Communication Officer (Science and Agrifood Innovation)

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is an agency that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has over 194 member countries and works in more than 130 countries worldwide. The organization aims 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. FAO's mission is to help eliminate hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition, make agriculture, forestry, and fisheries more productive and sustainable, reduce rural poverty, and enable inclusive and efficient agricultural and food systems. The organization is committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and works closely with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and the private sector, to promote sustainable agricultural practices and improve food systems globally.

Job Overview:
The Communication Officer (Science and Agrifood Innovation) plays a crucial role in enhancing the visibility and impact of FAO's scientific work related to agrifood systems. This position is integral to the Office of the Chief Scientist, where the officer will leverage science and innovation to support the FAO Strategic Framework 2022-203

• The officer is expected to develop high-quality, audience-focused communications that effectively convey complex scientific information to diverse stakeholders. This includes producing various communication materials such as articles, reports, and presentations tailored to specific audiences. The role also involves collaborating with other departments and agencies to ensure coherent messaging and alignment with FAO's overall communications strategy. The officer will be responsible for promoting knowledge sharing and best practices in science communication at international meetings and conferences, thereby reinforcing FAO's position as a trusted authority in the field.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Communication Officer will undertake a variety of key functions, including researching and analyzing technical, social, economic, environmental, and technological information to inform communication strategies. The officer will produce clear and accurate communication products, including reports and web content, and contribute to the development of improved communication processes and databases. The officer will participate in multi-disciplinary teams and lead working groups, collaborating with other departments and agencies. Specific responsibilities include supporting the strategic planning and implementation of communications and advocacy efforts, designing and delivering high-quality communication materials, ensuring coherence with corporate priorities, and managing events such as conferences and workshops. The officer will also monitor trends in science and technology, manage communications risks, and promote good science communication practices across FAO.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in communication, sustainable agriculture, environmental science, food security and nutrition, climate change, or related fields. A minimum of five years of relevant experience in strategic communications within the agriculture, food, and nutrition security sectors is required. Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in English and have intermediate knowledge of another official FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish). Competencies such as results focus, teamwork, effective communication, and knowledge sharing are essential for this role. Additionally, candidates should have technical skills related to communication services in technical areas, experience in drafting high-quality written materials, and familiarity with peer-review processes.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree, specifically a Master's degree or equivalent, in fields related to communication, sustainable agriculture, environmental science, food security and nutrition, or climate change. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of the issues at hand and for effectively communicating scientific information to various stakeholders.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of relevant experience in strategic communications, particularly in the agriculture, food, and nutrition security sectors. Experience working in international development and with prominent institutions at the international level is desirable. The ability to work with data and technical reports, ensuring accuracy in communication outputs, is essential. Familiarity with the FAO's policies and programs is considered a strong asset, as is experience in covering international and multilateral affairs.

Languages:
Proficiency in English (level C) is mandatory, along with intermediate knowledge (level B) of another official FAO language, which could be Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish. Additional proficiency in another FAO language is considered a strong asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in a multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Rome, Italy, at the FAO headquarters. It is a full-time role, and candidates may be assessed against various competencies and skills relevant to the position. The organization values diversity and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of nationality or background. The role may involve collaboration with international teams and stakeholders, and candidates should be prepared to engage in a dynamic and multicultural work environment.