The Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) and World Agroforestry (ICRAF) envision a more equitable world where trees in all landscapes, from drylands to the humid tropics, enhance the environment and well-being for all. CIFOR and ICRAF are non-profit science institutions that build and apply evidence to today’s most pressing challenges, including energy insecurity and the climate and biodiversity crises. Over a combined total of 65 years, we have built vast knowledge on forests and trees outside of forests in agricultural landscapes (agroforestry). Using a multidisciplinary approach, we seek to improve lives and to protect and restore ecosystems. Our work focuses on innovative research, partnering for impact, and engaging with stakeholders on policies and practices to benefit people and the planet. Founded in 1993 and 1978, CIFOR and ICRAF are members of CGIAR, a global research partnership for a food secure future dedicated to reducing poverty, enhancing food and nutrition security, and improving natural resources.

Overview

The communications officer will support the development and implementation of a communication strategy to ensure effective communication with key stakeholders, including both internal and external audiences and to raise AWARD’s global and regional profile.

Duties and responsibilities

• Assist in overseeing AWARD’s internal and external communications activities and ensure that they support in building an informed focus on gender-responsive agricultural research in Africa.
• Support the production and implementation of annual communication and knowledge management action plans.
• Conceptualize and develop high quality, brand-compliant, multimedia information products and visual assets including reports, presentations, posters, brochures, press releases, news articles, newsletters, videos, infographics.
• Support media engagement and outreach.
• Maintain AWARD website and other communication platforms as needed.
• Conceptualize and participate in field visits to document AWARD’s work.
• Support the updating and implementation of the social media strategy, expanding AWARD’s online outreach capacity.
• Coordinate production of bi-monthly electronic newsletter: produce and compile content, distribute, maintain mailing lists.
• Track the online footprint and media mentions of AWARD and amplify these where appropriate.
• Provide communications support to AWARD training events and other outreach events
• Support the maintenance of an inventory of AWARD’s information, education and communication materials and communication assets/equipment.
• Assist in maintaining contracts for communications consultants.

Requirements

Education

• A bachelor’s degree in journalism, public relations, communications, or related field, preferably in the development, science, agriculture, or NGO sector.

Language proficiency

• Fluency in English required.
• Proficiency in French is an advantage (highly desired but not required).

Knowledge and experience

• At least five years’ relevant, professional experience in a communications position.

Skills and competencies

• Superior writing and communication skills, with demonstrated experience in producing news articles and other knowledge outputs with professional editorial standards.
• Ability to organize and manage multiple priorities, work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Proven ability to synthesise written outputs for various types of audiences
• Strong self-starter with the initiative to identify opportunities and take appropriate action.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop (the whole Adobe suite).
• Direct, demonstrated experience with and knowledge of:
  • Content management systems- mainly Drupal and WordPress.
  • Online newsletter management.
  • Social networking strategies, networks, tools.
• Displays the highest standards of personal integrity.

Additional Information: (Provide any further information, not included in your previous answers, which you consider would assist others to achieve a better understanding of the job).

Education, knowledge and experience

• A bachelor’s degree in journalism, public relations, communications, or related field, preferably in the development, science, agriculture, or NGO sector.

Terms and conditions

• CIFOR-ICRAF offers a collegial, diverse and gender-sensitive working environment. We strongly encourage applications from qualified women. This is a nationally recruited position for which CIFOR-ICRAF offers competitive remuneration commensurate with skills and experience.

Application process

The application deadline is 09 May-2023
We will acknowledge all applications, but will contact only short-listed candidates.