Communication and Storytelling Manager at Dikan

Dikan

Accra
Permanent
Full-time

29 days ago

Job DescriptionAbout DikanDikan is not just an institution-we are a movement shaping the future of Africa through the power of story. As a bold nonprofit based in Accra, Dikan leads the continent in visual education, archival preservation, exhibitions, and creative leadership development. We are home to Africa's largest photography library, the visionary Awo Institute, the Ahenfie Museum redefining the African museum experience, and an ecosystem of fast-growing creative ventures. Our mission is simple but urgent: to make African stories visible, powerful, and transformative.Position SummaryWe are hiring a Communication and Storytelling Manager to lead and elevate Dikan's voice across Africa and the world. This is not a traditional comms role. We are looking for a story architect, a strategic mind, and a culture shaper-someone who lives and breathes the power of narrative to move hearts, shift culture, and build institutions.You will lead Dikan's growing communications team and drive bold, high-impact storytelling for our organization and our partners. With strong agency experience, you know how to work fast, lead cross-functional teams, manage complex client demands, and deliver excellence on every platform-from print to digital, from campaigns to crisis moments.What You Will DoStrategic Vision & Narrative Leadership

Build and execute a continentally relevant and globally resonant communications strategy that positions Dikan as Africa's thought leader in culture, education, and visual storytelling.
Shape Dikan's narrative across all channels-website, press, events, social media, editorial, and campaigns.
Serve as the institution's storytelling lead-identifying stories, building narrative arcs, and transforming complex programs into compelling content.

Brand Stewardship

Maintain and strengthen Dikan's visual and verbal identity across all programs, platforms, and ventures.
Ensure brand consistency while adapting messaging to various audiences-donors, partners, media, and the public.
Cultivate a strong public image for Dikan's leadership and key initiatives, including fellowships, exhibitions, and partner programs.

Team Leadership & Content Direction

Lead and mentor a dynamic in-house team of writers, designers, digital producers, and social media leads.
Build systems for content planning, reviews, and performance measurement.
Commission, review, and approve all major storytelling materials: profiles, impact stories, newsletters, videos, social media campaigns, and speeches.

Agency-Style Execution & Client Coordination

Manage high-level communications for Dikan's creative subsidiaries (e.g., 55 Thrones, Loom & Reed) and external client projects.
Oversee timelines, creative briefs, content approvals, and delivery for campaigns in fast-paced environments.
Serve as the key liaison with partner organizations and clients-translating institutional goals into strategic, brand-aligned messaging.

Crisis Communication & Media Relations

Lead Dikan's reputation management strategies and prepare responses during crises or sensitive moments.
Build and maintain media relationships-placing stories, securing interviews, and elevating Dikan's voice in public discourse.
Draft high-stakes communications, speeches, and executive remarks with precision and cultural insight.

What We're Looking ForMust-Have Experience

Minimum 6-10 years in strategic communications, media, PR, or storytelling roles-at least 4 years in an agency or client-facing leadership role.
Proven success managing campaigns, high-stakes messaging, and cross-functional teams.
Exceptional storytelling ability-writing, editing, content strategy-with a keen eye for narrative structure and tone.
Experience in African, diasporic, or Global South storytelling contexts.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience working in arts, education, nonprofit, or cultural heritage sectors.
Background in journalism, creative writing, media production, or campaign development.
Deep knowledge of African social and cultural issues and the role of narrative in transformation.

Who You Are

A visionary communicator who thinks strategically and delivers tactically.
A bold, culturally grounded storyteller who honors nuance and complexity.
A leader who builds systems, inspires teams, and holds a high bar for excellence.
A collaborator who can juggle multiple projects and stakeholders while staying mission-aligned.
A believer in the power of African stories to shape global futures.

Closing Date: 27th May, 2025HOW TO APPLYSend your CV, cover letter, and 2-3 storytelling samples or portfolio links to [people@dikancenter.org] with the subject: Application - Communication and Storytelling Manager.

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