The International AIDS Society (IAS) is the world’s largest association of HIV professionals, with members from more than 180 countries. IAS members work on all fronts of the global response to AIDS, and include researchers, clinicians, policy and programme planners and public health and community practitioners on the frontlines of the epidemic. More information on IAS can be found at www.iasociety.org.

Details of Employment:
The Communications Officer position will be based in Geneva, Switzerland and report to the Senior Manager, Communications. The position is full-time and to start as soon as possible up to 3 months.

Purpose of the Position:
The incumbent will be responsible for writing, editing, editorial coordination and supporting all aspects of the IAS communications needs.

Main Responsibilities:
– Write and edit regular blogs, articles, media releases, and advisories;
– Write and edit media materials such as fact sheets, scientific highlights, publications, talking points, etc.;
– Manage editorial coordination and prioritization across all IAS departments and programmes;
– Project manage and coordinate all communications activities for the department in order to meet – timelines within a smooth review process;
– Identify key communications opportunities and moments;
– Manage media monitoring and reporting to identify opportunities, track communications impact, and support overall brand management of IAS
– Coordinate the production process for publications and other communications material, including ongoing liaison with the design agency,
– Develop and manage partner agreements with external partners and suppliers including marketing and advertising outreach;
– Support media relations, contacts management, outreach lists and materials, including the media registration process for IAS conferences;
– Manage media logistics onsite at annual IAS conferences, including volunteer management;
– Support the organization of meetings and other events (media briefings, interviews, etc.)
– Provide administrative support for budget management and travel bookings.
– Perform any additional tasks and/or projects requested by the Senior Manager, Communications.

Academic Qualifications:
– Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public policy, public health or related field;
– Master’s degree or equivalent experience is a plus.

Work Experience:
– A minimum of 3 to 5 years professional experience working in communications; preferably working in not-for-profit and/or global public health;
– Demonstrated experience in the field of international communications.

Skills/Competencies:
– Excellent written and verbal communications skills; a demonstrated ability to create persuasive and clear communications in all forms, traditional and digital, and to varying audiences;
– Strong organizational skills, coordination skills and ability to multi-task;
– Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously with meticulous attention to detail and tight deadlines;
– Proven background in communications and public relations;
– Knowledge of relevant international and domestic broadcast media, a keen sense of what makes and shapes the news, and the ability to make well-informed decisions in targeting appropriate media outlets and reporters;
– Stress tolerance and resilience, ability to work under pressure with multiple and shifting priorities;
– High-energy self-starter who can operate with minimal supervision but also knows when to ask for counsel;
– Ability to work well as a team member, as well as work independently;
– Technical and scientific knowledge of HIV/AIDS is a strong plus.

Languages:
– Native English or full professional proficiency is a requirement;
– Knowledge of other languages is an asset.

How to apply:
Interested and qualified candidates should send their CV and a cover letter, in English and by email only, to recruitment@iasociety.org by Monday 20 February 2017. Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Only candidates from Switzerland, from an EU/EFTA country or candidates already having a valid Swiss working permit will be considered. The IAS is committed to recruiting and sustaining a skilled, effective, diverse and gender-balanced secretariat, and to the greater involvement of people living with HIV (GIPA) in all aspects of its work. People living with HIV are strongly encouraged to apply.