ABOUT WITNESS

WITNESS is a global organization that helps people everywhere harness the power of video and technology to tell their stories, document the truth, and defend human rights. With growing threats to human rights and its defenders, along with the proliferation of manipulated media, how can we ensure that critical voices are heard, amplified, and protected? How do we establish the authenticity of video when the truth is constantly in question? And how can we proactively adapt to the transformative shifts in communication brought by AI?

In this volatile landscape, WITNESS deploys its global team of over 50 people, spread across five continents, to ensure that technology works for, not against, human rights.

Leveraging our signature combination of grassroots and systems-level work, WITNESS directly supports thousands of frontline human rights defenders and community media partners with the training, skills and tools to tell their stories and strengthen the credibility of their video documentation. We equip millions of activists in social justice movements with tailored guidance and resources to help them defend human rights in an increasingly complex digital world. We also shape technology development, policy and infrastructure at the systems level to ensure that billions worldwide benefit from technologies that will minimize harm and maximize opportunity for good.

PRIMARY FUNCTION/PURPOSE

At WITNESS, we understand that developing robust learning resources and trainings is just the beginning – it's equally important to ensure that this information reaches those that need it the most.

That's why we are seeking an Associate Director of Communications & Engagement to provide strategic oversight and innovative leadership for WITNESS' communication and digital engagement strategies. This position will play a critical role in ensuring we reach millions with our guidance, empowering activists and groups around the world to use video and technology effectively in their human rights work, and enhancing the credibility of their video documentation. They will also collaborate to ensure the effectiveness of our institutional communications for fundraising and development, as well as to ensure that our media advocacy efforts contribute to our programmatic goals.

Reporting to our Global Programs Director, the Associate Director will manage and collaborate with a team of communications specialists located around the world. Additionally, this role will lead a transformative shift in our current approach to communications, optimizing systems, workflows, and practices to enhance our impact and reach.

We are looking for someone with extensive experience in communications strategy, team leadership, and cross-functional collaboration. They will be highly organized, proactive, and adept at managing diverse tasks and shifting priorities in a dynamic, global, and remote work environment. A strong interest in the intersection of human rights and technology, along with an understanding of how technological shifts can impact rights globally, will also be important for success in this role.

Preferred Locations: Between GMT-5 (e.g. Bogotá, New York) and GMT-3 (e.g. São Paulo).

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS: 16 March 2025

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Management & Strategy

• Lead the development and implementation of our Communications & Engagement strategy, ensuring alignment with programmatic and institutional goals and priorities.
• Oversee the monitoring, evaluation, and reporting of our communications efforts for both internal and external stakeholders, ensuring data-driven decision-making.
• Directly manage a team of four specialists, including setting individual objectives, providing regular feedback, and conducting performance reviews.
• Provide strategic guidance to six Regional Communications Coordinators, equipping them with the tools and direction needed for localized implementation of global strategies.
• Continuously assess and optimize workflows to improve efficiency and impact.
• Manage the Communications & Engagement budget, ensuring resources are used effectively and cost-efficiently.
• Collaborate with programmatic leadership, including other Associate Directors, to contribute to key programmatic discussions and decision-making.
• Work closely with Core Teams (e.g. Fundraising, Human Resources and Finance) to ensure alignment and promote cross-functional collaboration.
• Stay updated on industry trends and emerging technologies, integrating best practices to enhance our communications efforts.
• Foster a culture of continuous learning by sharing communication best practices and lessons learned across the organization.

Institutional Communications

• Ensure WITNESS’ website is current, user-friendly, and aligned with our institutional goals and priorities.
• Oversee the creation of key messages and institutional communication materials, such as Annual Reports, newsletters, and institutional videos, in close collaboration with the Director of Fundraising
• Collaborate with our Fundraising team to develop and optimize donor communication strategies (e.g. impact reports) that strengthen relationships and effectively articulate our work.
• Provide communication expertise to the Fundraising team, especially in crafting compelling content for funding proposals and donor outreach.

Press & Media Relations

• Oversee the development and implementation of our media outreach in the U.S. and the European Union, in collaboration with our Press Manager, helping advance our advocacy work and positioning WITNESS as a prominent voice at the intersection of human rights and technology in these key geographies.
• Leverage our media presence to enhance our institutional reputation and strengthen relationships.
• Provide strategic guidance to regional teams in managing media inquiries and seizing one-off media opportunities that align with and support local tactics.

Social Media

• Oversee the development and implementation of a cohesive social media strategy across multiple platforms and languages, ensuring that our content is consistent, engaging, and relevant.
• Provide editorial direction to the development of our social media content.
• Guide the development and implementation of strategic distribution plans, using social media to expand the reach of the learning resources developed by WITNESS.
• Regularly review social media metrics to refine strategies and increase audience engagement.

Branding & Creative

• Oversee the development, implementation, and regular updating of WITNESS's branding and visual identity guidelines to align with the organization's evolving needs and vision.
• Ensure a cohesive and impactful visual identity across all platforms and communication products.
• Guide the creative team in adopting innovative design and video practices, leveraging new tools to enhance storytelling and audience engagement.

Special Projects

• Lead special projects as needed, such as website redesigns, visual identity refreshes, or the development of new communication initiatives.

From time to time, the role will require completing additional duties commensurate with the level of this position, as needed and requested by its manager.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

• 8+ years of experience in a senior communications role, ideally with a human rights focus, with a proven track record in leadership and managing cross-functional teams. Experience in an international, multicultural environment is highly preferred.
• Exceptional written and spoken English skills; proficiency in additional languages is a plus. Native English is not required.
• Proven experience in developing, implementing, and monitoring communications plans and strategies.
• Strong written communication skills, with the ability to craft clear, persuasive messages across various channels and audiences, and edit content to ensure clarity, tone, and alignment with the organization’s voice.
• Experience managing video content creation with a focus on strategic social media distribution to boost engagement and extend reach.
• Strong organizational and leadership skills to manage complex projects and oversee multiple priorities across regions and teams.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to foster collaboration within cross-functional teams and navigate multicultural environments with sensitivity and respect.
• In-depth knowledge of communications & engagement trends and best practices.
• A strong interest in how technology impacts human rights, with familiarity with emerging technologies such as AI.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, with the ability to work independently and proactively in a dynamic environment.
• Meticulous attention to detail.
• High level of computer literacy and proficiency with digital communication and collaboration tools, including Google Workspace, Zoom, Notion, and Slack.
• Flexibility to accommodate early morning or late evening calls, based on timezone differences.
• A background in and/or passion for human rights, a strong commitment to social justice and alignment with WITNESS' values and mission.
• Ability to travel at least 3-5 times a year, including international travel.

Desirable

• Experienced in project management, media relations, and strategic communications within the non-profit and technology sectors.
• Possesses a strong network of media contacts in human rights and technology, particularly in the U.S. and EU.
• Skilled in social media analytics, advertising, and optimization, with hands-on experience using CMS, email marketing, social media management, and PR tools.