The project has allocated a budget for distributing more than 20 grants to actors in the 5 countries targeted. Under the supervision of the Project Leader based in Tbilisi (Georgia) and the Deputy Project Leader, based in Chisinau (Moldova), the EU4Innovation East - Communication manager and Lead for Component 4 is part of the Project Management Unit (PMU) – and is based in Tbilisi, Georgia or Chisinau, Moldova. 

He/She will supervise the Communication Officer, based in Chisinau, Moldova.

The Communication manager and Lead for Component 4 will play a strategic role in ensuring the communication and visibility of EU4Innovation East activities. This role will primarily focus on leading the implementation of Component 4: "International Spotlight for EaP Startups during European emblematic events." This component aims to increase the visibility of EaP role models and startup ecosystems on international stages to attract business opportunities and top-tier talents. Additionally, the Communication Manager will oversee the project's broader communication strategy.

The role requires a high degree of autonomy and thoroughness, plus interpersonal skills suitable for an international and multicultural environment. 

Project description

EU4Innovation East is a EU-funded project aiming to support the Eastern Partner Countries (EaP) startup ecosystems’ growth.

Position Description

Responsibilities

Under the supervision of the Project Leader and the Deputy Project Leader.

Lead of component 4

• Coordinate and organize the work with relevant stakeholders, ensuring continuous follow-up with the implicated counterparts.
• Conduct continuous situational analysis to precisely identify key actors and strategies for implementing the component's activities.
• Define the necessary means (human, technical, and financial resources) for the proper execution of activities.
• Select, contract, and manage the required team/providers needed for adequate implementation of the component’s activities.
• Ensure the implementation of all activities related to the outputs of the component.
• Ensure financial follow-up of the budget related to the component/activities in charge.
• Formalize and adjust the schedule for each action, proposing necessary adjustments and/or mitigation measures if needed.
• Support the Management Team in formalizing new activities depending on the evolving context and intervention requests related to the component.
• Manage reporting activities related to the component, 
• Collaborate with the MEAL officer to ensure monitoring, evaluation, accounting, and learning of the activities of the implicated components.
• Implementation of Technical Assistance and Capacity Reinforcement Activities:
  • Define activities and formulate terms of reference.
  • Mobilize experts and manage implicated partners.
  • Lead the organization of the activities.
  • Consolidate the required reporting and MEAL materials related to the implemented activities.

General Communication Responsibilities:

• Oversee the overall communication strategy for the EU4Innovation East project.
• Propose, plan, and execute specific project communication plans for each component.
• Manage and mentor the Communication Officer, delegating tasks and providing guidance.
• Ensure timely task completion and quality control of projects assigned to the Communication Assistant.
• Develop, manage, and disseminate a wide range of communication products including the project website, leaflets, videos, and newsletters in local languages and English.
• Oversee and review all communication tools to ensure compliance with the project's graphic charter.
• Manage social media networks (Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, X, and Instagram).
• Design graphics for social media campaigns.
• Manage social media ad campaigns to achieve required goals.
• Manage relationships with a wide range of stakeholders in the targeted countries including high-level officials, prominent businessmen, and entrepreneurs.
• Ensure smooth internal communication within the EU4Innovation East team (30 persons).
• Coordinate communication activities with the EF HQ communication department, other related French institutions (AFD, French embassy, etc.), and project donors (e.g., European Union, French government).
• Maintain good relationships with local and regional media outlets and journalists in the targeted countries and the region.
• Write and disseminate press releases in local languages and English to relevant media outlets.
• Provide monitoring and evaluation reports on project communication activities including activity reports, web metrics, audience statistics, and press coverage.
• Ensure communication and visibility of events and project activities.
• Design communication materials for events as needed including roll-ups, posters, and banners.
• Expected Deliverables:
  • Design a detailed communication action plan 2024-2028.
  • Implement all requested communication campaigns on a yearly basis.
  • Ensure the website and social media feeds are up to date.
  • Ensure events and activities are well-communicated and covered by national and international press.
  • Release requested videos.
  • Develop and disseminate quarterly digital newsletters for the project.
  • Write and distribute up to 10 press releases per year.