The Communications Specialist will be responsible for overseeing and executing the communications strategy for CGIAR FOCUS Climate Security, ensuring that the initiative’s research and policy insights are effectively communicated to global audiences. The role involves strategic leadership, development, and management of communications content across various channels. This position will also include managing and mentoring a Communications Assistant and working closely with research and leadership teams to maximize outreach and impact.

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and lead the implementation of a comprehensive communications strategy for CGIAR FOCUS Climate Security.
• Guide and manage the Communications Assistant, delegating tasks and ensuring high-quality outputs.
• Oversee strategic development of content including blogs, infographics, videos, social media posts, and other materials.

Content Development and Management

• Lead the creation of targeted communication outputs to support key research areas: Evidence for Climate Security, Programming for Climate Security, Policy for Climate Security, and Finance for Climate Security.
• Ensure that all communication products comply with CGIAR branding guidelines and funder acknowledgment requirements.
• Work closely with researchers to translate complex climate security research into accessible, engaging communication materials.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Serve as the primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, managing relationships with media outlets, partners, and donors.
• Support CGIAR FOCUS Climate Security’s participation in global events and initiatives, ensuring effective communication presence.
• Engage actively with the CGIAR global communications team to align initiatives and ensure coordinated messaging.

Team Management

• Lead, mentor, and support the Communications Assistant, ensuring they are fully integrated into communication workflows and able to deliver on assigned tasks.
• Delegate tasks effectively, monitor performance, and provide guidance as needed to ensure high standards.

Media and External Relations

• Maintain relationships with key media outlets to promote CGIAR’s climate security research.
• Monitor and engage with global media to capitalize on opportunities for outreach and awareness-building.
• Draft and disseminate press releases, editorials, and media pieces to further publicize climate security research and its implications.

Monitoring and Evaluation

• Monitor the impact and effectiveness of communication activities, regularly reporting on performance metrics.
• Adjust communication strategies as necessary to ensure maximum visibility and impact.

Internal communications and other tasks

• Work with other communicators and Communications & Outreach (C&O) working group lead to ensure the flow of information between Research Initiatives, as well as with the C&O Global Group
• Engage with C&O working groups as appropriate to ensure coordinated engagement (e.g., knowledge management, event participation, stakeholder engagement)
• Attend events to ensure communications support
• Actively participate and engage in the global CGIAR C&O team.

Required qualifications and experience.

• Master’s degree in international communications, Journalism, or other relevant fields.
• At least 5 years of experience in leading internal and external communications, preferably in international settings and/or on climate or sustainability issues.
• Experience in managing staff or consultants in a communications setting.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with experience mentoring and guiding communications staff.
• Excellent writing and content development skills, with the ability to convey complex scientific ideas clearly and engagingly.
• High proficiency in developing multimedia content including infographics, audio editing, video editing, reports and media flyers.
• Proficiency in using social media platforms, website content management, and media monitoring tools.
• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and delegate tasks effectively.
• Ability to work both independently and in a team-oriented, collaborative, and decentralized environment, including across teams at several levels.
• Solid knowledge of Microsoft Office with advanced PowerPoint and presentation skills.
• Excellent oral communication skills in English.