Senior Communications Officer – AWARD

Reference number: 202513
Job status: In-progress
Job category: Local Position
Duty station: Nairobi, Kenya
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CIFOR-ICRAF
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 Senior Communications Officer will play a critical role in advancing the mission and visibility of AWARD. This position is responsible for developing, executing, and evaluating communications strategies and initiatives across various platforms, ensuring alignment with the organization’s goals. The Senior Communications Officer will collaborate with internal teams, stakeholders, and media to promote our work, build partnerships, and engage our audience.

Duties and responsibilities

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1.Strategic Communications Leadership:

• Lead the development and execution of integrated communications strategies to support communication’s goals and ensure alignment with AWARD’s goals and objectives.
• Oversee communications plans for key projects and advise senior leadership on key messaging, and public relations efforts.
• Led the production of strategic reports such as updates for the Steering Committee, donor reports among others.
• Oversee the contracting of communications consultants and support the monitoring of communications budget and other resources.

2.Content Creation and Management:

• Led the development and production of high-quality content including news articles, blog posts, newsletters, press releases, reports, audio visuals and other collateral materials.
• Ensure the content is customized for publication and dissemination across different AWARD’s platforms including the website (s), social media, and other in-person platforms.
• Coordinate production of quarterly electronic newsletters and maintain mailing lists.
• Ensure that all communications materials are consistent with the organization’s branding and marking guidelines.
• Manage content calendars and coordinate the timely delivery of communications across various platforms.

3.Media Outreach:

• Build and maintain relationships with journalists, media agencies and outlets.
• Draft press materials, including press releases, statements, and op-eds, and manage media outreach and inquiries.
• Track media mentions and reach
• Position the organization as a thought leader by securing media placements and interviews.

4.Events management:

• Coordinate the conceptualization and delivery of key stakeholder engagements events including side events at major conferences, and other notable events such as commemoration of International Women’s Day among others.
• Led production of event outputs such as concept notes, guest lists, invitation letters and event reports.
• Represent the organization at external events as needed.

5.Digital and Social Media Strategy:

• Oversee development and implementation of digital communications strategies, including website updates, email marketing campaigns, and social media engagement.
• Oversee website management including timely website review and frequent updates as required.
• Track the online footprint and media mentions of AWARD and amplify these where appropriate.
• Analyze and report on digital performance and metrics to optimize communication strategies.

6.Other Duties & Responsibilities:

• Oversee the communications’ subscriptions to various platforms include graphic design applications, newsletter management platforms, digital tracking among others.
• Support the maintenance of an inventory of AWARD’s information, education and communication materials and communication assets/equipment.
  

Requirements

• A master’s degree in journalism, public relations, communications, or related field, preferably within agricultural research and development and non-profit sector.
• At least ten years’ relevant professional experience in a communications position including at least 2 years in a senior or leadership role.
• Proven track record of creating and executing communications strategies that increase visibility and engagement.
  
  

Education, knowledge and experience

•A master’s degree in journalism, public relations, communications, or related field, preferably within agricultural research and development and non-profit sector.
•At least ten years’ relevant professional experience in a communications position including at least 2 years in a senior or leadership role.
•Proven track record of creating and executing communications strategies that increase visibility and engagement.

Terms and conditions

•This is a Locally Recruited Staff (LRS) position. ICRAF offers competitive remuneration in local currency, commensurate with skills and experience.
•The appointment will be for a period of 2 years, inclusive of a 6-month probationary period, with the possibility of extension contingent upon performance, continued relevance of the position and available resources.
•The duty station will be in Nairobi, Kenya.

Application process

The application deadline is 17 Feb 2025
We will acknowledge all applications, but will contact only short-listed candidates.