The Sexual Violence Research Initiative (SVRI) has announced an exciting opportunity for an experienced communications professional to join its global team as a Communications Manager. The full-time position can be performed remotely and offers annual earnings of between US$35,000 and US$40,000, depending on experience and expertise. The role is suited to communications, public relations, journalism, marketing and knowledge-translation professionals who have substantial experience communicating research and evidence, particularly in areas related to violence against women (VAW), violence against children (VAC) and gender-based violence. Applications are open to qualified candidates worldwide, with the deadline set for 13 September 2026 at 23:59 South Africa time. About the Sexual Violence Research Initiative The Sexual Violence Research Initiative is a global network focused on advancing research on violence against women, violence against children and other forms of violence driven by gender inequality. The organization brings together researchers, practitioners, activists, funders and other stakeholders working to strengthen evidence-based approaches to the prevention of and response to violence. Its work has a particular focus on low- and middle-income countries. As part of its knowledge-sharing role, SVRI develops, gathers and disseminates research and evidence intended to improve policy and practice. The Communications Manager will therefore play a central role in ensuring that important research findings, tools, initiatives and lessons reach the audiences that need them. What Will the Communications Manager Do? The successful candidate will be responsible for strengthening and implementing SVRI’s communications strategy across its major platforms and projects. The role will involve communicating research, supporting knowledge exchange and increasing the visibility and influence of SVRI’s work. Key responsibilities include: Managing SVRI’s social media, website and newsletter channels. Developing regular social media plans and creating engaging content. Writing captions and designing social media graphics and communication materials. Monitoring social media engagement and analysing performance. Managing and updating the organization’s website. Applying search engine optimization to web content. Supporting the development and improvement of the weekly SVRI Update newsletter. Developing email marketing strategies. Creating and packaging multimedia content. Promoting research findings, tools, courses and capacity-building initiatives. Highlighting achievements and lessons from grant partners. Supporting communications around SVRI events and partnerships. Developing communications strategies for specific projects. Identifying appropriate audiences, channels and dissemination approaches. Reviewing reports, blogs, press releases, layouts, videos, images and other communication products. Maintaining visual and branding consistency. Developing monitoring and evaluation approaches for communications activities. Supporting knowledge translation and evidence dissemination. The successful candidate will therefore need to combine strategic communications expertise with strong writing, digital content, research translation and audience-engagement abilities. A Major Focus on Research Communication One of the most important elements of this position is the ability to transform complex research into accessible and compelling communication. The Communications Manager will help translate scientific and peer-reviewed research into key messages that can be understood by different audiences and effectively disseminated through appropriate channels. This could include developing social media content, web articles, newsletters, campaign materials, press releases, multimedia resources and other products based on research findings. The successful candidate will also support communications around SVRI’s four broad areas of work, including building evidence, strengthening capacity, promoting partnerships and influencing change. This makes the position particularly relevant for professionals who understand both communications and research dissemination. Who Can Apply? Applicants should have a degree or advanced degree in communications, journalism, public relations, marketing or a related discipline. An advanced degree and/or experience in areas such as violence against women, violence against children, public health, development or social sciences would be an advantage. Candidates are expected to have at least five years of relevant communications or public relations experience, with up to 10 years or more of experience considered relevant. Applicants should also demonstrate a strong understanding of research relating to violence against women and violence against children. SVRI is particularly interested in professionals who have experience engaging globally in these fields and understand relevant stakeholders and research priorities. Key Skills and Experience Required Strong candidates should be able to demonstrate several important technical and professional competencies. These include: Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Strong knowledge of social media platforms and formats. Experience with knowledge translation. Ability to translate scientific research into accessible messages. Excellent design and presentation skills. Experience managing websites and content management systems. Expertise with WordPress or similar CMS platforms. Experience using Canva or comparable design tools. Experience with video editing and web design. Experience with email marketing platforms such as Mailchimp. Strong IT and database management skills. Experience working within multicultural and remote teams. Understanding of ethical communications and storytelling. Knowledge of trauma-informed and survivor-centred communications. Knowledge of additional languages beyond English is also highly desirable. Understanding Feminist and Ethical Communications The position requires more than conventional communications expertise. SVRI states that its work is feminist-centred, rights-based, innovative, collaborative and equitable. The Communications Manager will therefore need to understand how communications can be developed in ways that respect the dignity, safety and rights of people affected by violence. Experience with trauma-informed and survivor-centred communications is particularly relevant because communications involving violence against women and children require careful consideration of language, imagery, consent, privacy and representation. This makes the role especially suitable for professionals who combine communications expertise with a strong understanding of ethical research dissemination. Salary and Working Arrangements The Communications Manager position is a full-time remote opportunity. Depending on experience and expertise, the salary ranges from: US$35,000 to US$40,000 per year. For candidates based in South Africa, remuneration will be provided in South African Rand. Although the role is remote, the successful candidate will be expected to travel for certain in-person meetings required to fulfil the responsibilities of the position. For South Africa-based applicants, SVRI also provides office space in Pretoria for candidates who prefer to work onsite. What Applicants Must Submit Candidates applying for the position must apply through the designated Workable application system. The application should include: A letter of application explaining the skills and approach the candidate would bring to SVRI. A CV or resume in English. Details of three referees. A professional portfolio demonstrating relevant communications work. The portfolio is an important component of the application. Candidates should provide examples of their most relevant work, including at least: One communications campaign. Four to five social media posts and designs. One to two press releases or other writing samples. Applicants may also submit examples involving video production, podcast coordination or production, web design and related communications work. Candidates should therefore ensure that their portfolio demonstrates not only creativity but also their ability to communicate research, evidence and complex issues effectively. Application Deadline Applications for the SVRI Communications Manager position close on 13 September 2026 at 23:59 South Africa time. Interested professionals are encouraged to prepare their application and portfolio carefully before submitting. Because the organization will shortlist candidates for further consideration, applicants should make sure their CV, application letter and portfolio clearly demonstrate how their experience matches the requirements of the position. Why This Opportunity Stands Out The SVRI Communications Manager position offers an opportunity for an experienced communications professional to work at the intersection of research, advocacy, knowledge translation and global development. Beyond managing social media and digital platforms, the successful candidate will help ensure that evidence about violence against women and children is communicated effectively to researchers, practitioners, policymakers, funders and wider audiences. Professionals with strong communications backgrounds and experience working with research-based organizations, development institutions, public health programmes, gender-focused organizations or international networks may find the role particularly relevant. The combination of remote working, global engagement, a competitive salary and the opportunity to contribute to evidence-based change makes this an attractive career opportunity for experienced communications specialists. How to Apply Qualified candidates should submit their application through SVRI’s official recruitment process, including the required application letter, CV, referees and professional portfolio. Applicants should ensure that their portfolio contains strong examples of strategic communications, social media content, writing and research dissemination that demonstrate their ability to meet the demands of the role. Application deadline: 13 September 2026 at 23:59 South Africa time. APPLY HERE For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities is not the organization offering this opportunity. Applicants should independently verify all vacancy details, eligibility requirements and application procedures with the Sexual Violence Research Initiative before applying. JOIN GSO WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW