RFQ for publicity and press management - USAID pakistan

PUBLICITY AND PRESS MANAGEMENT

Gaining public visibility or awareness through earned media and publicity is an important factor for USAID/Pakistan’s promotional work. The Publicity and Press Manager/Consultant will be responsible for creating and maintaining a favorable public image for USAID/Pakistan by communicating the accomplishments of USAID/Pakistan's projects and activities. The Consultant must possess a university degree in journalism, mass communication, advertising, or a related field; and a minimum of five years of experience as a reporter, editor, media coordinator, TV production or in public relations services is required. 

The Consultant must have strong connections with leading media outlets in order to generate media attention for events and ensure USAID/Pakistan’s messaging is disseminated appropriately and broadly. Through strong relationships with leading local media outlets, the Consultant will help USAID/Pakistan deliver messages clearly and effectively in English, Urdu, and other local languages.

The incumbent must also have solid contacts with the Pakistani print, broadcast, and social media players as he or she will be responsible for pitching stories to the media, preparing media kits, and organizing press tours/events. In addition to writing press releases, the incumbent will write speeches and prepare articles for publications, release information to counter negative publicity, and handle crisis and emergency communications.

Working closely with the Development Outreach and Communications (DOC) Team, the Consultant is expected to generate quality media coverage of USAID/Pakistan events, paying particular attention to themes designated by USAID/Pakistan and its regional focus areas. The Consultant shall interact with local media contacts regularly, encouraging accurate reporting, process materials, and address any necessary changes to ensure items go to press on time.