National Communications Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger and improve nutrition and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security. Established in 1945, FAO has grown to include 194 member countries and operates in over 130 countries worldwide. The organization aims to eradicate hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition, promote sustainable agriculture, and manage natural resources responsibly. FAO has been active in Timor-Leste since 1999, initially focusing on emergency operations and recovery from crises, and later establishing a representation office in 2012 to enhance food security in the country. The organization’s work in Timor-Leste is guided by its Country Programming Framework, which emphasizes nutrition, food security, sustainable agriculture, economic opportunities, and resilience to climate change.

Job Overview:
The National Communications Specialist will play a crucial role in enhancing the visibility of FAO's work in Timor-Leste. This position involves planning, developing, and disseminating communication and outreach products that effectively convey FAO's mission and activities to various stakeholders. The specialist will work closely with the FAO Representative and the Assistant FAO Representative, collaborating with project and country office staff to ensure that communication strategies align with FAO's corporate messages. The role requires a proactive approach to media engagement, ensuring that FAO's presence is felt across national vernacular media and beyond. The specialist will also be responsible for maintaining online communication platforms and ensuring compliance with FAO's corporate communications policies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Communications Specialist will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including: drafting and updating communication and visibility plans and budgets for specific projects; producing communication materials such as briefs, leaflets, posters, and presentations; implementing communication activities for various projects; organizing official events like project launches and conferences; ensuring the quality and availability of communication materials in English and Tetun; preparing monthly updates and quarterly briefs; identifying communication priorities and liaising with relevant parties; drafting press releases and managing media relations; maintaining online communication platforms; overseeing communication actions of FAO's implementing partners; developing beneficiary feature stories; contributing to program management meetings; providing training and advice on communication to project staff; and performing any other relevant tasks as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in communications, journalism, media relations, or a related field relevant to FAO's work. They should have at least three years of relevant experience in communication and visibility guidelines for development institutions, particularly in contexts similar to FAO. A working knowledge of English and Tetum is essential, and candidates must be Timorese nationals. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate competencies in results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in communications, journalism, media relations, or other disciplines that are relevant to the work of FAO. Candidates must have obtained their qualifications from institutions accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant experience in communication and visibility guidelines, particularly within development institutions like FAO. Candidates should have proven experience in producing communication materials, organizing media events, and managing social media platforms. The level and relevance of the candidate's experience in communication and media relations will be assessed during the selection process.

Languages:
Candidates must have a working knowledge of English and Tetum, as these languages are essential for effective communication within the role. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or processing. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates must be medically fit for appointment and meet any residency or visa requirements. The position may involve full-time engagement, and candidates are encouraged to visit the FAO employment website for additional opportunities. Furthermore, the appointment is subject to security clearances and compliance with FAO's policies and procedures.