Head, Public Affairs

About the role

The Head of Public Affairs will lead the strategic communication and media engagement for the Ghana National Association of Private Schools. Reporting to senior management, this role oversees all public‑affairs activities across the Accra and Tema regions, ensuring the Association’s voice is effectively represented.

Key responsibilities

• Plan, develop and implement a comprehensive strategic communication plan.
• Coordinate all media activities of the Association and act as the primary media contact.
• Train regional, district and local officers on effective media handling.
• Monitor the daily media landscape and manage issues affecting the Association.
• Brief senior management regularly on media matters and devise response strategies.
• Serve as editor‑in‑chief for in‑house magazines, journals, press releases, case studies, speeches and annual reports.
• Supervise the creation of publicity documents and audiovisual materials.
• Ensure the Association’s website is current, accurate and well‑maintained.
• Supervise and appraise the performance of direct reports.
• Perform any other duties assigned by the General Secretary.

Required profile

• Master’s degree in communications, public policy, public relations, international relations or a related field.
• Minimum 10 years progressive experience in public affairs, public relations, government relations, media relations or strategic communications.
• Age between 40 and 55 years.
• Proven track record of influencing public policy and managing complex stakeholder environments.
• Exceptional leadership, negotiation and interpersonal skills.
• Strong media acumen and experience in high‑stakes communication.
• Successful completion of a competitive selection interview.
• Professional certification with the Institute of Public Relations Ghana (Associate Member or higher) – preferred.
• Professional teacher and GNAT membership – advantageous.
• GNES members at Assistant Director rank – advantageous.
• GNAT in‑service staff with at least 3 years of internal experience – advantageous.

Required skills