Organizational Setting

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency leading agrifood systems transformation. With 194 Member States, FAO works in more than 130 countries worldwide. The FAO Representation Office in Antananarivo covers the Indian Ocean Island States of Comoros, Madagascar, Mauritius and Seychelles, under a multi-accreditation scheme.
FAO interventions in these countries are guided by country-specific Country Programming Frameworks (CPFs), aligned with national government programmes, the respective UNSDCFs, the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC) regional priorities, other regional bodies’ visions and initiatives, and the FAO Strategic Framework (4Bs) in alignment with the SDGs. CPFs across the four countries are implemented on different cycles and are revised or developed in line with national planning processes and respective UNSDCF periods. The incumbent’s tasks will largely fall under these national, regional and global frameworks. The contract extension will be considered based on performance and fund availability.

Grade SB5-7

Reporting Lines

The incumbent will work under the direct supervision of the FAO Representative in Madagascar, Comoros, Mauritius and Seychelles, and in full collaboration with the Deputy FAO Representative in Madagascar, Comoros, Mauritius and Seychelles, the FAO Representative Programme Assistants in Madagascar, in Comoros, in Mauritius and in Seychelles. The incumbent shall ensure effective collaboration with all Unit Heads, including Programme, Operations, MEAL (Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning), Procurement, Administration and Communication teams across the four countries, ensuring aligned communication workflows and timely delivery of communication products. In close collaboration with OCC branches and focal points, and in regular consultation with the Regional Communication Officer (FAORAF) through the Subregional Office for Southern Africa (FAO SFS) Communication, Advocacy, Partnerships, Resource Mobilization, and Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (CAPRM) Technical Coordination Unit Lead, the incumbent shall ensure that all communication and information outputs are fully aligned with FAO corporate communication policy and operational guidelines. All outputs must comply with FAO’s communication clearance processes.

Technical Focus

Strategic Communication, Knowledge Sharing and Capacity Development

Tasks and responsibilities

In close collaboration with Office of Communications (OCC) branches and appropriate Communication focal points, the incumbent will\:

Team Coordination & Supervision

• Study and apply all relevant FAO communication and publishing guidelines, demonstrating a strong understanding of FAO publishing standards and producing high-quality content with minimal need for revision;
• Lead and harmonize communication activities across all covered countries and projects;
• Supervise and guide communication affiliate personnel;
• Develop and monitor workplans and schedules for communication tasks.

Strategic Communication & Advocacy

• Design and implement a communication and advocacy strategy aligned with the priorities of the four countries’ CPFs;
• Support programme and project teams with strategic communication and visibility;
• Prepare knowledge-sharing materials and presentations to promote positive behaviour change and impact;
• Ensure coordination with all other units (Programme, Operations, MEAL, Procurement and Administration Units) for aligned communication workflows.

Media & Partnerships Relations

• Build and maintain relationships and updated database of media, influencers, and partners;
• Coordinate with FAO, UNCG and other development partners’ communication teams;
• Strengthen local capacity for external and internal communication.

Operational & Administrative Support

• Ensure all communication outputs comply with FAO guidelines and clearance processes
• Guarantee consistency in messaging and branding in English and French.
• Monitor and report on communication activities and visibility achievements.
• Adapt communication strategies to different country contexts and priorities.
• Perform other related duties as required.

FAO Standards and guidelines\:

• Liaison with OCC will be maintained, either directly or through an agreed focal point/coordinator, to ensure compliance with OCC standards, aligned messaging, and appropriate review and clearance processes.
• All communication materials will follow FAO clearance processes and comply with FAO standards, including\:
FAO Strategic Framework 2022-31\: https\://www.fao.org/strategic-framework/en
FAO social media policy and guidelines\: https\://www.fao.org/2/socialmedia
Social Media Branding Guidelines\: https\://openknowledge.fao.org/handle/20.500.14283/cb5044en
FAOSTYLE https\://openknowledge.fao.org/handle/20.500.14283/cb8081en
FAO terminology http\://www.fao.org/faoterm
FAO Names of Countries https\://www.fao.org/nocs/en
Story guidelines, Story template, UN map standards, FAO logo policy and related branding guidelines (available to staff).
• Further guidance regarding FAO communications, policies and procedures can be found through the FAO intranet, OCC section.

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements

• Advanced university degree in a field related to communication, social sciences, international relations, or other fields related to FAO’s work; a doctoral degree is an asset.
• At least 7 years of relevant experience in communication related to food security and nutrition, agricultural value chains, agrifood systems, natural resources and environment.
• Working knowledge of English and French. Working knowledge of Malagasy is also essential.
• Nationality of Madagascar.

FAO Core Competencies

• Results Focus
• Teamwork
• Communication
• Building Effective Relationships
• Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement

Technical/Functional Skills

• Proven ability to produce high-quality written communication materials in English and French
• Experience working with development projects, international organizations, UN agencies, or NGOs.
• Experience in multi-country, multi-stakeholder, or decentralized settings is an asset.
• Strong research and writing skills, with the ability to communicate complex issues in a clear and accessible manner.
• Demonstrated experience in planning, designing, and implementing communication and advocacy campaigns.
• Proficiency in digital communication tools and platforms, including social media management, web content management systems, and analytics tools.
• Experience using AI-powered tools for content creation, social media optimization, and data-driven communication strategies.
• Knowledge of SEO, digital marketing trends, and multimedia production (graphics, video, audio).
• Ability to use data visualization and reporting tools to monitor and assess communication impact.
• Strong computer skills, including proficiency in standard office software and digital collaboration tools.
• Familiarity with FAO work worldwide and particularly in Madagascar, Comoros, Mauritius and Seychelles.
• Demonstrated ability to coordinate and guide a multidisciplinary team.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION