Communications Officer (90-100%) At TRIAL International

Founded in 2002, TRIAL International is a non-governmental organization fighting impunity for international crimes and supporting victims in their quest for justice. The organization takes an innovative approach to the law, paving the way to justice for survivors of unspeakable suffering. With offices in Geneva, Bosnia-Herzegovina and the Democratic Republic of Congo, TRIAL International provides legal assistance, conducts investigations, litigates cases, develops local capacity, and pushes the human rights agenda forward. Its International Investigations and Litigation (IIL) Program uses legal tools such as the principle of universal jurisdiction and extraterritorial statutes to fill the accountability gap whenever States having territorial jurisdiction do not prosecute individuals and companies suspected of having committed or being complicit in international crimes.

The IIL Program of TRIAL International is seeking applicants for the position of Communications Officer to design and lead communication strategies and outreach activities that help to increase the visibility of the IIL Program’s litigation efforts and to promote the fight against impunity for international crimes, including through the use of universal jurisdiction. The Communications Officer will be based in Geneva and will report to the IIL Program Manager.

YOUR MISSION

• Strategy: To participate in the development and implementation of the communication strategy of the IIL Program, including communication plans for each specific case.
• Media relations: To write and disseminate press releases and other relevant texts; to develop and maintain a network of journalists; and to engage proactively with press, radio and TV to strengthen the visibility and impact of the Program.
• Digital communication: To generate digital content showcasing the activities of the IIL Program and publish it on the organization’s digital channels; to work with the Digital Communications Officer to create digital tools such as visuals and video clips that explain and promote the activities of the Program.
• Institutional communication: To coordinate the production of the Universal Jurisdiction Annual Review (UJAR), including editing, graphic design, and dissemination; to maintain and update the upcoming interactive universal jurisdiction cases map; and to publish articles related to IIL cases, the UJAR, and other activities on the organization’s website.
• Various: To lead in conceptualizing and organizing launch events, webinars, and press conferences to promote the Program’s publications and activities; to contribute to monitoring of trials and outreach efforts targeting affected communities; to support and train the legal team in media engagement; and more generally to assist the organisation with tasks aimed at enhancing its visibility and impact when required.

YOUR PROFILE

• A bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, or another relevant field. An advanced degree is desirable;
• A minimum of 5 years of professional experience in communications, journalism, public relations, and/or editing with some substantive expertise in human rights, international justice and/or criminal justice;
• Excellent drafting skills, with the ability to tailor complex information to the appropriate audience and to present them in a succinct and compelling manner;
• Strong identification with TRIAL International’s mission and demonstrated interest in human rights, international justice and/or criminal justice;
• Knowledge and understanding of Swiss and international media landscape;
• Excellent attention to detail;
• Professional experience in an NGO strongly desirable;
• Excellent organizational skills, ability to set clear priorities and to identify and handle unforeseen developments calling for public communication;
• Demonstrated interpersonal and communication skills; ability to work in a diverse and multicultural environment;
• Proficiency in English and French; working knowledge of German is an asset;
• Swiss or EU/EFTA nationals or in possession of a valid work permit in Switzerland.

WHAT WE OFFER

An exciting and varied opportunity in a dynamic organization in full development and within a committed and motivated team.

• Reporting to: IIL Program Manager
• Workplace: Geneva, Switzerland
• Workload: 90% or 100% (36 or 40h/week)
• Type of contract: Permanent contract
• Start date: 1 July 2023 (or upon agreement)

The conditions of employment offered correspond to those in force in the NGO sector, with 5 weeks annual leave and flexible working arrangements, including possibility for remote working.