African Futures Lab Communication Lead Job 2026: Remote Communications Leadership Opportunity in Africa and Europe

Overview

The African Futures Lab (AfaLab) is hiring a Communication Lead on a full-time 18-month contract with possible extension. The role is remote and open to professionals based in Africa and Europe. AfaLab was founded by two Black women after the global Black Lives Matter protests of 2020 and works for racial justice and reparatory justice for Africans and Afro-descended people worldwide, combining research, advocacy, knowledge exchange and partnerships. Its focus areas include racial justice, reparations, gender rights, climate justice, socio-economic inequalities and policy advocacy, and it is expanding its work as the African Union Decade of Reparations (2026-2036) begins.

What the role involves

The Communication Lead puts the new communications strategy into practice, working with the Executive Director, programme teams and partners. Duties include developing annual and quarterly plans and editorial calendars, managing the website, newsletter, LinkedIn and Instagram, keeping organisational messaging consistent, advising programme teams, setting performance indicators and preparing reports. The lead also creates written and visual content, storytelling and advocacy campaigns, supports publication launches and events, maintains the visual identity, builds relationships with journalists, writes press releases and media briefings, keeps media and stakeholder databases, builds partnerships with advocacy organisations and uses analytics to measure impact.

Requirements

Applicants need a master's degree in communications, journalism, political science, international relations or a related field, or equivalent experience, and at least five years of professional communications experience, including developing strategies, managing integrated campaigns and communicating research, policy or advocacy. Experience with civil society, think tanks, international or philanthropic organisations is an advantage. Skills include writing and editing, digital storytelling, social media and website management, newsletters, analytics, Canva, Adobe Creative Suite and video editing tools. Excellent English and professional-level French for creating and editing materials are required. The ideal candidate thrives in a small team, takes initiative and is passionate about racial justice, and women are particularly encouraged to apply. Occasional travel and periodic in-person team meetings are expected.

How to apply

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submission is encouraged.

Key dates

The deadline is 15 August 2026, and the start date is as soon as possible.