Background
Since 2005, our flagship AidWatch report has provided a comprehensive assessment of the quantity and quality of EU Official Development Assistance (ODA). The report is a core document of our Confederation’s yearly advocacy, both at the EU and national levels. The objective of the report is to provide data and refined analysis to hold EU leaders accountable for their commitment to dedicate at least 0.7% of their Gross National Income (GNI) to ODA – and to use it in a genuine and effective way.

CONCORD is seeking a consultant to support the communication around the report. The overarching goal will be to increase the visibility and reach of the report with a strategic and storytelling-based approach.

For more information about the AidWatch report, please visit: https://aidwatch.concordeurope.org/.

Objectives and scope of the work
The consultant will work closely with the Policy and Advocacy Adviser coordinating AidWatch 2023. CONCORD has identified the following aspects as key to increasing the visibility of the report and its main findings:

Challenging the language and narrative around ODA: Our communications aim to set the highest standards of storytelling. Across all communications, the consultant will support in reviewing the language used in the report and propose alternatives for how we speak about international cooperation and partnerships.

Engaging with EU-level media: A key objective of the AidWatch report is to put the EU’s commitment to deliver more and better ODA higher on the public and political agenda through increased media visibility. It will be essential to maintain and build relationships with EU-level journalists, as well as translate complex, technical information into engaging stories and messages.

Increasing the online presence and profile of AidWatch: Each year, AidWatch evolves to strengthen the report’s visual branding and implement more effective ways of sharing key messages. From creating edgy data visualisations to writing catchy social media posts, the consultant will ensure a strategic approach to ensure messages reach the right audiences, at the right time.

Connecting EU and national level communications: AidWatch is a core document of our Confederation’s yearly advocacy, both at the EU and national level. The consultant will play a role in mobilising our network of communication professionals in Member States to share experiences, find synergies, and ultimately, amplify our collective impact.

Note: Due to the nature of the work, group applications are also welcome. See more details below under ‘How to apply’.

Main tasks and responsibilities

• Develop and implement a communication plan, based on CONCORD’s dedicated AidWatch comms strategy, including social media and press;
• Shape the language and narrative of the report and ensure consistency across all outputs;
• Write a press release for the report and engage with journalists;
• Advise and oversee the restructuring of the report’s webpage;
• Advise and oversee the overall branding and design of the publication;
• Create content for social media with consistent language and branding;
• Create media-friendly messages, including a press release, to engage key media outlets;
• Engage the ‘AidWatch communications taskforce’ (internal CONCORD working group) with the support of our Secretariat;
• Support communications around the launch event, for example disseminating an invitation;
• Compile an evaluation and impact report.

Candidates profile 

• Proven experience and success in implementing communication strategies;
• Excellent written and spoken English with very good editing and proof-reading skills (a must);
• Ability to translate complex topics into engaging visual and written content;
• Proficiency in basic design software (Adobe, Canva) with an eye for detail;
• Experience in ensuring quality outputs when working with other providers;
• Experience in engaging with press and media with an eye for what makes a great story;
• Experience working with a diverse group of professionals with a high level of cultural sensitivity;
• Alignment with CONCORD’s vision, purpose, and values;
• Knowledge of the EU ODA landscape is an advantage.

Timeline
The assignment should be carried out between July and October 2023 (both included). A first draft of the communication strategy should be submitted by early-September. The report will be launched in mid-October 2023.

Budget
Project proposals should not exceed 18,000 EUR.

How to apply
To apply for this post, please upload the following documents (as one file) to the portal below:

• Your CV outlining your relevant expertise to meet this assignment (1 page max);
• Your proposal on how you will undertake this project, including a suggested number of days and their distribution between the different tasks and phases of the work and your day rate (2 pages max);
• A recent writing sample in English.

If you are submitting a group application, please provide:

• The CV for each of the candidates and one single proposal.

The deadline for applications is 7 July at midnight CET.