ThaiNGO

Mekong Institute

Vacancy Announcement

Communication Officer

Mekong Institute

MI is an intergovernmental organization that contributes to regional cooperation and integration through capacity development, dialogue, and advocacy for sustainable socioeconomic development and poverty alleviation in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS).

Founded and represented by the Mekong countries (Cambodia, P. R. China, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam), MI aligns its strategies with the core tenets of the GMS Cooperation Program Strategic Framework 2030, ASEAN Economic Community, and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

MI supports these frameworks through the implementation of projects across the areas of Agricultural Development and Commercialization (ADC), Trade and Investment Facilitation (TIF), and Sustainable Energy and Environment (SEE) while addressing issues of social inclusion and vulnerability, digital economy and innovation, and labor mobility. This comprehensive approach cements holistic and sustainable developmental impacts in the subregion and beyond.

The Regional Public Health Laboratory Network (RPHLN)

The network was established in 2019 to address the absence of a regional public health laboratory network in the South-East Asia region as the ASEAN Plus Three of Laboratory Network anchored in the ASEAN platform was abolished. The aim was to provide support in strengthening of national laboratory systems of GHSA Member Countries in the Asia and Pacific region for the timely detection of pathogens with potential infectious disease outbreaks and for improved routine diagnostics services.  Current membership includes 14 member states, namely Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Viet Nam, Nepal, Timor-Leste, Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Pakistan.  RPHL Network Secretariat is located at the National Institute of Public Health, Department of Medical Sciences, Ministry of Public Health, Thailand.

It has served a valuable role in connecting laboratory professionals and partners together, sharing timely information and key technical issues, maximizing resources and synergy efforts, accelerating countries’ efforts in achieving IHR 2005 implementation, and progressing toward the Global Health Security Agenda 2024 Target. The network will be providing technical assistance to ensure an effective implementation under this grant.

Key Roles

The Grant Cycle 7 Integrated Laboratory Systems Strengthening Strategic Initiative (Lab SI) has allocated US$ 3.25 million [2024-2026] to support integrated laboratory systems strengthening of 14 RPHL Network members in the Asia-Pacific.

Position Description

Reporting to the Regional Program Manager, the Communication Officer is responsible for communication activities of RPHL Network, maintenance of RPHL Network Website, updating membership and lab expert roster, and implementation of knowledge sharing activities.

Primary Working Relationships

Internal Communication and Relationship: Regional Program Director, RPHL network, staff, and MI Finance and Operations Department (Finance Manager, Director of Finance and Operations, and General Service Supervisor).

External communication and relationship: DMSC, RPHL Network members & Concerned stakeholders as required

Main deliverables, Responsibilities, and Tasks

Key deliverables

• Communication strategies of RPHL Network
• Maintain membership and roster of lab experts
• High-quality communication and publication documents that are accurate, interesting, and informative, and follow MI, RPHL, and Global Fund branding and graphic guidelines;
• Communication resources for all major RPHL events;
• Quality control of branding and creativity in communication outputs; and
• Strong networks with media and external partners to support maintaining MI’s external and RPHL profile.

Main responsibilities and tasks

• Administer and maintain the RPHL IT infrastructure, including servers, networks, and security systems;
• Implement Q&A Forum and other sharing platform of the Network
• Update and maintain RPHL Network website
• Organize video conferences of RPHL Network;
• Organize a webinar series of RPHL Network [Online Market Place];
• Write, proof-read and edit press releases, web releases, newsletters, speeches, corporate reports, and other documents for public relations;
• Provide input in the development of project/program proposals, documents, and other business development materials based on the inputs from different MI departments;
• Provide support in organizing, facilitating, and documenting activities, meetings, and events, utilizing both online and onsite platforms. Ensure seamless execution and capture valuable insights and outcomes.
• Contribute to the layout design of major publications, documents, and materials;
• Manage the creative conceptualization of promotional materials such as brochures, booklets, and exhibit materials;
• Assist in implementing RPHL Network’s branding and marketing strategic plans;
• Establish and maintain media relations and contacts and regularly disseminate press releases to local and national media outlets to promote RPHL and Global Fund visibility; and
• Support for development of communication strategy of RPHL Network
• Any other reasonable task requested by management.

Required Qualifications, Skills, and Experience

Essential

• Master's or Bachelor's degree or higher in information technology, communications, marketing, or another relevant field;
• Minimum of five years of practical experience in knowledge, IT and communication systems and management;
• Solid knowledge of database software and IT hardware including application and troubleshooting;
• Proficient user of all Microsoft Office applications, and proficient user of a range of IT and Audio-Visual hardware;
• Proven ability to effectively train and explain IT concepts to non-IT literate colleagues;
• Proven ability in the use of level English language skills in written form;
• Proven knowledge of graphic design techniques and software applications;
• Proven ability to work in a team and coordinate with others;

Desirable

• Ability to speak any of the RPHL Network members languages

If you possess the skills, expertise, and experience to thrive in this role and are passionate about promoting equitable and inclusive economic growth in the GMS, we invite you to submit your CV and cover letter to recruitment@mekonginstitute.org by September 12, 2024, with the subject line "Communication Officer for RPHL Project".

Only candidates who successfully advance to the next stage will receive a response.