Place of Work : Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Ethiopia, Burkina Faso, Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan or Mozambique
Duration : Full-time, permanent
Salary : yearly gross salary in Austria starting with EUR 60.000,00
- A higher salary may be offered based on skills and experience
- Based on the workplace, local terms and conditions will apply, including salary and benefits
Starting date : 01.09.2025
About Us
At Light for the World, we believe in a world where people with disabilities and eye conditions can fully exercise their rights to health, education, work — and protection in emergencies. By ensuring individuals and communities are at the centre and the drivers of change, we spark lasting organisational, policy and systems change on eye health and disability rights. As an employer, we aim to foster a workplace in which individual differences are recognised, appreciated, and respected, in ways that utilise each person’s talents and strengths.
About the role
The Head of Global Communications plays a key part in delivering Light for the World’s mission to spark lasting change on disability rights and eye health. As Head of Global Communications, you will lead the strategic implementation of Light for the World’s 2030 Communications Strategy across all regions. Your role is central to positioning the organization as a global leader in disability rights and eye health, shaping our brand and voice across platforms, and ensuring impactful storytelling that supports our mission, advocacy, fundraising, programming, and visibility goals.
You will oversee a dynamic international team, collaborate with leadership, and provide expert guidance in both planning and day-to-day communications and during critical moments. This role combines strategic leadership with hands-on execution, requiring a strong communicator with a global vision and a commitment to inclusive, ethical, and impactful messaging.
Tasks
Drive the implementation of our 2030 Global Communications Strategy across all regions and offices.Position Light for the World as a leading voice on disability rights and eye health, across global platforms and digital channelsDevelop compelling, ethical communication products that support our mission, advocacy, fundraising, and awareness goalsRefresh and guide our brand identity to reflect our values and amplify our missionLead and mentor the Global Communications & Brand teams across diverse areas, including media, content, advocacy, and internal communicationsCollaborate with national and country teams to align messaging and strategy, and provide expert guidance and supportRepresent communications at the senior management level and advise the leadership team and board on communications mattersPosition our experts, spokespersons, and advocates with lived experience in key media, events, and policy forumsLead the creation of flagship communication products and campaigns that resonate globally and regionallyIn coordination with safeguarding, leadership, and security teams, lead external and internal crisis communicationsProvide risk mitigation strategies and support live crisis response with clarity and confidenceRequirements
At least 10 years of experience in strategic communications or public affairs, with at least 3 years of experience managing staff and budgets, ideally within an international NGO, global advocacy or campaigning organization, or internationally operating mission-driven institutionProven experience and success enhancing organisational and brand visibility, credibility, and influenceStrong partnership, teamwork, and people management skills, with experience working in international and multicultural settings. Experience working with staff with disabilities a plusDemonstrated ability to collaborate across cultures with sensitivity, respect, and inclusion. Experience working with staff with disabilities is an assetStrong writing, editorial and presentation skills. Experience in media engagement, ethical storytelling, and in spokesperson roles a plusHands-on experience in crisis communications, including risk mitigation and rapid response coordinationAbility to plan complex processes, handle multiple tasks and meet tight deadlines. Full professional proficiency (both written and verbal) in English is required. German or French is a plusBenefits
Engage in meaningful work that contributes to disability rights and eye health, making a tangible difference in communities worldwideJoin a diverse, professional team that values participatory leadership, encouraging you to share your expertise and ideasReceive a salary aligned with the national NGO sector, including full social insurance and additional benefitsBenefit from flexible working hours and remote work options to support your work-life balanceWork in a friendly, dynamic, international, and inclusive environment that prioritizes accessibility and values diversityAccess opportunities for continuous learning and growth, with support for exploring innovative ideas, and directionsEnjoy a well-equipped, barrier-free office space designed to accommodate various needsTake advantage of benefits like public transportation subsidies and a culture that supports learning from mistakes as a path to developmentWe are an Equal Opportunity Employer and place a high value on diversity and inclusion in our organization. We welcome and encourage applications from all people regardless of national origin, gender, religion, age, sexual orientation or gender identity, and we very much welcome applications from people with disabilities.
To be hired by Light for the World, you'll need a workpermit in one of the following countries : Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Ethiopia, Burkina Faso, Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan or Mozambique
In an inclusive society, there is a place for everyone. That’s what we work for. With your support we improve health systems in the poorest regions of the world, enable education for all, and amplify the voices of people with disabilities in the workplace and beyond. In short : we break down unjust barriers to unlock the potential in all of us!
