Vacancy: Communications Specialist – Africa, Ethiopia, Kenya, Zimbabwe

We are seeking a dynamic, innovative, self-motivated, and service-orientated professional for the position of Communications Specialist to join our team in Africa. This position is critical to CIMMYT to enhance the impact of its work and to build and nurture relationships with donors, policy makers and the scientific community in order to combat hunger and poverty across Africa. The International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center, known by its Spanish acronym, CIMMYT, is a not-for-profit research and training organization with partners in over 100 countries. Please refer to our website for more information: www.cimmyt.org The position will be based in Kenya, Ethiopia or Zimbabwe but will interact with CIMMYT’s experimental stations and regional offices (country and world-wide) on a regular basis. Some travel to different countries in Africa will be required. The main responsibilities of this position will be: General Outreach and Communications -    Implement a comprehensive communication strategy to advance CIMMYT’s research-for-development programs in Africa. -    Help shape the public messages and branding of CIMMYT. -    Support the product development and delivery teams in enhancing the impacts. Develop and implement an online communication presence using the web and social networks. -    Manage activities, communications, special events, workshops, meetings, and conferences. -    Coordinate closely with communications staff at global HQ in Mexico. Fundraising Communications Support -    Generate compelling marketing collateral to support CIMMYT’s fundraising initiatives. -    Draft concept notes for specific projects targeting donor prospects. Media Relations -    Develop and implement a comprehensive media strategy, including field trips. -    Raise awareness through media of the value and impact of major CIMMYT projects in the region. Publications and Multi-Media Content -    Write, edit, and oversee the production of publications including, newsletters, science and policy planning reports. -    Provide necessary support in editing of project technical reports. -    Lead new approaches to create and distribute multi-media content related to CIMMYT. -    Any other duties that may be assigned by supervisor. We are seeking candidates with the following qualification, skills and attitudes -    Master’s degree in journalism, communication, or related discipline. -    Minimum of five years’ experience in science communication, marketing, public relations, media campaigns, and non-profit communication. -    Strong, proven English writing skills. -    Ability to work under pressure and to meet deadlines. -    Clear grasp of communications strategies and creativity in applying them to raise awareness of CIMMYT’s activities and achievements. -    Extensive event organization and promotion experience. -    Strong experience with website development and content management systems. -    Ability to express technical concepts in clear, simple language for diverse audiences, including the general public. -    Proficiency in use of social networking and new media tools. -    Nonprofit organization experience or demonstrated understanding of the nonprofit environment. -    Ability to work as part of a team as well as independently with minimal supervision. -    Proficiency in the local language will be an advantage. We will offer an initial contract for 3 years, which is renewable subject to continued need and funding for the position and performance of the staff member. Our internationally competitive salary and benefits include housing allowance, car, comprehensive health and life insurance, assistance for children’s education, paid vacation, annual airfare, contribution to a retirement plan, and generous assistance with relocation shipment. 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. To apply, email cover letter and CV to: Human Resources, CIMMYT Email: irsrecruitment@cgiar.org Please insert Position Reference number: 12282 in the subject of your email Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Application deadline: 2 April 2013