Communications Specialist

About SDM

The Democracy and Media Foundation (SDM) was founded by the courageous individuals who launched the underground resistance newspaper*Het Parool*during World War II. This history instills in us a deep-rooted understanding that the democratic rule of law and a healthy, free press require constant attention and support. Together, they form the foundation of a free, just, and open society, in which the equality of all citizens is guaranteed.

SDM is committed to fostering a strong and diverse media landscape that enables our democratic constitutional state to function effectively, and to encouraging meaningful dialogue and reflection on the democracy of tomorrow and the day after. In doing so, SDM focuses primarily on protecting a robust media infrastructure, fostering a reflective media sector that continually reinvents itself, and enabling innovative content that nourishes public discourse on the future of our liberal democracy.

As a shareholder with a mission-driven focus in DPG Media andDe Correspondent, SDM safeguards the independence and diversity of journalistic media production. In addition, SDM organizes various (closed) meetings for journalists and media professionals, and stimulates public debate by actively bringing important developments to the forefront. Where relevant, SDM invests in initiatives that contribute to its mission.

About the role

As a Communications Specialist, you will help shape the way SDM presents, positions, and communicates itself. You will translate knowledge, research, and activities into engaging content for various target audiences, thereby playing a key role in successfully communicating SDM’s mission and strategy.

In this role, you will coordinate projects that strengthen our external communications and public profile. For example, SDM will be revamping its website as part of the new strategic policy period, which will also include a revised annual report. In this role, you will also be responsible for actively sharing knowledge and expertise on media for democracy, for example through newsletters and SDM’s online channels. You will prepare contributions for panels and lectures, maintain valuable relationships, and create impactful content. You enjoy working on multiple projects simultaneously, are driven, have an affinity for SDM’s objectives, and derive pleasure from connecting content and form, as well as from creating clarity and structure. You are flexible, enjoy collaborating, actively contribute ideas, and bring an open-minded approach to an organization in development. Writing is an important part of your work, but you also enjoy developing other types of content that contribute to raising SDM’s profile.

Main Activities

• Strategic positioning: helping to develop and monitor SDM’s strategic positioning, and identifying opportunities in this area.
• Content creation and editing: translating knowledge, research, and activities into engaging content for various target audiences. Writing copy for social media, the website, and newsletters, and drafting opinion pieces. Reviewing and editing content written by colleagues.
• Project Coordination: coordinating multiple projects simultaneously, monitoring progress, and promptly resolving or identifying any bottlenecks. In the short term, we plan to launch an Instagram page, translate knowledge and research into shareable content, create video and visual content, and distribute thematic newsletters. We will also be updating the website and the annual report. You will play a key role in these efforts.
• Networking: Maintaining contact with a wide range of external parties and suppliers. Ensuring a smooth transition from conceptual ideas to practical implementation, for example by assigning in-house content to freelance writers, directing photographers, and preparing the content for coffee meetings, panels, lectures, and gatherings.

Qualifications

• A college-level education and/or work experience, preferably in communication, media, journalism, or a related field.
• At least three to five years of experience as a communications specialist or in a similar role with a focus on content development.
• Knowledge of and experience with social media, content strategy, and digital communication.
• Knowledge of photography, video, and image editing is a plus.
• Creative and proactive in translating complex content and information into accessible content.
• Strong collaboration skills, both internally and with external parties.
• An interest in the fields of journalism, media, democracy, and the rule of law.
• Excellent command of Dutch and English.

Skills

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• The ability to work independently andhands-onwhile also collaborating effectively within a team and with a diverse network of stakeholders.
• Strong organizational and planning skills; ability to coordinate multiple projects simultaneously.
• Translate content into concrete activities and formats.
• Comfortable with an open and flexible work environment where not everything is set in stone.
• Coordinate: Maintain an overview and ensure that processes involving multiple parties run smoothly.

What we offer

• A 32-hour-per-week position (0.8 FTE) with a one-year employment contract, with the intention of extending it if performance is satisfactory.
• 8% vacation pay, a travel allowance, a pension plan, and excellent training and development opportunities.
• A laptop and reimbursement of phone expenses.
• A workspace in the heart of Amsterdam.
• A gross salary between €4,300 and €5,800 based on a 40-hour workweek. Salary will be determined based on experience.

Interested in applying?

If this profile sounds like you and you’re interested in the position, we look forward to receiving your application. Please send a cover letter and resume as PDF files to solliciteren@sdm.nl. Would you like to know more about the position or the application process? Please contact Mieke de Vos, Head of Strategy & Organization, at m.devos@sdm.nl.

The deadline for applications is December 31, 2025. The first round of interviews will take place during the week of January 12. An assessment may be part of the process.

As an organization, SDM aims to reflect society and is actively seeking new colleagues who will enhance the diversity of our team.