The Sexual Violence Research Initiative (SVRI) is the largest global network for advancing research on violence against women (VAW), violence against children (VAC) and other forms of violence driven by gender inequality, with a focus on low- and middle-income countries. SVRI is seeking a Communications Manager to join its team on a full-time basis to work towards an integrated, coherent, innovative and consistent communications strategy for research dissemination and knowledge exchange across its four pillars. Key tasks include developing creative ways to showcase SVRI's work and impact, and supporting the Global Advocacy Director in translating evidence to promote uptake and build influence in the field.
Scope of work: manage all communications activities of SVRI projects, including dissemination of internal and external research, capacity building initiatives, courses, online events and grant partners' achievements; manage SVRI's three main channels (social media, website and the weekly SVRI Update newsletter), including crafting posts, designing images and tiles, monitoring engagement, uploading website content, supervising design/navigation/accessibility and applying SEO, and implementing email marketing strategies; develop and package multimedia materials across the four pillars (building evidence, capacity strengthening, promoting partnerships, influencing change); advise on the communications strategy of specific projects, specifying channels, key audiences and dissemination methods; maintain visual, branding and format consistency across all outputs including reports, layouts, blogs, podcast notes, reels, images and videos; and develop a monitoring and evaluation plan for all channels linked to the overall SVRI MEL system.
Requirements: degree or advanced degree in communications, journalism, public relations, marketing or similar; advanced degree and/or experience in VAW/VAC research, public health, development or social sciences; 5 to 10+ years of relevant communications and/or PR experience; good understanding of research on violence against women and children and a track record of global engagement in the field; ability to foster a feminist approach; excellent understanding of ethical issues in communications, storytelling and research; excellent writing skills; good design and presentation skills; expertise across social media platforms; experience with knowledge translation of peer-reviewed content; excellent IT and database skills; expertise with CMS systems such as WordPress; experience with Canva, video editing, web design and Mailchimp; experience working in a multicultural, remote team; and knowledge of trauma-informed, survivor-centred communications. Fluency in English is required; other languages highly desirable.
Salary: annual earnings range from USD 35,000 to 40,000 depending on experience and expertise; applicants based in South Africa will be paid in South African Rand. Location: the position can be remote, with required travel to in-person meetings; office space is available in Pretoria for South African-based applicants.
Closing date: 13 September 2026
HOW TO APPLY:
Applications close on 13 September 2026 at 23:59h (South Africa time). To apply for the post, you need to apply through Workable (https://apply.workable.com/svri/j/1DAD0A1A47) and submit: a letter of application stating the skills and approach you would bring to the role; your CV/resume in English, including three referees; and a portfolio of your most important work that best aligns with SVRI, including at least one campaign, 4-5 social media posts and designs, 1-2 press releases or other writing samples. Videos, podcast coordination or production, and web design examples are also welcome. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.