HEAD OF COMMUNICATIONS – Hyphen Hydrogen Energy (Pty) Ltd 420 views

Hyphen Hydrogen Energy (Pty) Ltd is a Namibian registered green hydrogen development company, specifically formed to develop green hydrogen projects in Namibia for international, regional and domestic supply. Hyphen is a joint venture between Nicholas Holdings Limited and ENERTRAG SE. Hyphens project is being developed as the first step in the implementation of the Governments strategy for the development of a large-scale green hydrogen industry in various regions in Namibia to support both economic growth in Namibia and assist the world in achieving its decarbonisation goals. At full scale development, the project will produce 2 million tonnes of green ammonia annually before the end of the decade for regional and global markets, from ~7GW of renewable generation capacity and ~3GW of electrolyser capacity, cutting 5-6 million tonnes (annually) of CO2 emissions, with Namibias annual 2021 emissions totalling 4.01 million tonnes.

ABOUT THE ROLE:

Hyphen is thrilled to announce a unique opportunity for an exceptional individual to join our team as the Head of Communications and Stakeholder Relations to be based in Windhoek, Namibia. This senior leadership position offers a chance to shape the future of our organization and drive impactful communication strategies. As the Head of Communications and Stakeholder Relations, you will develop and execute strategic communication initiatives to enhance our brand presence, drive engagement, strengthen relationships with our valued stakeholders and effectively manage internal and external communications. This is a dynamic and influential position that requires a strategic mindset, exceptional leadership abilities, and a deep understanding of the ever-evolving media terrain. Your proven ability to navigate complex landscapes, deliver impactful messaging, and engage diverse audiences would make you an invaluable addition to our team.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Strategic Communication Planning:

1. 1. • Develop and execute comprehensive communication strategies aligned with Hyphens corporate strategy, project messaging and objectives, both within Namibia and in key external markets.
      • Identify key messages and target audiences to effectively promote the project’s initiatives and milestones ensuring that these ladder to Hyphens corporate strategy set at Board level.
      • Conduct market intelligence analysis to gain insights into the communications landscape, local stakeholder dynamics, and political environment in Namibia. Using this information to inform communication strategies and adapt messaging as necessary.
      • Stay updated on local media trends, including print, broadcast, and digital platforms, to identify opportunities for media engagement to gauge public sentiment and perception. Ensuring that this market intelligence is then distributed to the relevant team members at Hyphen and supporting agencies.
      • Stay updated on international decarbonization objectives and green hydrogen developments to identify opportunities for media engagement similar to those in Namibia.

Public Relations Management:

1. 1. • Establish and maintain relationships primarily in Namibia with key media outlets, journalists and other relevant stakeholders to facilitate positive coverage of Hyphen and to effectively manage media relations.
      • Manage media inquiries and provide timely and accurate information.
      • Be proactive in identifying misleading or false media reports and ensure these are corrected in a timely manner. Develop press releases, media kits, and other communication materials to enhance project visibility and positive media coverage.
      • Organize press conferences, media events, and interviews to effectively communicate project updates and achievements.
      • Act as a spokesperson for the project when engaging with local and international media, ensuring accurate and consistent messaging is delivered to both local and global audiences.
      • Ensure that relevant spokespeople for Hyphen are well trained with media and comfortable communicating Hyphens messaging externally.

Government Interface:

1. 1. • Liaise with government authorities at all levels, fostering strong relationships and ensuring alignment on project communications and public relations strategies.
      • Liaise with government representatives to facilitate the timely execution of tasks outlined in the Feasibility and Implementation Agreement.
      • Monitor government policies, regulations, and initiatives relevant to the project and provide strategic advice to project leaders.
      • Collaborate closely with Governments internal public relations team and external communications and public relations advisors to ensure alignment of strategy and messaging between Government and Hyphen and across the project.
      • Jointly coordinate media events such as joint press conferences, social media messaging, project updates and key milestones.
      • Jointly coordinate crises management / negative media.

Stakeholder Engagement:

1. 1. • Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to identify communication needs and develop targeted messaging.
      • Plan and execute engagement programs with community organizations, civil society organizations, industry partners, and other relevant stakeholders.
      • Ensure clear and consistent communication channels are established to facilitate ongoing dialogue and feedback.
      • Ensuring Hyphens stakeholder database is kept up to date, in collaboration with Hyphens supporting agencies.

Crisis Communication:

1. 1. • Develop crisis communication plans and protocols to address potential challenges or emergencies that may impact the project.
      • Serve as the primary spokesperson, as directed by the Board and/or CEO, during crisis situations.

External advisors:

1. • Collaborate closely with Hyphens external communications and public relations strategic advisor firms, mainly local, but also international, to leverage their expertise and insights in developing effective communication strategies and campaigns.
   • Coordinate with these advisor firms to ensure alignment with project objectives and to leverage their networks and resources for enhanced project visibility.
   • Act as the primary liaison between the project team and the external advisor firms, facilitating seamless communication and coordination.
   • Provide guidance and direction to the advisor firms, ensuring their work aligns with the project’s messaging and goals.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field. A Master’s degree is preferred.
• Proven track record of at least 10 years experience in communications, stakeholder management and public relations, preferably in the energy or sustainable development sector.
• Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities, with the capacity to navigate complex issues and make informed decisions.
• Demonstrated expertise in strategic communication planning, media relations, and crisis management.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information in a clear and compelling manner.
• Proficiency in developing and implementing digital communication strategies across various platforms.
• Extensive experience in stakeholder management, including engagement with media, government officials, and community leaders.
• Strong understanding of government structures and processes, with experience in interfacing with government authorities.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Proactive mindset, with the ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of the hydrogen industry and renewable energy landscape is desirable.
• Fluency in English is required; knowledge of local languages in Namibia is an advantage.

CLOSING DATE: Monday, 10th of July 2023.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

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