Advocacy & Communications Officer (CST-1)

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. Established over 60 years ago, WFP operates in numerous countries worldwide, employing a diverse workforce committed to its mission. WFP's core values include Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion, and it strives to create a healthy and inclusive work environment for its employees. WFP is also a 2020 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, which underscores its significant contributions to humanitarian efforts globally. The organization emphasizes the importance of diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging qualified candidates from various backgrounds to apply. For more information about WFP, visit their website at https://www.wfp.org and follow them on social media platforms.

Job Overview:
The Advocacy & Communications Officer will play a crucial role within the Nutrition, School Meals and Social Protection Service at WFP, focusing on the School Meals Coalition Secretariat. This position is vital for developing and executing advocacy and communications plans that promote the importance of school meals programs globally. The officer will contribute to the design of the 2026 Advocacy and Communications Plan, monitor policy trends, and identify opportunities for advocacy across various sectors, including education, nutrition, and health. The role involves engaging with key stakeholders, drafting advocacy materials, and leveraging digital platforms to enhance the visibility and impact of school meals initiatives. The officer will also support the organization of webinars and events, ensuring that the Coalition's objectives are effectively communicated and that stakeholders are engaged in meaningful ways. This position requires a proactive approach to advocacy and communications, with a strong emphasis on collaboration and strategic planning.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Advocacy & Communications Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including:

• Contributing to the design and execution of the 2026 Advocacy and Communications Plan for the School Meals Coalition Secretariat, including a strategic digital engagement plan.
• Monitoring policy trends across sectors to identify advocacy opportunities and relevant platforms for engagement.
• Supporting the organization of webinars and events, including drafting concept notes, agendas, and notes for the record.
• Refining and submitting content for the Coalition's monthly newsletter and contributing to digital channels.
• Leading the creation of multimedia content for advocacy purposes, including video scripts and infographics.
• Engaging with Coalition member governments and partners to advance the school meals agenda, drafting talking points and background materials.
• Leveraging IT and AI tools to optimize content delivery and engagement.
• Documenting advocacy and communications outcomes and contributing to progress reports for donors and Coalition members.
• Performing any other duties in support of the Advocacy and Communications Team as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Social Science, Political Science, International Relations, Journalism, Public Relations, Communications, or a relevant field. Alternatively, a first university degree with additional years of related work experience and/or training may be considered. The role requires a minimum of 3-5 years of relevant experience in policy, advocacy, communications, and partnerships within international development and humanitarian sectors. Candidates should have a strong understanding of the humanitarian and development sectors, particularly the role of school meals, and possess excellent writing, conceptual, and analytical skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiarity with Salesforce or similar systems is advantageous. Strong time management skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively are essential.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as Social Science, Political Science, International Relations, Journalism, Public Relations, or Communications. A first university degree combined with additional relevant work experience and training may also be acceptable. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of advocacy and communications within the context of humanitarian efforts and international development.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 3-5 years of relevant experience in policy, advocacy, communications, and partnerships, particularly in the international development and humanitarian sectors. This experience should include developing and executing high-level advocacy strategies and engaging with multiple stakeholders at global, regional, or national levels. A proven track record of successful event execution and collaboration with diverse partners is also essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English (level C) is mandatory, along with intermediate knowledge (level B) of a second official UN language such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, Spanish, or Portuguese. Proficiency in these languages is important for effective communication and engagement with a diverse range of stakeholders within the UN system and beyond.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Rome, Italy, and is offered as a short-term consultancy contract with a duration of 11 months. The role is full-time and involves working closely with various stakeholders, including WFP colleagues at headquarters, regional, and national levels. The compensation package is attractive, and WFP is committed to providing a supportive and inclusive work environment. The organization emphasizes the importance of reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.