About the Organisation
The Heinrich Böll Stiftung (HBF) is the German Green Political Foundation, affiliated to the "Alliance '90/The Greens" political party. As part of a global green network, HBF works with more than 100 project partners in over 60 countries and currently maintain almost 40 international offices. In Southern Africa, HBF has been actively promoting the consolidation of democracy and human rights, advancing gender equality, and taking action to prevent the destruction of the environment since 1989.
About the Job
The Heinrich Böll Foundation (HBF) seeks a Communications Manager – International Policy & Outreach to join our team on a fixed-term contract in advancing a shared vision of feminist-based social-ecological transformation. We are looking for a strategic and creative communicator with deep political insight and strong media instincts. The successful candidate will assist with the office’s external communications, curating powerful narratives and amplifying our voice—and that of our partners—across local and global platforms. He/she/they will work closely with programme managers to translate complex political and policy issues into accessible, compelling content that shapes public discourse and drives systemic change.
This role offers a unique opportunity to influence international narratives, challenge entrenched power structures, and contribute to transformative change through bold, justice-driven communications. It is ideally suited to someone who thrives at the intersection of public relations, journalism, and international politics, and who brings a passion for storytelling, movement-building, and feminist advocacy.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Communications & Content Development
Co-develop and implement the Cape Town office’s communications and visibility strategy.
Lead or support the creation of high-quality content—including articles, reports, policy briefs, and multimedia—aligned with the organization’s mission and international political work.
Work closely with programme managers to turn advocacy and research outputs into compelling public narratives.
Narrative Strategy & International Policy Engagement
Monitor and coordinate responses to developments in global governance, international politics, and relevant local/regional policy spaces; ensure timely updates and analysis for the Cape Town team.
Support messaging for participation in international policy forums, civil society platforms, and media engagements.
Translate programmatic insights and outcomes into accessible stories and commentaries that influence global discourse on social and ecological justice.
Media Relations & Public Outreach
Build and maintain relationships with journalists, editors, media outlets, and digital influencers across the region.
Draft and commission op-eds, press releases, and opinion pieces linking relevant feminist and ecological perspectives to current events and policy debates
Proactively pitch stories, interviews, and commentary to mainstream and alternative media, positioning the organization as a thought leader.
Digital Media & Online Engagement
Manage the Cape Town office’s digital presence, including its website and social media platforms; monitor engagement metrics to refine strategy.
Oversee online community interactions to ensure respectful, values-aligned dialogue.
Support the creation of digital campaigns linked to programmatic milestones, key publications, and annual events.
Event Communications & Representation
Manage communications at HBF public events—such as dialogues, launches, and advocacy campaigns.
Represent the organization in public forums, facilitating or speaking at events related to international policy and global justice, when needed.
Requirements
A degree in in Journalism, Communications, International Relations, Political Science or any related field
Minimum of 5 years of experience in communications, journalism, or media relations preferably in the NGO, advocacy, or policy-driven sectors.
Strong understanding of international politics, global governance institutions, as well as feminist and decolonial thought.
Familiarity with African and Global South political landscapes and media environments.
Proven ability to communicate complex issues clearly and accessibly across diverse platforms and audiences.
Exceptional writing and editing skills; a portfolio of published work or media placements is an asset.
Proven experience managing social media platforms and online engagement strategies; website management is an advantage.
Proficiency with communications tools (e.g., CMS platforms, design/layout software, analytics tools) is a plus.
Fluency in English required; additional languages an advantage.
To apply
Please note this is a 6-month fixed-term contract.
In order to apply, email your application by Friday 25th July 2025 to melissa@actionappointments.co.za - send your completed AA bio form, letter of motivation and updated CV (all in MS Word format).
