Communication Expert

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has a mission to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. The organization operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 12,000 employees. FAO's work is guided by the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which aims to transform agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable.

Job Overview:
The Communication Expert will play a pivotal role in leading communications activities focused on a systems approach to agrifood systems transformation within the Division of Agrifood Systems and Food Safety (ESF) at FAO. This position requires a strategic thinker who can develop and execute a comprehensive communications strategy aimed at increasing awareness and adoption of a systems approach among key stakeholders. The expert will be responsible for creating compelling communication materials that effectively convey the importance of agrifood systems transformation and the work of FAO in this area. The role involves engaging with policymakers, practitioners, and donors to ensure that communications efforts are tailored to meet the needs of diverse audiences. The Communication Expert will also monitor the impact of communications activities and adapt strategies as necessary to enhance effectiveness.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The successful candidate will be responsible for leading and executing the communications strategy for ESF, which includes: executing communications activities aligned with the strategy; identifying strategic opportunities for communications on agrifood systems transformation; preparing communications strategies and plans for key opportunities and events; gaining insights into target audiences to guide communications efforts; developing and monitoring the impact of communications activities; maintaining regular contact with the FAO Office of Communications and other relevant functions; drafting key messages tailored to different audiences; preparing communications outputs based on normative publications; developing high-quality written materials such as website texts, video scripts, news items, social media posts, and narratives for infographics; leading research and writing of stories of systems change; and supporting the Director of ESF with various communications activities. Additionally, the expert will ensure compliance with FAO standards and guidelines for all communication materials.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in relevant fields such as communications, media relations, social studies, or languages. A minimum of 12 years of relevant experience in communications is required, with at least 5 years in areas related to agrifood systems. Previous experience with FAO or the UN system is considered an asset. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of communications strategy and possess advanced writing skills. Familiarity with FAO and/or UN systems is also beneficial.

Educational Background:
The position requires a university degree in relevant areas such as communications, media relations, social studies, language, or other related fields. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of communication in the context of agrifood systems and for developing effective strategies and materials.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 12 years of relevant experience in communications, with at least 5 years specifically focused on agrifood systems. Experience in direct engagement at the country level in the field of agrifood systems is highly desirable. Additionally, candidates with previous experience in FAO and/or the UN systems will have an advantage in the selection process.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages, particularly those relevant to FAO's work, would be considered a valuable asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is likely to be full-time and may involve international recruitment. Candidates should be prepared to work in a dynamic environment that requires adaptability and a commitment to the mission of FAO. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with FAO's standards and policies, and further details regarding contract duration and seniority level will be provided during the recruitment process.