About Company
The Northern Rangelands Trust (NRT) is an innovative, non-profit organization dedicated to building resilient communities and healthy ecosystems in Northern and Coastal Kenya. Established in 2004, NRT works with 45 community conservancies across an area of over 6.3 million acres, supporting local communities in their efforts to manage their land, protect wildlife, and develop sustainable livelihoods. Our mission is to transform people’s lives by growing a network of community conservancies that are securing peace, conserving wildlife and managing rangelands. We believe in empowering local leadership, fostering peace, and championing a unique conservation model that puts communities at the heart of decision-making. Through initiatives ranging from wildlife security and anti-poaching efforts to sustainable grazing management, eco-tourism, and enterprise development, NRT contributes significantly to regional stability, biodiversity conservation, and poverty alleviation. Join our dedicated team and contribute to a legacy of conservation and community empowerment in one of Africa’s most vital ecosystems.
Job Description
NRT is seeking a dynamic, highly strategic, and experienced Director of Media Relations to lead our comprehensive communications and public relations efforts, significantly elevating our profile both nationally and internationally. Based in Samburu County, this pivotal role will be instrumental in shaping public perception of NRT’s groundbreaking work in conservation, community development, and peacebuilding across Northern Kenya. The Director will be responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing all media strategies, serving as a primary spokesperson for the organization, and ensuring consistent, compelling messaging across all communication channels. You will work hand-in-hand with our executive leadership, conservancy managers, program directors, and local communities to unearth and craft powerful narratives that highlight our impactful initiatives—from innovative wildlife security and anti-poaching operations to sustainable grazing management, eco-tourism projects, and enterprise development that empower women and youth. This role demands a proactive, creative, and strategically-minded individual with an exceptional understanding of the Kenyan and international media landscape, a robust network of media contacts, and an unwavering passion for conservation and community empowerment. The successful candidate will not only manage traditional media relations but also advise on digital communication strategies, engage with key stakeholders, and lead crisis communications efforts with agility and foresight. Your leadership will be critical in increasing NRT’s visibility, fostering stronger donor and partner relationships, and amplifying the voices of the communities we serve, ultimately showcasing the tangible positive changes being achieved in the rangelands and contributing to a sustainable future for both people and wildlife.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement a comprehensive media relations strategy aligned with NRT's strategic objectives and communication goals.
- Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key journalists, editors, producers, and influencers across print, broadcast, and digital media platforms in Kenya and internationally.
- Serve as a primary spokesperson for NRT, representing the organization effectively in media interviews, press conferences, and public events.
- Proactively identify compelling stories, pitches, and opportunities to showcase NRT's work, successes, and impact.
- Draft and edit high-quality press releases, media advisories, statements, Q&As, and other communication materials.
- Manage media inquiries and facilitate interviews, site visits, and access for journalists to NRT operations and community conservancies.
- Develop and deliver media training to NRT staff and conservancy leadership to enhance their communication skills and message delivery.
- Monitor media coverage of NRT and relevant industry trends, providing analysis and recommendations.
- Lead crisis communications efforts, developing and executing rapid response strategies to protect NRT's reputation.
- Collaborate closely with internal teams, including fundraising, program, and conservancy management, to ensure integrated and consistent messaging.
- Oversee the development of multimedia content (photos, videos, infographics) for media use.
- Track and report on media relations performance, including media mentions, sentiment, and reach.
Required Skills
- Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field.
- Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in media relations, public relations, or corporate communications, preferably within the non-profit, conservation, or development sector.
- Proven track record of successfully developing and executing media strategies and securing significant media coverage.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling narratives for diverse audiences.
- Demonstrated experience as a spokesperson and confidence in engaging with media representatives.
- Deep understanding of the Kenyan media landscape, including key media outlets and journalists.
- Strong crisis communication and reputation management skills.
- Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Fluency in English and Swahili is essential.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and experience with media monitoring tools.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master's degree in a relevant field.
- Experience working in remote or rural settings, particularly in Northern Kenya.
- Established network of international media contacts.
- Experience in wildlife conservation or community development sectors.
- Proficiency in local Samburu languages.
- Demonstrated photography or videography skills for media content generation.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with experience.
- Opportunity to work with a leading conservation organization making a tangible impact.
- Professional development and training opportunities.
- Generous leave policy.
- Health and medical insurance coverage.
- A challenging yet rewarding work environment in a unique part of Kenya.
- Contribution to meaningful conservation and community empowerment initiatives.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit a comprehensive application including a cover letter detailing their suitability for the role, a detailed CV, and contact information for three professional referees. Please click on the application link below to apply for the job and follow the instructions on our careers page. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.