Storyteller / Health Communications Writer

Organizational Overview

Smile Train is the world’s leading cleft focused organization. Our goal is to transform the lives of every person impacted by a cleft lip or palate. We train and support doctors and medical professionals to provide our patients with free, life-changing, comprehensive cleft treatment. Our sustainable model has allowed us to reach more than 2 million children in 90+ countries in the past 25 years, and we still feel like we’ve just started. We are truly changing the world one smile at a time!

Make a Difference!

As Smile Train’s Storyteller/Health Communications writer, you will serve as support to the organization’s communications outputs, increase our brand’s visibility, and establish and maintain a strong positive image of Smile Train. In this position, you will be responsible for consistently improving and implementing communications strategies and internal and external communications to bolster the brand’s reputation.

Other duties you will assume include identifying favorable press opportunities, creating internal communications protocols to ensure the efficient flow of information, and reaching out to influencers and other media representatives to secure coverage of the company’s programs, campaigns, and initiatives. Being able to develop creative articles and stories is highly appreciable.

Reports To

Senior Manager, PR and Communications- Africa

  Key Responsibilities

• Based on guidelines from the Senior Communications Officer, develop a high-impact media relations strategy to build the brand profile and strengthen the organization’s reputation
• Generate written and digital materials for presentations and promotional events—pitches, press releases, talking points
• Generate thought leadership articles for publication in strategic traditional and digital outlets
• Support the development of a wide range of campaigns that raise brand awareness and promote individual products, services, and events within Smile Train
• Assist in the research of reporters, media outlets, and publicity opportunities to secure media coverage
• Create and maintain media lists, press contacts, and email distribution lists to foster positive relations with traditional and digital media representatives
• Monitor, analyse and communicate PR results on a regular basis
• Plan and coordinate events aimed at creating relationships and favorable impressions with the public and Smile Train’s ecosystem
• Keep the PR team informed of industry trends that directly impact Smile Train’s work, and adapting strategies as necessary

 Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate has… 

• Knowledge of and experience in communications, public relations and /or marketing;
• A natural, empathetic storyteller with ace communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to work under pressure in a fast paced and multi-timeline environment, with self-direction and limited supervision;
• Demonstrated skills in assessing and implementing communications strategy in large institutions;
• Experience in designing and implementing short, long-term strategic marketing and/or PR plans;
• Ability to work under pressure and meet urgent deadlines;
• Ability to work in a multi-cultural environment; and
• Demonstrate Smile Train’s core values. At Smile Train, we believe EVERYONE plays a vital role in advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, and accessibility across the organization. As a staff member, you will contribute to fostering equity and a sense of belonging among our staff and the people we serve.

Required Education and Experience

• A Bachelor’as degree in Communications, Marketing, English, Public Relations or a related field;
• Minimum five (5) years of experience in Corporate Communications or related field.
• Fluency in written and spoken English and French;
• Proficiency in applications such as Microsoft Office

Preferred Education and Experience

• A Master’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, journalism, Marketing or a related field will be an added advantage;
• Experience in healthcare in Africa is preferred
• Experience in development in Africa is preferred;
• Experience in using Canva or any video/audio editing software

Additional Eligibility Qualifications

• Excellent interpersonal and communication (oral, written, presentation) skills;

Compensation

$1500-1800 USD Monthly

Travel

• Ability to work across countries and travel extensively

Why You'll Love Working Here

Smile Train team members enjoy a full range of innovative benefits...

Meaningful Work – Be part of work that creates meaningful, lasting impact — changing the world one smile at a time.

We’ve Got You Covered – Enjoy a generous stipend towards medical expenses to help prioritize the health of you and your family.

Rest and Recharge - Enjoy a generous vacation package, paid holidays, and sick time so you can rest, recharge, and return feeling your best.

Family Matters - We support employees through life’s most important moments with paid parental leave, giving you time and flexibility for the people who matter most.

Learn and Grow - Take advantage of an annual professional development stipend and opportunities to expand your skills and continue learning.

Work Your Way – Thrive with a remote work model built for connection, balance, and impact.

Travel the World – See our impact firsthand while partnering with global colleagues and programs through opportunities for domestic and international travel.

Application Process

Smile Train is an equal opportunity employer, committed to inclusive hiring and dedicated to diversity in our work and staff. We strongly encourage candidates from all groups and communities to apply.

To apply, please complete the application online. Include your CV and a cover letter explaining why you would be a good fit for Smile Train and this role. Only those who provide a cover letter as directed will be considered. We encourage interested applicants to submit their applications as soon as possible.