development partners.
Proven ability to manage communication in complex, high-stakes or sensitive environments.
Business & Industry Understanding
Strong understanding of multimedia content development and data-driven storytelling.
Knowledge of media relations and public relations best practices.
Ability to navigate misinformation and build public trust.
Familiarity with digital tools, emerging technologies, and AI in communication.
Understanding of regulatory and advocacy environments is an added advantage.
Functional Skills
Excellent verbal communication, including public speaking, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement.
Strong writing, editing, and messaging skills.
Strategic thinking and project management capabilities.
Multimedia content development skills.
Technical & Digital Skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
Experience with social media management and digital communication tools.
Basic graphic design skills (Canva; Adobe Creative Suite is an added advantage).
Knowledge of SEO and Google Analytics is an added advantage.
Photography and visual storytelling skills.
Behavioural Competencies
Strong leadership and decision-making ability.
Excellent planning and organizational skills.
High level of professionalism and integrity.
Strong networking and relationship-building skills.
Effective problem-solving and conflict resolution skills.