Communications Officer – (Fixed Term Contract 6 Months - WITS VIDA)

SUMMARY:
Background:

• The Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Analytics (VIDA) Research Unit of the University of the Witwatersrand, formerly RMPRU (Respiratory and Meningeal Pathogens Research Unit) has for over 20 years conducted numerous studies to assess the burden of and prevent vaccine-preventable diseases (VPD)
• Current studies and projects include infant rotavirus and BCG trials

POSITION INFO:
Main purpose of the job:

• The Communication Officer will be responsible for implementing and delivering communications content for multiple VIDA projects
• They will support the Head: Divisional Shared Services Management in driving impact across all the unit's channels, writing impactful communications, generating impactful storytelling projects and managing day to-day social media channels, the VIDA websites, external and internal communications

• VIDA - Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital

• Develop and execute social media strategies aligned with VIDA's goals
• Create, curate, and manage published content (images, video, written) on social platforms
• Highlight collaborator content such as Wits FHS activities, BMGF, CHAMPS and others
• Monitor social media trends and audience engagement metrics and incorporate into reporting requirements
• Respond to queries on social media from followers/potential participants

• Design and produce digital content, including infographics, presentations, videos and promotional materials
• Use design software (e.g. Adobe Creative Suite/Canva) to create visually appealing content

• Plan, coordinate, and execute internal and external events such as conferences, workshops, and webinars
• Collaborate with stakeholders to ensure event success

• Draft and Disseminate Communication
• Create newsletters and other materials to keep stakeholders informed
• Ensure consistent messaging across the unit and to collaborators, funders, and participants
• Develop Communication Strategies: Formulate internal and external strategies to enhance engagement and clarity
• Prepare and Edit Scientific Documents: Write and edit scientific reports, research summaries, and publications
• Collaborate with Researchers: Translate complex scientific data into accessible content for diverse audiences
• Manage SharePoint Site: Maintain and organise the SharePoint site to facilitate effective information sharing and support project management and collaboration
• Provide Communication Support: Assist in drafting and disseminating program-related communications for the
• CHAMPS (Child Health and Mortality Prevention Surveillance) programme
• Organise Communication Workshops: Conduct workshops to enhance staff communication skills
• Develop Training Materials: Create resources to support communication skill development within the organisation
• Generate reports to funders and internal management on the communications portfolio for various projects

• Maintain and update VIDA and projects led by VIDA websites with current and relevant content
• Monitor website traffic and performance using analytics tools

• Take ownership and accountability for tasks and demonstrate effective self-management
• Follow through to ensure that quality and productivity standards of own work are consistently and accurately maintained
• Maintain a positive attitude and respond openly to feedback
• Take ownership for driving own career development by participating in on-going training and development activities such as workshops, forums, conferences etc
• Apply knowledge of the organisational systems, structures, policies and procedures to achieve results
• Provide appropriate resolution for tasks or deadlines not met
• Communicate on strategic goals for the portfolio as well as progress
• Support and drive the organisation’s core values

• Marketing and Communications qualification (Degree/3 year Diploma with Graphic Design)

• 5 years’ experience in Marketing and Design

• Advanced writing skills
• Experience within the NGO or an Academic Institute
• A creative, dynamic, diligent and focused individual, with exceptional writing skills and excellent attention to detail. Ability to work in a diverse team
• Demonstrable experience in digital communications and a passion for science, health and digital communications

• Only if you meet the minimum job requirements and experience as mentioned above, you may submit a detailed updated CV
• Please Apply Online and complete your registration via our website to enable and protect you as a candidate, and to accept the new POPIA terms and conditions
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• However, you may remove your profile from AJ PERSONNEL when you are no longer in the job market
• Please take note that the applicants who do not adhere to the above criteria will not be considered for the respective position
• Wits Health Consortium will only respond to shortlisted candidates
• Candidates who have not been contacted within two weeks of the closing date can consider their applications to be unsuccessful
• Closing date: 15 December 2025
• Note: No CV will be accepted after the closing date

• WHC, in accordance with its Employment Equity goals and plan, will give preference to suitable applicants from designated groups as defined in the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 and subsequent amendments thereto
• AJ Personnel is only responsible for advertising and the response handling on behalf of their client Wits Health Consortium
• AJ Personnel does not have any salary or other information regarding the position