Communications and Advocacy Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the UN 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. With 195 Members, including 194 countries and the European Union, FAO operates in over 130 countries worldwide. The organization contributes to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda through its Strategic Framework, supporting the transformation to more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems. FAO Country Offices provide policy advice and support to countries, facilitating partnerships and resources to deliver technical assistance and develop capacities while adhering to international standards of accountability.

Job Overview:
The Communications and Advocacy Specialist will play a crucial role in enhancing the visibility of FAO projects in the Philippines, particularly in Isabela Province. This position involves documenting, producing, and disseminating information and communication materials that highlight project results, good practices, and human-interest stories. The Specialist will lead the implementation of the project's communication, visibility, advocacy, and knowledge management strategy, ensuring alignment with FAO, donor, and UN branding guidelines. The role requires strategic communication and advocacy advice to various stakeholders, including government counterparts and implementing partners, to promote project objectives and best practices. The Specialist will also develop and implement advocacy campaigns to raise awareness and promote disaster preparedness approaches among target stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Communications and Advocacy Specialist include leading the implementation of the communication strategy, providing strategic communication advice, developing various communication materials such as news articles and social media content, and implementing advocacy campaigns. The Specialist will document project milestones and activities through high-quality photography and videography, ensuring compliance with FAO privacy and branding protocols. Coordination with government agencies and stakeholders is essential to strengthen communication and public engagement. The Specialist will monitor media coverage and analyze the effectiveness of communication activities, conduct field missions to collect materials, maintain an organized repository of communication products, and prepare communication inputs for donor and project reports. Additionally, the Specialist will ensure that all communication materials comply with FAO standards and undergo appropriate review processes.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in communications, journalism, development studies, or related fields. A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in communication, documentation, or media work is required, preferably within development, humanitarian, or UN projects. Candidates must also be nationals of the Philippines and have a working knowledge of English at level C. FAO core competencies such as results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing are essential. Technical skills in preparing press releases, web content management, and familiarity with FAO communication standards are desirable.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree in communications, journalism, development studies, or related fields. Candidates must have their educational qualifications recognized by an institution accredited in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of relevant experience in communication, documentation, or media work, ideally within the context of development, humanitarian, or UN projects. Experience in preparing various communication materials and managing media relations is essential.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory, and proficiency in Filipino is also required. Familiarity with relevant local dialects is considered an advantage, and excellent written and oral communication skills in both English and Tagalog are necessary.

Additional Notes:
The FAO does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, and 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 travel to project sites as required, and the appointment will be subject to security clearances.