STEM for Development is a global non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing STEM education and opportunities in the Global South. Thank you for your interest in applying to volunteer.
Please read the below background information about this opportunity. Note that this section includes essential information; it is therefore critical that you read it in its entirety before proceeding to apply.
Position: Director of Public Affairs
About
STEM for Development is seeking a communications and marketing expert to lead our Public Affairs team. As Director of Public Affairs, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s public relations strategies, managing our external communications, and enhancing our visibility within the STEM education and international development communities. You will lead a team of volunteers to create messaging that amplifies our impact, engages key stakeholders, and advocates for STEM higher education across the Global South.
As with all positions in STEM for Development, this position will be filled on a volunteer basis.
Who can apply?
Members of the public and STEM for Development staff are welcome to apply. Applications are encouraged from individuals regardless of nationality. We invite candidates from academia, industry, government, and the non-profit sectors to apply.
What is the time commitment?
4 - 6 hours per week, with flexibility to accommodate varying schedules and seasonal demands.
What will the Director do?
Working closely with the President and Public Affairs team, the applicant will support:
- Communications Strategy and Media Relations: Develop and implement communication strategies to increase awareness of STEM for Development’s mission and accomplishments. Manage media outreach and create press releases, newsletters, and public statements.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Cultivate relationships with key stakeholders, including media, donors, and the academic community, to enhance the organization’s public profile and partnership opportunities.
- Team Leadership and Coordination: Lead and manage the Public Affairs team, overseeing content creation, media engagement, and outreach activities.
- Event and Campaign Management: Organize and coordinate events, such as webinars or roundtables, that highlight key issues in STEM education and talent mobility.
What are the qualifications?
The successful applicant will be required to have the following qualifications:
- An advanced degree (MA/MSc/PhD) in STEM, communications, public policy, international relations, or a related field OR substantial work experience (>5 years) in any of these fields.
- Proven experience in communications, public relations, or policy advocacy.Fluency in English; proficiency in additional languages spoken in the Global South is a plus.
- Experience working independently with limited supervision.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; strong strategic planning, organizational, and time management skills, ability to work collaboratively in a diverse and inclusive team environment.
The successful applicant should also possess one or more of the following preferred qualifications:
- Experience developing communication strategies and building relationships with media and policy influencers.
- Demonstrated leadership in organizing events or campaigns within an international or cross-cultural context.
- Significant experience in graphic design or visual communication, including with design tools such as Canva or Adobe Creative Suite.
Training will be provided to aid the successful applicant in assuming this position.
Why should I volunteer?
This is an excellent opportunity to enhance your public affairs, advocacy, and leadership skills while expanding your professional network globally. By working with STEM for Development, you can contribute to raising awareness of critical STEM education issues and help shape the future of global STEM talent, all while collaborating with a dynamic and passionate team.
Interested?
To apply for either this position, please submit your CV and cover letter by 11:59pm GMT on Sunday, October 20. Interviews will be required of top candidates.
We look forward to your application!
Questions?
Please email info@stemfordevelopment.org
