Communications Officer, BFC

The garment, footwear, and travel goods and bag sectors remain at the heart of the Cambodian economy, formally employing more than 650,000 Cambodians, the majority of them women. It is estimated that each garment worker supports another three to four family members; two million Cambodians depend on the garment sector for their livelihoods.

Better Factories Cambodia (BFC) programme started operating in Cambodia in 2001. BFC is a partnership between the International Labour Organization and the International Finance Corporation that began conducting independent assessments of working conditions in Cambodian apparel factories in 2001. BFC currently assesses working conditions against ILO core international labour standards and Cambodian labour law in around 520 factories employing approximately 540,000 workers.

Since the start of the programme, BFC has aimed to improve working conditions and productivity in the Cambodian garment and footwear sector, collaborating at multiple levels of the supply chain to create sustainable solutions for all. In doing so, the programme aims to achieve improved worker health and wellbeing, as well as a knock-on effect on workers' families’ welfare, while at the same time strengthening the national industry via increased productivity and profitability in factories.

Improving labour standards in global supply chains, and ensuring that workers' rights and entitlements are protected help distribute the benefits of trade. BFC supports enterprises in implementing the ILO core international labour standards and Cambodian labour law. This helps enterprises compete in global markets where many buyers demand compliance with labour standards from their suppliers.

For the programme’s strategic phase 2019-22, BFC implements, in collaboration with the national constituents, a four year strategy that aims to transform the garment industry into a competitive industry where workers rights are being respected, employers and workers can solve problems through mature social dialogue, where institutions can intervene, advise and enforce where required and where brands support continuous improvement through stable order and fair prices.

The project has three components:
(1) Enterprise assessments against (a) ILO core international labour standards and Cambodian labour law and (b) quality and productivity;
(2) Enterprise advisory, and training services designed to support practical improvements in the factory; and
(3) Stakeholder engagement and sustainability.

For more information about the project see: betterwork.org/where-we-work/cambodia

Supervision
The position will work under the direct supervision of BFC’s Deputy Programme Manager.

In close collaboration with ILO and Better Work communications colleagues and the BFC Management Team, the Communications Officer will coordinate the development and implementation of BFC’s communication strategy so as to represent the programme, engage stakeholders and increase awareness about the programme’s expertise and achievements.

Public Communications
1. On own initiative, draft, edit and layout articles, correspondence, summary reports and briefs for media representatives and constituents as required and draw the attention of the supervi-sor to matters requiring immediate attention and/or follow up.
2. Manage the development and production of materials (e.g. collecting/producing photos, videos, reports, posters, briefing papers, brochures etc.), publications and promotional items for the programme, such as information kits and training brochures.
3. Monitor national media and contribute to the knowledge sharing of the programme. Respond to requests for information and general enquiries on the programme and related activities.
4. Produce and submit stories, photographs, documentation and/or reports as required by the programme.

Digital Media
5. Ensure the timely gathering and posting of programme information on the Better Work website.
6. Adhering to ILO guidelines and in close collaboration with ILO and Better Work communications colleagues, strengthen the visibility of the programme by increasing social media out-reach to stakeholders. 
7. Develop content on a regular basis for Better Work social media channels, including (where appropriate) Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and other media for targeted constituents and the public. 
8. Regularly assess the changing media landscape and its opportunities and potential benefits for the programme. Make suggestions to supervisor(s) for action.
9. Support internal communications within the programme.

Communications and Advocacy Activities
10. Together with the BFC Management Team and Better Work/ ILO communications colleagues, plan and manage communications-related advocacy activities and define key issues and messaging for such activities.
11. Collaborate with colleagues, including ILO Joint Project Office in Cambodia, in order to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the overall programme.
12. With administrative and logistical support from Finance and Administration unit, plan and organize promotional activities such as meetings and visits, seminars, exhibitions, press conferences and special events. Assist and coordinate knowledge capture of forums, summits and meetings by implementing feedback mechanisms, consolidating results, extracting lessons learned and repackaging content for distribution.

Administration
13. Take responsibility for sub-contracting arrangements and coordinate with external contract providers within areas of responsibility.
14. Participate in the organization and follow-up on external meeting invitations and draft related correspondence.
15. Provide other duties as required by the supervisor.

University degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, or related field.

At least two years’ of professional experience working in public relations, communications, social media, marketing communications and/or advocacy with a multilateral or international organization or governmental bodies.

English and Khmer. Knowledge of Chinese is an advantage.

1. Ability to prioritize work assignments, organize own schedule, perform routine work independently, meet deadlines and adapt to changing demands and multitasks.
2. Ability to lead on communications activities including determining priorities and planning work.
3. Accuracy and excellent attention to detail;
4. Excellent computer, oral and written communication skills in English and local languages; ability to write high quality and engaging features in English;
5. Proven ability to deal with internal and external clients and suppliers with tact and to provide information services;
6. Well-developed understanding of how social media works;
7. Experience with working on awareness raising campaigns;
8. Appreciation and understanding of principles of gender equality and how it can be promoted as part of the responsibilities of the post;
9. Capacity to liaise and network with a range of stakeholders including staff, donors, buyers, government officials, management, unions and NGOs;
10. Ability to cultivate and maintain strong contacts with project stakeholders;
11. Proficiency in communications-related computer software, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign as well a video editing software is an asset.
12. Ability to work in a multicultural environment, exhibiting gender-sensitive behaviour and attitudes.

Additional Information
Applicants can only attach 1 document to their application. This should include a cover letter, and must also include a 2-page competency statement addressing their claims against the required competencies. In doing this you should have a heading for each competency and explain in 2 -3 paragraphs to the selection committee how your skills and experience show that you meet this. Applicants who do not attach this statement will not be considered for interview.