Voluntary Internship Communications 2015

About Responding to Conflict (RTC)

Responding to Conflict is a small and dynamic NGO that works to transform violence and build peace. Founded in 1991 we have worked with 1000’s of people from over 70 countries and in some of the world’s most violent conflicts. We provide support and training for people in conflict situations so that they are able to develop the skills they need to build peace in their own communities.

About the role

RTC is offering an exciting opportunity for a talented Communications Intern to gain valuable experience working with a leading UK peacebuilding organisation whilst developing valuable skills in communications and marketing.

As a Communications Intern, you will have a key role in communicating RTC’s work to a range of audiences and engaging their support. This role is not just about filing or stuffing envelopes; we want someone who will bring energy, enthusiasm and initiative to our team. You will be involved in everything from editing the RTC website, updating social media, interviewing, writing articles and putting together newsletters. You will also have the opportunity to develop any of your own ideas through the course of the internship.

Key responsibilities will include

Communications

·  Maintaining and developing social media channels (Facebook/Twitter/LinkedIn)

·  Drafting and uploading copy for the RTC website

·  Putting together the RTC newsletter and send it to members

·  Interviewing people for news items and case studies

·  Working in close collaboration with the Fundraising team to create and promote fundraising events and campaigns

·  Organising mailings and maintaining the contact database

·  Drafting press materials and promoting RTC to the media

·  Promoting RTC’s courses to a wide audience

Other duties

·  Some general administration duties such as answering the phone, responding to course enquiries and welcoming visitors

What skills and abilities will you need to have?

·  Interest in and understanding of social media channels

·  Ability to use own initiative within specified guidelines and work independently but also show ability to work as part of a team

·  Strong organisational skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines and attention to detail

·  Excellent written and verbal communication skills

·  Well versed in Microsoft Office applications and willingness to learn how to use new databases

·  To be creative and enthusiastic

·  Ability to network, influence and build relationships with key individuals and organisations

·  An interest in peacebuilding and enthusiasm for the work of RTC

Desirable experience

·  Experience of producing effective communications materials e.g. writing articles for a range of different audiences

·  Experience of using social media for professional purposes

·  Experience of marketing communications


What you will gain

·  Hands-on experience of writing communications materials

·  Experience of organising and coordinating communications

·  Experience of how an international NGO works and opportunities to learn about practical peacebuilding

·  Enhance your CV and gain written references at the end of your placement

·  Most importantly this role has the potential to make a real difference to the organisation and will give you an opportunity to see how your work can have a direct impact on RTC and the people we work with

The internship is 3 days a week, for a period of six months including a one month probationary period. It will be based at our office in south-west Birmingham. The role is unpaid but local travel in Birmingham and a lunch allowance is provided (max. £8 per day.)

Please note that we are unable to meet relocation expenses. You must have permission to work in the UK.

The closing date for this post is Sunday 15th November. Interviews will be held on Wednesday 18th November. The starting date will be Monday 30th November.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, so that we reflect the vibrant diversity of today’s society.

How to apply
Please send your CV and a detailed cover letter to Rebecca Wherrell at explaining how you meet the specific skills and experience needed for this role and why you want to work with RTC as an intern. In addition, we would be pleased to receive examples of your previous marketing communications work, e.g. articles or newsletters that you think will support your application.

Due to the volume of applications we receive and in order to ensure the best stewardship of our resources, please assume you have not been successful with your application if you have not heard from us within one week of the positions closing date.