Communications Specialist (Africa) - Locally Recruited

About the role

CIMMYT, a CGIAR Research Center focused on maize, wheat, sorghum, millets and other cereals, is looking for a Communications Specialist (Africa) to strengthen the visibility of its research programs and projects. The role covers strategic communications, content development, digital campaigns and media engagement, working closely with Program Directors, the Africa Communications Manager and key stakeholders. The position is based in Nairobi and is a Locally Recruited Staff (LRS) post.

Key responsibilities

• Develop, edit and disseminate communication materials across websites, blogs, feature stories and social media, keeping messaging consistent with organizational priorities
• Collaborate with designers and multimedia specialists and highlight scientific achievements, policy interventions and success stories
• Support flagship campaigns and national and state-level events, prepare briefing notes, presentations and talking points, and manage the Country Office events calendar
• Build relationships with regional media, journalists and influencers, document field activities, write press materials and media advisories, and support spokesperson briefings
• Support executive communications with country-specific talking points, presentations and briefs, and help produce newsletters and annual reports
• Manage workflows and planning for content, events and partner communications within budget, and oversee a roster of freelance editors, translators, designers and web programmers
• Ensure adherence to CIMMYT brand guidelines and standardized templates, and identify and mitigate risks in the area of responsibility

Required profile

• Master's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, International Development or a related field (a Bachelor's with significant additional relevant experience may be considered)
• At least 4 years of experience in strategic communications, preferably in international development, research-for-development or donor-funded programmes
• Experience working with international organizations, particularly in agricultural development

Required skills

• Excellent written and verbal English; French and/or Arabic is an added advantage
• Ability to adapt content for print, digital and multimedia channels
• Proficiency in social media platforms and digital communication tools
• Strong event planning and coordination skills
• Desirable: experience producing and editing video content

What we offer

• Two-year appointment with a six-month probationary period, with possible extension
• Non-contributory pension scheme and comprehensive medical insurance
• Paid annual and statutory leave
• Learning and development opportunities