Higher Education Commission - Tertiary Education Support Program (TESP)
Terms of Reference and Job Specifications for appointment of
Communication Specialist
Background:
To enhance the capacity of Pakistani institutions of higher learning to produce high quality graduates,
support innovation, and improve the overall governance and management of the higher education
sector, the Higher Education Commission is implementing government’s agenda of reforms for which
the World Bank is also extending its support. One Component of the Bank’s support will be for technical
assistance and capacity building activities to address both policy design and capacity constraints to
support the targeted changes for the higher education sector in Pakistan.
Objective:
To implement the TESP Program effectively by providing support to Higher Education Institutions (HEIs)
and affiliated colleges for improving strategic communication channels, services of experienced and
dedicated Communication Specialist are required. The Communication Specialist will be responsible for
all aspects of strategic communications for the TESP Program of the World Bank. S/He will also serve as
the direct supervisor of the communication strategy at HEC and will report directly to the Program
Coordinator.
Essential Job Functions:
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Research, develop and implement a brand and communication strategy that supports the
objectives of the TESP Program.
In consultation with senior management of HEC and the TESP Secretariat Program Coordinator,
develop and implement a strategic communications plan—including goal setting, benchmarks,
and metrics of progress and achievement for TESP Program partners.
Introduce new and creative approaches to marketing and communications content designed to
expand knowledge about the availability of TESP program to key target audiences of prospective
stakeholders, students and applicants.
Develop key messages for all audiences to promote the TESP Program and the donor.
Work with the partner universities to assist them in successful implementation of various
activities of TESP.
Develop and manage the communications budget.
Establish congenial and constructive partnerships and working relationships with internal and
external stakeholders.
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Oversee the writing of press releases, marketing materials, annual reports, advertisements and
other related material.
Manage media relations, research editorial opportunities and build relationships with print and
electronic media.
Serve as direct supervisor of communications team.
Provide weekly reports to Program Coordinator on the status of prioritized communication
activities. Reporting will be both historical and forward looking.
Lead agencies and internal team members where appropriate to execute all communication
activities and public relations.
Qualification and Experience:
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Master’s degree (at least 2nd Division) from an HEC recognized institution of higher learning
preferably in Business, Marketing, Communication or related field and management experience
of 8 years with at least two years of working on international donor funded development or
educational projects. Preference would be given to those who have sound knowledge of
Communication practices of the World Bank. The incumbent should have experience of
Communication methods and approaches, planning, design and implementation of
Communication systems, data and information collection and analysis and repot writing.
Skills and Specific Knowledge Requirements:
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Proven ability to design, develop and implement both strategic communication programs and
supporting tactics.
An expertise in media outreach and excellence in originating and preparing written material –
such as issue briefings, press releases, web content and layout – for use in various
communication media.
Superior written and verbal communication skills, coupled with highly developed interpersonal
skills (English and Urdu required).
Knowledge of public and private sector stakeholders in higher education and an ability to
establish linkages and partnerships.
Familiarity with international best practices in communication strategies
Reporting to:
Program Coordinator of TESP Program
Place of Duty:
Islamabad
Terms of appointment:
Two years contractual appointment reviewed annually and
extendable till completion of the program