Social and Behavioral Communication Specialist at Policy Innovation Centre (PIC) Institute

The Policy Innovation Centre (PIC) Institute is at the forefront of a transformative movement to connect rigorous academic research with practical policymaking. As Africa's leading think tank, we understand that solving the continent's most pressing challenges requires innovative, evidence-based solutions. The PIC Institute is our answer to this need, creating a vibrant ecosystem where research meets action. The PIC Institute serves as a nexus for academics, policymakers, and stakeholders committed to fostering sustainable development in Africa. Leveraging the strengths of interdisciplinary research and real-world policy application, the institute champions innovative and impactful solutions across health, education, economic development, governance, and more. We are driven by a vision to address Africa’s complex societal challenges through collaboration, ensuring that policies are well-informed, human-centered, locally relevant, and grounded in robust evidence.

Job Overview

• The Policy Innovation Centre (PIC) seeks to hire a Social and Behavioural Communication Specialist who will work within the Behavioural Innovation Lab of PIC and play a critical role in developing and implementing strategies that influence behaviours and social norms to improve programmatic outcomes.
• The specialist will utilize behavioural insights to design, manage, and assess communication campaigns, programs, and initiatives that address specific behavioural and social change objectives.
• This role involves a blend of strategic planning, research, community engagement, and creative communication design.

Job Responsibilities

• Develop and implement evidence-based communication strategies to influence individual and community behaviour, tailoring approaches to specific populations, contexts, and behaviours in alignment with program objectives.
• Conduct qualitative and quantitative formative research to understand target audiences' perceptions, behaviours, and needs, and analyse the data to inform communication strategies and campaigns.
• Lead the development of culturally relevant and engaging communication materials, including print, digital, social media, and multimedia content, to effectively reach diverse audiences.
• Plan, execute, and monitor communication campaigns to ensure they achieve desired outcomes, tracking effectiveness and making necessary adjustments to maximize impact.
• Collaborate with key stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and community groups, to align communication efforts with broader social and behavioural objectives.
• Provide training and technical support to internal teams, partners, and local community groups on communication approaches, methodologies, and tools for social and behavioural change.
• Apply behavioural science principles and frameworks to design communication strategies, ensuring messages are crafted to drive the intended behavioural changes.
• Develop and utilize indicators and tools to evaluate the impact of communication initiatives, using findings to refine strategies and improve future interventions.
• Represent the organization at public forums, conferences, and media engagements, advocating for behaviour change and promoting initiatives to key stakeholders.

Qualifications / Job Requirements

• A Bachelor's Degree in Communication, Social Sciences, Public Health, Behavioural Science, or a related field is required. A master's degree is an advantage.
• At least 3-5 years of experience in social and behavioural communication in any field. Experience in designing and managing large-scale communication campaigns is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of behaviour change theories and communication models (e.g., Social Cognitive Theory, Health Belief Model, Theory of Planned Behaviour, Theoretical Domains Framework, COMB Model etc.).
• Proficiency in research methods (qualitative and quantitative), including survey design, focus groups, and data analysis.
• Expertise in content creation, including writing, graphic design, video production, and social media management.
• Knowledge of monitoring and evaluation methods to assess campaign effectiveness.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to adapt messages for various audiences.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Cultural sensitivity and the ability to work in diverse, multi-disciplinary teams.
• Fluency in any two local Nigerian languages is an added advantage.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Professional development opportunities.
• A supportive and collaborative working environment.

Method of Application