Digital Communications Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is CIMMYT (International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center), which is a global leader in agricultural research and development. Established in 1966, CIMMYT focuses on improving the livelihoods of farmers and ensuring security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security through innovative research and sustainable practices. The organization operates in over 50 countries and employs a diverse team of experts dedicated to advancing agricultural science and technology. CIMMYT's mission is to provide innovative solutions to the challenges of global food security and climate change, making it a pivotal player in the agricultural sector.

Job Overview:
The Digital Communications Manager will play a crucial role in shaping and executing CIMMYT's digital communication strategies. This position is responsible for developing and implementing an operational plan that aligns with CIMMYT’s Communications and 2030 Strategy. The manager will work closely with the Donor Relations and Fundraising Services team to execute donor communications plans and coordinate digital media strategies for the Executive team and internal communications. The role requires a strong focus on content development and management, ensuring the creation of high-quality content for various digital platforms, including websites and social media. The manager will also oversee the execution of digital campaigns and media relations, ensuring that CIMMYT's messaging is consistent and impactful across all channels. Performance monitoring and optimization will be key responsibilities, as the manager will produce monthly reports analyzing KPIs and implementing improvements based on website performance and user experience. Additionally, the role involves audience engagement and brand management, ensuring that CIMMYT maintains a credible and open presence in the digital space.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Digital Communications Manager will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including:

• Strategic Planning & Execution: Develop and execute an operational plan aligned with CIMMYT’s Communications and 2030 Strategy. Execute donor communications plans in collaboration with the Donor Relations and Fundraising Services team. Coordinate and implement digital media strategies for the Executive team and internal communications.
• Content Development & Management: Oversee the creation of high-quality content for websites and social media. Write and edit a wide variety of corporate, informational, and knowledge products. Create and manage engaging content for diverse digital platforms. Maintain and execute content calendars for consistent posting and engagement.
• Digital Campaigns & Media Relations: Execute digital communication plans related to media relations. Design, launch, and manage social and digital campaigns to meet strategic objectives. Coordinate with Regional Communications Managers to develop region-specific campaigns.
• Performance Monitoring & Optimization: Produce monthly reports analyzing KPIs to measure digital platform effectiveness. Regularly update website content and optimize for search engines. Execute SEO and SEM strategies to enhance digital presence. Analyze website performance and implement improvements for user experience and conversions.
• Audience Engagement & Brand Management: Ensure consistent brand expression and impactful visuals across digital platforms. Engage with digital audiences through timely, respectful, and informative interactions. Ensure audience-centered responses that reinforce CIMMYT’s credibility and openness.
• Social Listening & Crisis Management: Use social listening tools to monitor global and regional conversations relevant to CIMMYT’s work. Leverage insights to refine messaging and optimize campaign timing. Monitor digital platforms in real time to identify emerging issues or reputational risks. Collaborate with leadership to activate crisis communication protocols when needed.
• Team & Project Coordination: Manage workflows and plans within the Communications department to ensure timely, cost-efficient deliverables. Coordinate specific projects related to digital communications. Define and implement internal campaigns for digital channels. Promote CIMMYT’s values and behaviors within the Communications team.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for the Digital Communications Manager position should possess the following qualifications:

• A minimum of 5 years of professional experience in digital communications, social media strategy, or content development.
• Proven experience managing digital campaigns and platforms in international or nonprofit organizations.
• Demonstrated success in coordinating cross-regional communications.
• Strong writing and editing skills, with the ability to create engaging content for diverse audiences.
• Proficiency in marketing" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">digital marketing tools and analytics platforms.
• Excellent project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a relevant educational background, typically a bachelor's degree in communications, marketing, public relations, or a related field. A master's degree in a relevant discipline is preferred and may enhance the candidate's qualifications for this role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in digital communications, social media strategy, or content development. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing digital campaigns and platforms, particularly within international or nonprofit organizations. Experience in coordinating cross-regional communications is also essential, as the role involves collaboration with various teams and stakeholders across different regions.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication within CIMMYT and for external engagements. Proficiency in Spanish is highly desirable, given the organization's operations in Mexico and other Spanish-speaking countries. Additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they align with CIMMYT's regional focus areas.

Additional Notes:
CIMMYT offers an attractive remuneration package that includes a year-end bonus equivalent to 40 days of salary, a vacation premium of 56%, life and medical insurance, supermarket coupons, a savings fund, and social benefits as per Mexican Labor Law (IMSS, SAR / Infonavit). The position is full-time and may involve international collaboration, reflecting CIMMYT's global operations and outreach.