Consultant - Project Manager for the Development of the Publishing Sector and Reading Promotion

Organizational Context

Ukraine's publishing and reading sector is undergoing significant transformation, driven by cultural resilience, post-war recovery, and a reinforced national identity. The demand for Ukrainian-language literature has surged, making the development of a strong reading culture a national priority. The Ministry of Culture is responsible for policy implementation in reading promotion and publishing. The "Reading as a Life Strategy" initiative outlines a long-term vision for embedding reading culture through various societal engagement channels.

Job Purpose

This consultancy aims to strengthen institutional capacity within the Ministry of Culture of Ukraine by engaging a dedicated Project Manager. The role is crucial for translating strategic priorities into measurable outcomes, particularly concerning the "Reading as a Life Strategy" initiative. The Project Manager will provide essential project coordination and communication management support to the Deputy Minister's office. This involves overseeing the planning, implementation, monitoring, and reporting of key initiatives. The position requires a strong focus on communication impact and public visibility, ensuring effective engagement with a wide range of stakeholders, including government bodies, international partners, and cultural institutions, to foster a robust publishing and reading ecosystem.

Responsibilities

The Project Manager will provide comprehensive project coordination and communication management support to the Office of the Deputy Minister, ensuring effective planning, implementation, monitoring, and reporting of key initiatives under the Reading Development Strategy. This includes developing and maintaining project plans, timelines, and workstreams; coordinating the National Reading Survey and disseminating its findings; and supporting the planning and coordination of national and international conferences, forums, and public events. The role involves coordinating Ukraine's participation in major international book fairs and literary events, and liaising closely with the Ukrainian Book Institute to ensure alignment with Ministry priorities. Additionally, the Project Manager will develop and implement stakeholder communication plans, prepare communication materials, coordinate media engagement, and facilitate interagency coordination. Monitoring frameworks and KPI dashboards will be designed and maintained, alongside the preparation of regular progress reports and analytical summaries. The role also includes contributing to policy documents and performing other assigned tasks related to the Reading Development Strategy.

Work Experience

A minimum of 7 years of professional experience in communications, public relations, or project management within the public or non-governmental sector is necessary. Proven experience in developing and implementing communication strategies for complex, multi-stakeholder programs, managing large-scale public initiatives, and working with government institutions or international organizations is highly desirable.

Skills

Essential skills include strong project management and coordination abilities, encompassing planning, timeline management, KPI development, and performance monitoring. The candidate must possess the ability to produce high-quality analytical, policy, and communication materials. Excellent interpersonal and stakeholder engagement skills, along with strong analytical thinking and the capacity to apply evidence-based approaches, are also crucial.

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