Job Description
Title: Associate, Writing & Thought Leadership
Team: Communications, Marketing & Events
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
About the Role
The Associate, Writing & Thought Leadership supports the development of clear, credible, and compelling written content that advances Shamiri’s institutional voice and the thought leadership of its senior leaders. The role translates complex ideas, research, and strategy into accessible written outputs for diverse audiences.
Roles and responsibilities
- Thought Leadership Writing Support
- Support senior leaders (e.g., CEO, CGSO, senior researchers) in developing written thought leadership content
- Draft, edit, and refine content:
- Op-eds and articles
- Blog posts and essays
- Speeches and remarks
- LinkedIn posts and long-form threads
- Press releases and media-related content
- Translate verbal ideas, notes, or outlines into polished written pieces
- Ensure writing reflects the leader’s voice while aligning with organizational messaging
- Research & Evidence Translation
- Work closely with Research & Learning to translate research findings into accessible written formats
- Draft:
- Research summaries
- Policy briefs
- Blog posts and explainers
- Ensure accuracy, clarity, and appropriate framing of evidence
- Adapt technical content for non-technical audiences
- Organizational & Strategic Writing
- Support writing of internal and external materials, including:
- Strategy summaries
- Concept notes
- Donor briefs
- Organizational updates
- Assist in drafting materials for Board engagement and high-level stakeholders
- Edit and proofread leadership-facing documents for clarity and tone
- Editorial Coordination & Workflow
- Maintain a pipeline of writing projects with clear timelines and owners
- Coordinate with Brand & Creative Lead to align written content with visual outputs
- Ensure version control and documentation of drafts and final pieces
- Incorporate feedback efficiently and accurately
- Quality Control & Voice Consistency
- Ensure consistency in tone, language, and narrative across written outputs
- Apply editorial standards and fact-checking practices
- Flag inconsistencies or risks in public-facing content
- Ownership of Outputs & Accountability
- Drafting and editing written thought leadership content
- Research summaries and accessible written outputs
- Written materials supporting leadership, fundraising, and partnerships
- Timely delivery of drafts and revisions
- Maintaining clarity, accuracy, and coherence in assigned outputs
Key competencies - Strong writing and editing skills
- Ability to synthesize complex information clearly
- Excellent attention to detail and accuracy
- Ability to write in multiple tones and adapt to different voices
- Strong organizational and time-management skills
- Comfort working with senior leadership and sensitive material
- Ability to incorporate feedback constructively
Qualifications - Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public policy, social sciences, or related field
- 1–3+ years of experience in writing, communications, research support, or editorial roles
- Strong writing portfolio demonstrating clarity and range
- Experience in social impact, research, policy, or nonprofit settings preferred
- High-quality written outputs delivered on time
