CIMMYT is a cutting edge, non-profit, international organization dedicated to solving tomorrow’s problems today. It is entrusted with fostering improved quantity, quality, and dependability of production systems and basic cereals such as maize, wheat, triticale, sorghum, millets, and associated crops through applied agricultural science, particularly in the Global South, through building strong partnerships. This combination enhances the livelihood trajectories and resilience of millions of resource-poor farmers, while working towards a more productive, inclusive, and resilient agrifood system within planetary boundaries.

For more information, visit cimmyt.org.

CIMMYT is looking for an outstanding, self-motivated, and result-oriented professional for the position of Communications Manager, to work act as the operational leader within our HQ Communications Team, overseeing day-to-day communications activities and ensuring effective, high-quality content delivery.

The location of this position will be CIMMIT HQ’s, Texcoco, Mexico.

Specific duties:

• HQ Operations and Project Management:
• Oversee daily operations within HQ’s Communications Team, implementing project management tools and frameworks to streamline workflows.
• Manage timelines, budgets, and deliverables for HQ communications, ensuring efficiency and alignment with CIMMYT’s global messaging standards.
• Coordinate across Content and Press, Digital Content, and Editorial and Design teams to ensure cohesive and timely campaign execution.
• Campaign Coordination and Execution:
• Lead the planning, execution, and monitoring of HQ-led communications projects and campaigns, ensuring each is well-coordinated across press and digital platforms.
• Work closely with the Content and Press Manager to develop high-quality materials for press outreach, thought leadership content, and traditional media.
• Partner with the Digital Content Manager to create engaging digital content, including social media assets, multimedia content, and digital advertising, that complements and enhances press efforts.
• Internal Communications:
• Develop and oversee internal communications strategies that engage, inform, and align CIMMYT’s global staff with organizational goals and initiatives.
• Collaborate with the Internal Communications Team to create updates, newsletters, and other internal materials that foster a strong organizational culture and keep staff informed of strategic priorities.
• Implement feedback mechanisms to gauge employee engagement and identify areas for improvement in internal messaging and communications tools.
• Quality Control and Brand Consistency:
• Act as the final checkpoint for HQ-produced content, ensuring consistency with CIMMYT’s brand and messaging standards.
• Maintain quality control across campaign assets, press materials, and digital content, ensuring each aligns with campaign objectives, tone, and organizational voice.
• Support the development and maintenance of content templates, guidelines, and best practices to enhance consistency and efficiency across HQ outputs.
• Collaboration and Cross-Functional Coordination:
• Coordinate a unified campaign calendar with both the Content and Press Manager and Digital Content Manager, aligning HQ and regional campaign timelines for maximum impact.
• Schedule regular check-ins to ensure smooth progress, address content gaps, and synchronize press and digital launches to create cohesive messaging across all platforms.
• Act as a bridge between HQ and regional communications offices to support decentralized efforts while maintaining CIMMYT’s brand integrity.
• Campaign Performance and Continuous Improvement:
• Collaborate with the Digital Content Manager to review analytics from digital channels, gather insights on campaign performance, and adjust strategies as needed.
• Assess media coverage and engagement with the Content and Press Manager to inform future campaign improvements and optimize press impact.

Requirements

• Experience of minimum 10 years in communications, with strong experience, internal communications, and campaign execution. Nonprofit or international development experience is preferred.
• Exceptional project management skills, with proficiency in tools like Microsoft Planner or similar platforms.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities to manage multiple concurrent projects and deadlines effectively.
• Demonstrated experience collaborating across traditional and digital communications platforms.
• Highest level of English proficiency required, with exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Highly organized, proactive, and adaptable, with strong leadership capabilities and a collaborative approach.
• The selected candidate should exhibit the following competencies: Client Orientation, Critical and Creative Thinking, Problem Solving and Decision Making, Teamwork, and Communication.

The position is for an initial fixed term of three (3) years, after which further employment is subject to performance and the continued availability of funds. CIMMYT’s internationally competitive salary and benefits include housing allowance, car, comprehensive health and life insurance, assistance for children’s education, paid vacation, annual home travel airfare, contribution to a retirement plan, and generous assistance with relocation shipment.

Benefits

Candidates must apply online for IRS24153_ Communications Manager.

Screening and follow up of applications will begin on January 20th, 2024.

Applications must include a CV with contact details (telephone and email address) of 3 work-related references along with the confirmation that Recruitment can contact them) and a cover letter.

Incomplete applications will not be taken into consideration.

Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

This position will remain open until filled.

CIMMYT is an equal opportunity employer. It fosters a multicultural work environment that values gender equality, teamwork, and respect for diversity. Women are encouraged to apply.