American Red Cross
As part of the world’s largest humanitarian network, the American Red Cross is dedicated to helping people in need throughout the United States and around the globe. We depend on the many generous contributions of time, blood and money from the American public to support our lifesaving services and programs.
Based in Budapest, Hungary, the Communications delegate serves as the Public Affairs representative and subject matter expert for American Red Cross’s response and recovery projects related to the Ukraine crisis. The delegate supports the mission of the Red Cross by creating and implementing a communication strategy; handling media requests; producing stories and audio-visual materials; and providing communications counsel to program leadership and field staff. This position reports to the Communications Lead for International Services (ISD) and Service to the Armed Forces (SAF) based in Washington, D.C. This position works in concert with the American Red Cross Ukraine Field Representative based in Budapest, Hungary.
This is a full-time position for a minimum of 365 days with the possibility of extension.
Responsibilities
- Provides technical leadership to oversee the American Red Cross’s external communications activities in Ukraine and neighboring countries.
- Develop and implement a communication strategy, alongside the Public Affairs team and the Field Representative, for the Red Cross’s ongoing response to the Ukraine crisis.
- Serve as on-the-record spokesperson for US media outlets, in partnership with the American Red Cross media team.
- Travel to various cities and countries in the region to create content for external channels and donor stewardship needs. Accompany the Field Representative on travel when appropriate.
- Generate and refine communications materials that enhance field representation and coordination.
- Produce materials about how donations are helping people impacted by the Ukraine crisis.
- Collaborate with the American Red Cross social engagement team to create engaging content and support organizational social media efforts.
- Collaborate with the Field Representative and American Red Cross media relations team to identify and pitch stories; interact with US media outlets and embeds, and answer questions from US media as directed by NHQ.
- Oversee the writing and production of compelling communication materials including press releases, key messages, stories, talking points, FAQs, media statements and other items for consumption by a variety of internal and external audiences.
- Collaborate with corporate support departments including Fundraising, Marketing and Government Relations to ensure unified messaging and information.
- Liaise and collaborate with international Red Cross teams and other national societies on joint communications endeavors.
- Provide capacity-building support for Red Cross communications teams in Ukraine and neighboring countries.
- Build and maintain relationships with the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and American Red Cross stakeholders.
- Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Applicant must possess a four-year college degree (or equivalent experience) and have 3-5 years of experience in communications, journalism, marketing, public affairs or public relations.
- Exceptional written English is a must. Fluency in Ukrainian, Russian, or another relevant language is preferred.
- Professional experience in an international environment preferred.
- American Red Cross APAT training preferred.
- Experience with the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement or other international deployment experience preferred.
- Ability to work in high-pressure situations is essential.
- This position sometimes requires irregular or extended hours, including weekends, evenings, and travel, as needed.