About Company
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is an impartial, neutral, and independent organization whose exclusively humanitarian mission is to protect the lives and dignity of victims of armed conflict and other situations of violence and to provide them with assistance. Established in 1863, the ICRC is at the heart of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, present in over 100 countries. Our unique mandate, derived from the 1949 Geneva Conventions, allows us to work directly with those affected by conflict, providing medical aid, food, water, and shelter, and advocating for respect for international humanitarian law. Joining the ICRC means contributing to a cause that truly changes lives and upholds human dignity in the most challenging environments, offering a chance to be part of a team dedicated to addressing global humanitarian challenges.
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Job Description
Are you a highly skilled and empathetic communicator with an unwavering passion for humanitarian causes and an exceptional talent for storytelling? The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is actively seeking a dedicated and dynamic Public Relations Officer to join our world-renowned global communications team, based in our headquarters in Geneva. In this pivotal role, you will be instrumental in shaping positive public perception, deepening global understanding of the ICRC’s vital mandate, and powerfully amplifying the authentic voices and experiences of those most severely affected by armed conflict and other situations of violence. Your expertise will be crucial in developing and implementing comprehensive and impactful PR strategies, working in close collaboration with our diverse operational, advocacy, and digital teams to ensure that our critical messages resonate effectively with a wide array of audiences – including key international media, influential policymakers, strategic partners, and the broader global public.
This position offers an unparalleled opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the mission of a leading and globally respected humanitarian organization. You will be at the forefront of identifying compelling human-interest stories directly from the field, meticulously crafting impactful press releases, proactively managing complex international media relations, and expertly preparing our spokespeople for high-stakes interviews. Your profound work will directly bolster our sustained efforts to protect and assist vulnerable populations, ensuring that their struggles, resilience, and urgent needs are accurately, empathetically, and widely communicated across various platforms. We are specifically looking for an individual who thrives in a demanding, fast-paced, and inherently international environment; possesses impeccable judgment; and can skillfully navigate complex and often sensitive communication challenges with the utmost professionalism, integrity, and ethical considerations. If you are deeply driven by a desire to make a profound and tangible difference in the lives of millions through the strategic power of communication, we wholeheartedly encourage you to apply and become an indispensable part of the ICRC’s enduring and critical mission.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute proactive media engagement strategies to raise global awareness of ICRC's humanitarian operations and unique mandate.
- Cultivate and maintain strong, trust-based relationships with key national and international media outlets, journalists, and influential thought leaders.
- Draft and disseminate high-quality press releases, compelling media advisories, detailed backgrounders, and other essential communications materials.
- Identify, research, and pitch compelling stories, evocative photos, and impactful video content from ICRC’s field operations to generate positive and empathetic media coverage.
- Prepare ICRC spokespeople for high-profile media interviews, including developing nuanced talking points, comprehensive Q&As, and conducting effective media training sessions.
- Monitor global media coverage, analyze emerging trends and sentiments, and provide regular, insightful reports on PR activities and their measurable impact.
- Collaborate seamlessly with internal teams (operations, advocacy, digital, legal) to ensure consistent, accurate, and unified messaging across all communication platforms.
- Manage crisis communications and respond to media inquiries promptly, accurately, and with unwavering adherence to the ICRC's fundamental principles of neutrality, impartiality, and independence.
- Support the strategic development and execution of communication plans for specific campaigns, flagship reports, major events, and new initiatives.
- Represent the ICRC at relevant conferences, workshops, and networking events to enhance visibility and forge partnerships.
Required Skills
- Minimum 5 years of progressively responsible professional experience in public relations, media relations, or corporate communications, preferably within an international NGO, intergovernmental organization, or similar complex entity.
- Proven track record of successfully developing and implementing comprehensive PR strategies, managing complex media campaigns, and securing significant, impactful media coverage.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills in English and French (C1 level or higher for both is mandatory, with strong drafting and editing abilities).
- Profound understanding of the global media landscape, including traditional print, broadcast, and rapidly evolving digital media platforms.
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively under pressure, manage multiple competing priorities, and consistently meet tight deadlines in a demanding international environment.
- Adept at handling sensitive and complex information with the highest level of discretion, professionalism, and ethical consideration.
- Proficiency in media monitoring and analytics tools (e.g., Cision, Meltwater, Brandwatch).
- Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, International Relations, or a closely related field from an accredited institution.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Journalism, Public Relations, International Humanitarian Law).
- Working knowledge of additional official ICRC languages such as German, Arabic, or Spanish.
- Direct experience working in or covering humanitarian emergencies, conflict zones, or fragile contexts.
- In-depth familiarity with international humanitarian law (IHL) and the fundamental principles and mandate of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.
- Demonstrable experience in digital PR, social media management, and content creation for online platforms.
Perks & Benefits
- Engaging and impactful work at the heart of global humanitarian action.
- Competitive salary package commensurate with experience and responsibilities, aligned with Geneva’s cost of living.
- Comprehensive benefits program including robust health insurance, pension scheme, and life insurance.
- Generous paid time off, including annual leave and public holidays.
- Significant opportunities for professional development, continuous learning, and career advancement within a global organization.
- Access to a vast and diverse global network of dedicated humanitarian professionals.
- Commitment to work-life balance and employee well-being initiatives.
- Subsidized public transportation pass within Geneva and access to various employee support services.
How to Apply
We invite passionate and highly qualified candidates to apply by clicking on the application link below. Please submit your comprehensive CV and a compelling cover letter, carefully detailing your relevant experience, demonstrated achievements in public relations, and profound motivation for joining the International Committee of the Red Cross. Ensure your application clearly articulates how your unique skills and extensive experience precisely align with the challenging yet rewarding requirements of this Public Relations Officer role. The ICRC strongly values diversity and is deeply committed to creating an inclusive, equitable, and respectful work environment for all. We actively encourage applications from all qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marital status, race, religion, or sexual orientation. Only shortlisted candidates who meet the specified criteria will be contacted for further assessment and interviews.
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