Communications Specialist (Multimedia)

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 its Strategic Framework 2022–2031, which focuses on four key areas: Better Production, Better Nutrition, Better Environment, and a Better Life, with a commitment to leaving no one behind. The Subregional Office for West Africa (FAO SFW) specifically supports 15 countries in advancing the transformation of agrifood systems, emphasizing the importance of effective communication and visual design in promoting its mission and enhancing advocacy efforts.

Job Overview:
The Communications Specialist (Multimedia) will play a crucial role in supporting the FAO SFW and country offices in West Africa by focusing on graphic design, editorial layout, and visual communication. This position is essential for the design, production, and dissemination of high-quality visual communication products that align with FAO's corporate identity and communication standards. The incumbent will be responsible for creating visually compelling content that effectively showcases FAO's priorities, activities, projects, and results to various audiences, including technical, institutional, and the general public. The role requires a strong understanding of the West African context, where visual and digital communication tools are vital for conveying evidence-based messages on agriculture, food security, climate resilience, and livelihoods. The Communications Specialist will work closely with the Communications Expert and the SFW Communications team to ensure that all communication products are compliant with FAO's standards and effectively engage stakeholders across the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Communications Specialist (Multimedia) will have a wide range of responsibilities, including but not limited to: collating information and developing digital assets in line with FAO's key messages and guidelines; managing thematic and regional social media channels; ensuring compliance with FAO's communication standards; designing templates for reports and institutional materials; producing high-quality communication products such as reports, brochures, and policy documents; conceptualizing creative visual approaches for corporate publications and events; developing engaging social media content; producing audiovisual content, including video shooting and editing; designing motion graphics and animated content; participating in multimedia storytelling production; ensuring the collection and enhancement of high-quality photo and video assets; translating complex technical content into clear data visualizations; supporting FAO country offices in visual communication capacities; preparing print-ready files; managing digital content updates; and providing technical advice on multimedia production tools and workflows.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree or a university degree in graphic design, visual communication, arts, audiovisual production, web design, or a related field. Relevant technical training in multimedia production and design is also acceptable. Additionally, candidates should have at least 2 years of relevant experience in multimedia production, including graphic design, audiovisual content, and digital communication. Proficiency in industry-standard design and multimedia tools, particularly Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, After Effects, and/or Premiere Pro), is essential. A strong knowledge of digital production workflows, web design, and content adaptation for online platforms is required. Experience in motion graphics, video editing, and basic animation is highly desirable. Candidates should also demonstrate strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree or a university degree in graphic design, visual communication, arts, audiovisual production, web design, or a related field. Candidates with relevant technical training in multimedia production and design will also be considered. This educational background is crucial for understanding the principles of design, visual communication, and multimedia production, which are essential for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience in multimedia production, which includes graphic design, audiovisual content creation, and digital communication. Experience in working with international organizations, particularly in a UN or humanitarian context, is highly valued. The ability to work in diverse locations and adapt to various cultural contexts is also important, as the role involves collaboration with teams across West Africa.

Languages:
Full proficiency or working knowledge of English is mandatory, while proficiency in French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, or Russian is considered an asset. A second FAO language may be required depending on the assignment. Strong language skills are essential for effective communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
This position is expected to be full-time and may involve working in a dynamic and fast-paced environment. The role may require occasional travel within the West African region to support FAO country offices and initiatives. Candidates should be prepared to engage in a collaborative work environment and contribute to the overall mission of FAO in advancing food security and sustainable agricultural practices. Compensation and benefits will be in accordance with FAO's policies and guidelines.