Terms of Reference for
Project Coordinators
In East Africa: Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania
Thomson Media based in Berlin, Germany, seeks to engage two-three consultants for coordination of activities and grants program in the Advancing Global Innovation and Learning Effectively to Build Resilience in Independent Media (AGILE) project. The initiative is funded by the European Union and implemented by a consortium led by the Internews Europe along with co-applicants ARTICLE 19, Fojo Media Institute/Linnaeus University, Thomson Media gGmbH and Transtélé Canal France International.
OVERVIEW
We are seeking experienced professionals with a strong background in media and a deep understanding of the media landscape to join Thomson Media on a temporary consultancy basis from June 2026 to June 2027. This role will involve actively contributing to three key phases of the project, during which your expertise will be crucial in shaping our stakeholder engagement, media strategies and grants distribution.
BACKGROUND
This role is part of AGILE Workstream 3: Sustainable Business Models, which includes the Resilience Incubator, Strategic Adaptability Support, and Innovation Grants aimed at strengthening independent media in South and Central America, East Africa, Southeast and Central Asia. The second iteration of the Resilience Incubator and the following activities will be conducted in East Africa: Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
Applicants residing in or from the above countries are strongly encouraged to apply.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Organise and oversee the smooth execution of project activities, including commissioning audience and security assessments, mentoring sessions for newsrooms and grants distribution, ensuring alignment with project goals and timelines.
Manage the translation, publication, and promotion of calls for media participation through relevant local platforms in Spanish and/or Portuguese, ensuring high engagement from targeted countries.
Assess media capacity for participation in Resilience Incubator: evaluate their editorial and operational capacity.
Manage the translation, publication, and promotion of calls for media participation through relevant local platforms in Spanish and/or Portuguese, ensuring high engagement from targeted countries.
Support the selection and onboarding of participants and grantees, ensuring compliance with Thomson Media and EU guidelines and maintaining strong engagement throughout their participation.
Serve as the primary point of contact between participants, expert mentors, and Thomson’s office, facilitating communication and resolving any issues that arise.
Maintain accurate and organized records of project activities, including grant agreements, reporting templates, pre- and post-participation feedback, and financial documentation, ensuring all files are up-to-date and accessible.
Assist with logistics for international travel and events, including booking venues, purchasing tickets, arranging interpretation services, and other event-related tasks.
Review narrative and financial reports submitted by grantees to ensure compliance and alignment with project objectives and guidelines.
Document and highlight success stories, providing insights into the impact of the program and communicating these to key stakeholders.
KEY REQUIREMENTS:
Proven experience in projects coordination, grant administration, financial oversight, and compliance with donor regulations, preferably in media or development projects, at least three years.
Strong coordination skills, ability to oversee multiple grantees, track milestones, and ensure timely reporting of project outcomes.
Confident English (minimum B2 level). Fluency in Kiswahili and/or relevant local languages in Kenya, Tanzania or Uganda is a strong advantage.
Experience with e-form-building software e.g., Google Forms, Jotform, Typeform and data integration tools is required.
Knowledge of independent media challenges, media sustainability, and general media landscape in respective country/region is a considerable advantage.
A university degree in journalism, communication, international relations, or a related field is preferred.
LOCATION
The second iteration of Resilience Incubator covers 3 countries:
• Kenya
• Tanzania
• Uganda
Most of the work can be performed remotely, in country presence can be required for international and local events.
TIMEFRAME
Although the overall contract duration spans from June 2026 to June 2027, we expect full engagement to occur primarily during the key activity periods. During these times, the consultant will be expected to be fully dedicated to supporting and driving the success of each activity.
APPLICATION
To apply, please send your CV along with a brief introduction explaining why you believe you are a strong fit for this position to mea.recruitment@thomsonfoundation.org . In the email subject line, please indicate: AGILE Media Coordinator + country.