Communication and Networking Officer
Dhaka, Bangladesh

WHO WE ARE

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) works worldwide to provide protection and humanitarian assistance to people affected by conflict and armed violence. We take action in response to emergencies and at the same time promote respect for international humanitarian law. We are an independent and neutral organization, and our mandate stems essentially from the Geneva Conventions of 1949. We work closely with National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and with their International Federation in order to ensure a concerted, rational and rapid humanitarian response to the needs of the victims of armed conflict or any other situation of internal violence. We direct and coordinate the international activities conducted in these situations.

THE PURPOSE

The Communication and Networking Officer combines communication and networking functions for the ICRC:

  • As the focal point for public and operational communication activities, s/he contributes to designing, planning, and implementing communication projects and activities towards building the necessary understanding, acceptance, and support for the ICRC among key stakeholders. S/he also contributes to enhancing the understanding of ICRC’s mandate and operations through public channels, generates content for ICRC’s Communication platforms, assists in implementing the digital communication strategies and creating opportunities for public engagement.
  • In her/his networking capacity, s/he helps to develops a network of contacts with all groups of interest aimed at facilitating the operations of the ICRC and increasing awareness and acceptance of the ICRC among stakeholders both in Dhaka and across the country.
  • Additionally, s/he provides technical support to Bangladesh Red Crescent Society’s communication approach through capacity building sessions, budget formulation, communication’s planning and implementation.

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Communication & Environmental Scanning

  1. Contributes to defining communication strategies and plans of action for ICRC in Bangladesh.
  2. Implements activities and develops tools, content for operational, public & digital communication, community engagement, promotion of international humanitarian law (IHL).
  3. Implements and maintains an efficient information/environment scanning mechanism, media monitoring and analysis to enhance the understanding of the operational context.
  4. Follows political, security, military, and humanitarian developments, as well as other issues relevant to the ICRC’s operations.
  5. Analyses, interprets, translates, prepares reports and organizes events and workshops.

2. Networking and humanitarian diplomacy

  1. Analyses, maps, maintains and builds stakeholders relevant to the ICRC (i.e., administrative, religious circles, academics, community leaders, political and civil society, including the media landscape).
  2. Contributes to the development and implementation of a Networking plan of action for overall Networking/Humanitarian Diplomacy activities.
  3. Deepens institutional dialogue with the stakeholders and their circles by organizing tailored events and facilitating high-level meetings.
  4. Enhances understanding, awareness, and acceptance of the ICRC among relevant stakeholders in close coordination with the Communication department.
  5. Organizes sessions/workshops and participates in the dialogue on International Humanitarian Law (IHL) with academic and religious institutions.

3. Capacity strengthening of the National society

  1. Supports the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRCS) to build its capacity in public communication.
  2. Advises in the conception and elaboration of communication tools needed by the BDRCS while supporting it to use those tools and approaches to increase its visibility through online and offline media.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

  • Minimum 4 years of work experience in the relevant field (Networking / Communication)
  • University degree or equivalent in a relevant field such as communications, political science, international relations or journalism.
  • Fluent spoken and written English and Bangla
  • Computer skills (proficiency in MS Office); advanced knowledge of digital communication tools.
  • Sound knowledge of the political, social and media environment in the country.
  • Proven ability to build and maintain a network, in-depth personal knowledge of the specific population covered.
  • Capacity to represent the ICRC and its objectives in dealing with challenging contacts.
  • Experience with the ICRC is an asset.
  • IHL knowledge will be considered as an asset.

WHAT WE OFFER

  • Rewarding work in a humanitarian and multicultural environment.
  • Competitive employment package with medical insurance.
  • In-house training opportunities for personal development.

HOW TO APPLY

Ready to apply? Please apply through this BDJOBS link.

  • Job Location: Dhaka
  • Type of contract: Fixed Term Contract (1 year, Renewable)
  • Desired starting date: As soon as possible

Application deadline: 13th April 2025

The ICRC values diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive working environment. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates. Female, minorities, and candidates with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further process.

At the ICRC, we value impact, collaboration, respect, and compassion. We seek candidates who demonstrate behaviors based on these shared values. For more information on the ICRC values, please visit this page.