About the role

Project Director leading strategic communications programme focused on countering disinformation at Zinc Network. Managing teams and ensuring impactful delivery of the programme across Central Asia.

Responsibilities

Provide overall strategic leadership, management, and technical direction for the programme, serving as the primary liaison with donor and partners;
Lead the design and delivery of evidence-based communication interventions to counter disinformation and violent extremist narratives;
Oversee the development of strategies, work plans, and results frameworks aligned with donor priorities and regional needs;
Manage cross-functional teams – including strategists, researchers, creatives, digital specialists, and regional partners – ensuring effective collaboration and knowledge integration;
Represent Zinc Network to government counterparts, civil society partners, and international stakeholders across Central Asia;
Oversee project implementation, budget management, and risk mitigation to ensure timely and compliant delivery;
Ensure consistent application of safeguarding, security, and ethical communication principles;
Provide senior oversight on reporting, MEL, and donor engagement, ensuring delivery of high-quality outputs and learning;
Contribute to thought leadership and knowledge sharing within the broader strategic communications and counter-FIMI community.

Bachelor’s or master’s degree, or equivalent industry experience in communications, international development, security studies, behavioural science, or a related field;
Senior-level experience managing international, donor-funded programmes (FCDO, USAID, EU, UN, or similar);
Proven record in delivering strategic communications, counter-disinformation, or CVE programming, ideally in fragile or sensitive contexts;
Demonstrated experience leading large, multi-disciplinary teams and managing complex budgets and compliance frameworks;
Regional knowledge and professional experience in Central Asia, with understanding of political, media, and cultural dynamics;
Strong track record in stakeholder engagement and partnership management, including with governments, civil society, and media organisations;
Experience applying behavioural science and audience insights to design communication interventions;
Excellent leadership, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to adapt to rapidly changing operational environments;
Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, including experience presenting to donors and high-level stakeholders;
Data-first mindset, with comfort using analytics, media monitoring, and audience insight tools to guide strategy and decision-making;
Working proficiency in Russian or a Central Asian language is advantageous.