COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER TRAINEE

The Agricultural Society of Kenya (A.S.K) is a non-profit organization focused on organizing exhibitions and promoting innovation, research and development in agriculture, trade and allied sectors. The Agricultural Society of Kenya does not discriminate because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, gender identity, genetic information, age, disability or veteran status in employment or in the provision of services.

Primary Purpose

The Communications Officer Trainee will support the implementation of the Society’s corporate communication, public relations, branding, media engagement, stakeholder communication and digital communication initiatives, while contributing to the Society’s visibility, reputation and strategic communication objectives.

Reports to: PR & Communications Manager

Job Location: Nairobi, Kenya

Qualifications and Experience

· Bachelor's degree in Communication, Public Relations, Journalism, Corporate Communication, Marketing or a related field from a recognized institution.

· Internship, industrial attachment or other relevant practical experience in corporate communication, public relations, media or a related field will be an added advantage.

· Basic knowledge of corporate communication, public relations, media engagement, branding and digital communication.

· Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with digital communication platforms and AI-powered productivity tools (such as ChatGPT, Gemini, Microsoft Copilot or equivalent).

· Basic proficiency in Canva for graphic design and digital content creation. Knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite will be an added advantage.

· Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with good interpersonal, organizational and time management abilities.

· Demonstrated willingness and ability to learn new communication technologies, digital tools and work processes.

· Experience with Mailchimp or similar email marketing platforms, social media analytics tools, and basic photography or videography skills will be an added advantage.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

· Assist in implementing the Society's corporate communication, public relations, branding and stakeholder engagement activities.

· Support the preparation and dissemination of communication materials, including press releases, speeches, newsletters, articles, brochures and digital content.

· Assist in managing and updating the Society's website, social media platforms and email communication channels.

· Support media relations activities, monitor media coverage and maintain communication records.

· Assist in planning and coordinating branding, promotional and communication activities during exhibitions, events and stakeholder engagements.

· Conduct research on communication trends, digital technologies and Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to support communication initiatives.

· Support the monitoring of communication performance and assist in preparing reports and recommendations.

· Perform any other duties as may be assigned by the PR & Communications Manager.

Competencies and Personal Attributes

· Excellent writing, editing and proofreading skills.

· Strong storytelling and content development abilities.

· Creative thinking and attention to detail.

· Strong organizational and project coordination skills.

· High level of professionalism, integrity and confidentiality.

· Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.

· Strong willingness to learn, embrace innovation and continuously improve.

How to apply

Applicants are encouraged to submit a portfolio comprising at least three (3) samples of communication work demonstrating their writing and content development skills. Samples may include articles, speeches, press releases, newsletters, brochures, social media content, graphic designs, website content or any other relevant communication materials.

All application letters should be accompanied by a detailed CV indicating telephone contacts, personal e-mail addresses and three (3) referees.