Communications and Marketing Officer - Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programme - Department for Education Innovation at University of Pretoria/Universiteit van Pretoria

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop the marketing and communications strategy for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program in support of the overall strategic plan of the Mastercard Foundation in collaboration with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Public Affairs and Communications (PAC).
• Craft and disseminate compelling narratives that highlight the transformative impact of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program;
• Promote organisational events and ongoing communication with donors, partners, and staff;
• Develop and execute innovative marketing and communication strategies to promote the Scholars Program, focusing on its commitment to empowering Program’s targeted groups;
• Build and maintain a supportive community around the Program, emphasizing inclusivity and accessibility, particularly for the target demographic;
• Develop and implement strategies for crisis communication, ensuring the Program's reputation is upheld during challenging times;
• Monitor key metrics related to engagement, reach, and the overall public perception of the Program;
• Establish a process to track and collect longitudinal data and stories on the long-term impact of the Program from alumni;
• Ensure clear, consistent, and effective communication with internal and external stakeholders;
• Ensure the alignment of the marketing and communication plan aligns with the University of Pretoria’s Department of Institutional Advancement (DIA) plan;
• Create a brand strategy for the program that aligns with both UP and Mastercard Foundation ensuring consistency in all messaging and documentation.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Marketing, Communications, Journalism, or a related field 
• At least five years’ work experience related to the specified duties and responsibilities
• A valid Driver’s license 

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES (SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND BEHAVIOURAL ATTRIBUTES):

• Creative thinker with the ability to develop innovative and impactful communication strategies; 
• Strong writing, editing, and verbal communication skills;
• Proficiency in digital marketing tools and platforms, including social media management;
• Quick learner with an ability to keep abreast of the latest trends in the marketing/comms industry, and an ability to research and apply best practices;
• Ethical Considerations and Sensitivity;
• Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse team environment and engage with various stakeholders;
• Organizational ability;
• Meticulousness and responsibility;
• Capable of handling high stress while maintaining a positive attitude;
• Collaboration and Teamwork;
• Excellent interpersonal skills and empathy;
• Cultural Competency and Inclusivity;
• Ability to perform in real-time, high-stress environments, often requiring work after hours or on weekends;
• Ability to handle conflict and solve problems;
• Professional approach;
• Ability to balance and prioritize multiple tasks;
• Innovative way of thinking;
• Meeting of deadlines. 

ADDED ADVANTAGES AND PREFERENCES:

• Experience in marketing and communications, preferably in an educational or non-profit setting;
• Proficiency in digital marketing tools and platforms, including social media management; 
• Demonstrated commitment to supporting underprivileged and marginalized communities;
• Managing data, reporting, and exercising confidentiality (POPI Act);
• Experience in working with youth at the community level, particularly those from financially constrained backgrounds;
• Experience in working in other African countries and an understanding of the issues affecting youth across the continent;
• Experience in publishing tools such as Microsoft Publisher and Canva and any relevant tools;
• Familiarity with Adobe Photoshop and InDesign are desired and any relevant tools.