Communications and External Affairs Officer

About the Role

The World Bank Group (WBG) is a prominent global partnership comprising five institutions aimed at eradicating extreme poverty, fostering shared prosperity, and supporting sustainable development worldwide. Operating with 189 member countries and over 120 offices, WBG engages with public and private partners through funding, knowledge-sharing, and innovative approaches to address pressing global development challenges.

The Communications and External Affairs (CER) Department facilitates financial and political backing for the Bank Group, bolsters its reputation, and supports country-focused operational teams. CER oversees corporate communications, stakeholder engagement across media, civil society, donors, private sector, and international organizations, and manages strategic communications within WBG regions and units.

Positioned within the Western and Central Africa Communications and External Affairs team and based in Accra, Ghana, the Communications and External Affairs Officer will spearhead stakeholder engagement, communications, advocacy, and reputational risk management to promote the World Bank Group's objectives in Ghana. The role encompasses aligning efforts across the Ghana Country Management Unit (CMU) and collaborating with IBRD, IDA, IFC, and MIGA to uphold a cohesive One Bank approach.

Key Responsibilities

• Forge and nurture trusted relations with government entities, development partners, private sector actors, media, academia, youth groups, and civil society to enhance understanding of WBG's mission and value.
• Lead strategic partnerships to maximize program impact.
• Maintain a comprehensive map of key influencers to propagate WBG priorities and achievements.
• Advise senior leadership and operational teams on effective stakeholder engagement tactics promoting transparency and ownership.
• Facilitate two-way communication by incorporating field insights into planning and messaging.
• Coordinate media relations and enhance outreach within Ghana’s CMU.
• Craft and execute communication strategies showcasing WBG’s integrated solutions linking public reforms, private capital, and knowledge services to highlight program results and attract future involvement.
• Highlight regional narratives emphasizing resilience, private-sector growth, and integration through success stories and thought leadership materials.
• Assist in regional and global advocacy by adapting messages and coordinating campaigns to engage client and partner networks.
• Produce and refine diverse communication content, including press releases, speeches, social media posts, ensuring clarity and resonance.
• Monitor socio-political and media developments to identify risks or opportunities impacting WBG’s engagement and reputation.
• Provide timely analysis and advice to leadership on sensitive issues and aid proactive risk mitigation strategies.
• Collaborate with regional and corporate teams to ensure consistent institutional messaging on reputational matters.
• Participate actively in the regional communications network to align on priorities and drive innovative communication approaches, such as digital storytelling, influencer engagement, and data-driven content.
• Engage in professional development and contribute to WBG-wide communication initiatives.

Qualifications and Experience

• Master’s degree or equivalent with a minimum of five years of experience in communication, journalism, public affairs, international affairs, or related fields.
• Proven experience working in international settings with an understanding of political and economic development issues.
• Familiarity with Ghana’s government, public institutions, private sector, civil society, and relevant stakeholders at national and subnational levels.
• Insight into WBG operations and current developmental trends, with the ability to recognize communication and reputational risks.
• Strong political awareness and diplomatic skills to manage sensitive interactions, cultivate effective relationships, and liaise with senior executives.
• Excellent command of English; proficiency in additional international or local languages is advantageous.
• Ability to author clear, persuasive communication materials tailored to diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated organizational skills to handle multiple tasks, act proactively, and meet deadlines under pressure.
• Team-oriented mindset with cultural sensitivity and strong interpersonal abilities.

Organizational Values and Culture

• A sense of urgency in responding to stakeholder needs.
• Encouragement of thoughtful risk-taking to create impact.
• Empowerment of individuals with accountability for results.

Additional Information

The World Bank Group offers extensive benefits including retirement plans, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave inclusive of parental leave. It prides itself on being an equal opportunity employer fostering diversity and inclusion without discrimination based on gender, identity, religion, ethnicity, or disability.