POLICY AND COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR JDF

Description

POLICY AND COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR

Organisation: JDF / Vanuatu Association of NGOs (VANGO)

Location: Port Vila, Vanuatu

Contract Term: 18-month contract with the possibility of renewal

Salary: Up to VUV 80,000 per fortnight, depending on qualifications and experience (excluding VNPF and other employment benefits)

Reporting To: Chief Executive Officer, VANGO

Position Overview
The Vanuatu Association of NGOs (VANGO) serves as the national umbrella organisation representing civil society groups throughout Vanuatu. VANGO works to strengthen collaboration between communities, civil society organisations, and government institutions while promoting inclusive participation in policy and decision-making processes.

VANGO is seeking an enthusiastic and capable Policy and Communications Coordinator to support its governance, research, advocacy, and communication initiatives. This position will play a leading role in a community-focused research project examining disaster recovery experiences while also contributing to broader policy development and public engagement activities. The successful applicant will supervise a Communications Intern and work closely with stakeholders across the country.

Key Duties and Responsibilities
• Organise and coordinate community consultations, research activities, and stakeholder engagement initiatives related to disaster recovery and other social or environmental policy issues.
• Ensure participation from diverse groups, including women, youth, people with disabilities, elderly citizens, and communities located in remote or vulnerable areas.
• Collect, analyse, and present research findings through reports and recommendations for government agencies, partners, and key stakeholders.
• Manage donor reporting requirements, including progress updates, project monitoring, and final reporting obligations.
• Develop and coordinate communication campaigns, awareness activities, and content for digital platforms and traditional media channels.
• Prepare policy papers, submissions, briefing documents, and advocacy materials for government ministries and relevant organisations.
• Support internal capacity-building efforts by assisting staff with policy engagement and communication skills development.
• Supervise and provide guidance to communications support personnel and interns.

Requirements
• Qualification in communications, policy studies, social sciences, development studies, public administration, or a related discipline, or equivalent practical experience.
• Proven experience in research, stakeholder engagement, policy analysis, communications, or community development.
• Ability to work effectively with NGOs, community groups, government agencies, and development partners.
• Strong written and spoken communication skills in both English and Bislama.
• Excellent planning, coordination, and time-management abilities.
• Commitment to inclusive development principles, including gender equality and disability inclusion.
• High level of professionalism, integrity, and adherence to ethical standards.
• Experience conducting community-based or participatory research projects.
• Previous experience in a coordination, supervisory, or team leadership role.
• Familiarity with civil society networks and NGO operations.
• Ability to communicate in French.
• Knowledge of Vanuatu's governance systems, policy environment, and civil society sector.

Application Process
Interested candidates should submit a current CV together with a cover letter demonstrating how they meet the position requirements.

Applications should be emailed to
Shirley.a@vango.vu
Close of Business, Monday 6 July
For further information regarding the position, applicants may contact Shirley on 7746281.