Head of communication

IOE is the largest private sector network in the world, representing 50 million businesses through 150 national employers’ organisations.

IOE is the sole representative of business in social and employment policy debates taking place at the International Labour Organisation (ILO), the United Nations, G20, and other global forums.

IOE is recognised for its unique expertise, advocacy, and influence as a powerful and balanced voice for business at the international level.

IOE consolidates the perspectives and priorities of national employers’ and business organizations in one single, effective, and coherent voice.

Our vision is to create a sustainable economic environment worldwide, promoting free enterprise that is fair and beneficial to both business and society.

IOE offers a unique opportunity to gain insights into global policy development, how this works from both a technical and political perspective, how it influences business, and how business interacts with social partners, governments, and NGOs.

The IOE team consists of highly skilled professionals with diverse backgrounds who are efficient, passionate, dedicated, and versatile.

Job Description

IOE is seeking an experienced and dynamic Head of Communications to lead the organisation's communications function.

Reporting directly to the Secretary-General, the successful candidate will develop and implement IOE's communication strategy, strengthen the organisation's visibility and reputation, oversee digital communications, and manage the Communications team.

Description of Duties

• Develop and implement a communications strategy aligned with IOE's organisational priorities and strategic objectives.
• Lead, manage and develop the Communications team, setting priorities and fostering professional development.
• Lead the planning, coordination and delivery of communications for IOE members, partners and other key stakeholders.
• Oversee the organisation's digital communications, including the website and social media channels, ensuring the delivery of engaging, high-quality written and multimedia content.
• Manage media relations, including drafting press releases, coordinating media opportunities, and providing strategic communications advice and support to senior leadership.
• Oversee the production of publications, newsletters and other corporate communications, ensuring consistency with IOE's Visual Identity.
• Develop and implement IOE's Visual Identity to ensure it reflects the organisation's values, priorities and strategic direction.
• Establish and maintain high editorial standards across all communications, ensuring accuracy, consistency, accessibility and quality.
• Monitor, evaluate and report on the effectiveness of communications activities, using data and audience insights to drive continuous improvement and inform future communications strategies.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have

• High sensitivity to business priorities and challenges, particularly those affecting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), together with a sound understanding of the role and values of national employers' and business organisations.
• Experience in communications at employers and business organisations is an asset.
• An advanced university degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, International Relations or another relevant field.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressively responsible professional experience in strategic communications, public affairs, media relations or corporate communications, preferably within an international organisation, business association, employers' organisation or NGO.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing comprehensive communication strategies that enhance organisational visibility and stakeholder engagement.
• Proven experience leading and managing communication teams, including planning, prioritising workloads and mentoring staff.
• Proven experience managing digital communication platforms, including websites, social media channels, content management systems (CMS), customer relationship management (CRM) tools and digital campaigns.
• Excellent drafting, editing and presentation skills, with the ability to communicate complex policy issues clearly and effectively to diverse audiences.
• Strong project management, organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver high-quality outputs under tight deadlines.
• Excellent analytical skills, with the ability to monitor communication performance, interpret data and translate insights into strategic recommendations.
• Fluency in English is required (native or near-native proficiency); proficiency in French or/and Spanish is highly desirable and a strong asset.
• Good understanding of the international policy environment, including the role of multilateral organisations and international institutions.
• Familiarity with the International Labour Organization (ILO), the international tripartite system and global labour and employment issues would be considered an asset.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a multicultural and multidisciplinary environment.
• A proactive, innovative and solution-oriented mindset, with excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• High level of professionalism, integrity, flexibility and commitment to teamwork.

Remuneration and conditions

Contract start date

1 January 2027.

• A competitive employment package will be offered, including an attractive remuneration package, pension scheme, social security coverage, allowances and other employment benefits.

Employment rate

100%.

The IOE is an equal opportunities employer, and the successful candidate will be selected based on merit.

We welcome applications from qualified candidates, including those with disabilities.

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