Project Engagement and Communications Officer Position
SWIFFT Support Team
Offer Description
SWIFFT is seeking a dynamic and creative Project Engagement and Communications Officer to join our transdisciplinary collective. This part-time or full-time position (proposed at 80%, with flexibility to negotiate) is ideal for a candidate who thrives at the intersection of communication, collaboration, and systems thinking. In this role, you will play a vital part in shaping the collective’s narrative, strengthening partnerships, and supporting the implementation of ongoing initiatives — including our “Islands of Hope” projects.
About SWIFFT
The SWIFFT Collective brings together researchers, practitioners, civic society and artists committed to advancing just and sustainable transitions. Centered around four thematic areas and supported by a growing network of collaborators, we aim to help shape a low-carbon society by addressing technological, societal, and financial challenges in Belgium and beyond. Through research, public engagement, and collaborative learning, the SWIFFT collective explores alternative pathways for social and ecological transformation.
Your Role and Responsibilities
- Design and co-create visual materials to translate complex concepts into accessible, engaging content across platforms (e.g. reports, presentations, newsletters, social media, and the SWIFFT website).
- Build a narrative for the collective and its supported projects, and translate it into an effective communication strategy.
- Coordinate communication within the collective and ensure consistent, transparent, and timely exchanges between academic partners and collaborators. This includes facilitating the exchange of information, managing inquiries, and supporting alignment across all levels of the collective.
- Support the planning and delivery of events, from creative concept development to logistical coordination.
- Expand the initiative’s reach through external engagement, representation at events, and identification of relevant funding opportunities.
- Assist with project monitoring and follow-up, helping to track deliverables, timelines, and cross-stream coherence. This includes projects funded by the collective through the “Islands of Hope” calls.
Requirements
- Strong visual communication skills, with experience using design tools (e.g. Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, or similar).
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English (knowledge of Dutch and French are a key plus).
- Alignment with SWIFFT’s mission and familiarity with topics such as sustainable transitions, food systems, the circular economy, energy transition, sustainable mobility, and/or commons-based practices.
- Experience working in collaborative, cross-functional, or interdisciplinary teams.
- Strong organizational and coordination skills, with keen attention to detail and follow-through. Prior experience in project coordination and people management is valuable.
- Experience in planning public forums, workshops, or conferences will be a strong advantage.
- A creative and adaptive mindset, with a readiness to engage in experimental and innovative approaches.
What We Offer
- A contract-based position with flexible working arrangements, including hybrid collaboration and autonomy over your schedule.
- The opportunity to work with a diverse and engaged collective at the forefront of system transitions and social innovation.
- Access to both university campuses, offering a dynamic and inspiring work environment with a variety of coworking spaces.
- A dynamic and supportive space for learning, creativity, and experimentation, with access to university-led training programs to enhance your skills.
- Opportunities for public engagement and visibility through high-level networking and storytelling.
- Remuneration aligned with official university salary scales.
Location
The position is based in Brussels (Belgium), with a combination of remote work and occasional in-person meetings and events. You do not need to be based in a specific city, but proximity for meetings is considered an asset.
Application Process
Interested? Please submit your application in English through the SWIFFT portal using the button below, or send it to juliana.betancur.arenas@vub.be by August 8, including the following documents:
- Your CV
- A brief cover letter explaining your motivation and fit
- (Optional) A portfolio or sample of visual or written work relevant to this role
We value diversity and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences.
Please name your documents following this format: SURNAME-NAME_NameOfTheDocument_position.pdf. (ex.: SURNAME-Name_CV_position.pdf; SURNAME-Name_MotivationLetter_position.pdf)
Start Date
September or October 2025
Questions?
If you have any questions about the position or application process, feel free to reach out to juliana.betancur.arenas@vub.be