Writer and Editor – English (Anticipatory)

Contract details:

• Independent contractor with deliverable-based contract
• Equivalent to approximately 25% full time
• 12-month contract, with possibility of renewal

Location: Open to contractors based in Africa’s Great Lakes region

Closing Date: November 5, 2023

Overview

IMPACT is seeking a Writer/Editor to support an anticipated four-year project which aims to contribute to peace and security while improving mineral governance in Africa’s Great Lakes region. The project’s areas of focus:

• improved government controls of artisanal mining resources including environmental and social impacts with a particular attention to women and youth;
• the adoption by in-region stakeholders of strategies and best practice models relating to artisanal gold export regimes; and,
• improved monitoring of commodity and data flows in alignment with national, regional and international market standards, regulations and laws.

As part of this project, IMPACT is seeking a talented Writer and Editor to support its research reports, technical publications, training guides, and public-facing content. They will translate technically complex ideas and lessons learned into more engaging concepts that clearly convey the project’s impact to a broad audience. They will work closely with the project team, subject matter experts and IMPACT’s Curriculum and Learning Specialist to produce clearly written, practical products tailored to the project’s audiences. Additionally, the Writer and Editor will be responsible for ensuring IMPACT’s brand is maintained throughout public-facing documents and will be responsible for ensuring copy-editing needs are fulfilled within the project. The Writer and Editor will report to IMPACT’s Communications Director, based in Ottawa.

Primary Responsibilities

• Develop clear, concise, and compelling written content that is technically accurate for various audiences and stakeholders, such as briefing papers, research reports, training guides, and more.
• Refine and enhance the written work of team members through strong editing and copywriting skills.
• Edit written materials for structure and clarity, and to ensure technical concepts are clearly articulated, texts are jargon-free, and the organization’s impact and achievements are clear.
• Translate technically-complex into creative content that can engage audiences, enhance our reach, and demonstrate impact.
• Support with fact checking of publications, when needed.
• Copy-edit all materials according to IMPACT’s Style Guide and support brand cohesion.

Required Qualifications & Skills

Candidates are asked to clearly demonstrate in their applications how they meet the requirements of the position.

Essential qualifications, expertise, and skills:

• Undergraduate degree or equivalent in Communications, Journalism or Public Relations.
• At least 7 years of relevant experience in a writing or communications role.
• Experience working for an international non-profit or in international development preferred.
• Proven excellence in writing, with the experience and ability to adapt writing style and tone for different audiences and platforms.
• Meticulous copy-editing skills with the ability to edit to brand guidelines.
• Experience writing or editing various types of technical content including curriculums, training guides, or toolkits.
• Strong project management and coordination skills with a proven ability to deliver high-quality writing and editing projects on time.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to negotiate the editing process successfully and diplomatically with colleagues.
• Strong computer skills with exceptional proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Preference for candidates who can communicate with colleagues in both English and French in cross-cultural environments.

Competencies:

• Committed to ensuring communications built on respect and dignity when working with vulnerable populations.
• Creative, with a willingness to innovate.
• Excellent attention to detail, problem solving, and judgement.
• Self-starter, able to work independently, respect deadlines with minimal supervision.
• Excellent organizational, planning and time management skills, with the ability to multitask.
• Team player able to work with colleagues at all levels and in cross-cultural environments.
• Intuitive and pro-active with the ability to identify potential issues, needs, threats, or opportunities and brings these to the attention of Senior Management or relevant personnel.
• Ability to adapt to and work effectively on complex issues in a fast-paced environment.

About IMPACT

IMPACT transforms how natural resources are managed in areas where security and human rights are at risk. We investigate and develop approaches for natural resources to improve security, development, and equality. We are an independent non-profit, collaborating with local partners for lasting change.

IMPACT is headquartered in Ottawa, Canada and has offices in Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, and Côte d’Ivoire, as well as projects in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Zimbabwe. Learn more at www.impacttransform.org