Overview

This position is an exciting opportunity to join one of the leading science communications programmes in the world. The Global Events and Conferences Manager will work with a high-performing, dynamic and creative team and contribute to CIFOR-ICRAF’s global efforts to stabilize the climate, reverse biodiversity loss, and improve food security.

We’re looking for someone with creative vision and drive, who is a communications all-rounder and experienced manager with a keen eye for detail and quality.

Reporting to the Head of Global Outreach and Engagement, the Global Events and Conferences Manager has a knack for organizing impactful, memorable events around the world with flair. From the small details of events to big-picture overviews, like preparing the global communications strategy and budget forecasting each year for conferences and events, the Global Events and Conferences Manager leads the coordination of internal and external communication, events budget management and overall events logistical support; oversees relevant staff and consultants; and leads the publication and dissemination of knowledge products around events.

Working closely with the Head of Global Outreach and Engagement, the Global Events and Conferences Manager will ensure the effective evaluation of CIFOR-ICRAF’s global events in alignment with the overall outreach and communications strategy. They will work with the Communications, Outreach and Engagement and CIFOR-ICRAF’s scientific staff to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of CIFOR-ICRAF’s overall investment in events, workshops, and conferences through effective planning and evaluation.

Duties and responsibilities

• Source and implement a digital events platform to be used for all CIFOR-ICRAF digital and hybrid events.
• Develop and execute full communications plans for each event, including briefs, editorial agenda, run-of-show, speaking notes and leading on the communications strategy.
• Liaise with CIFOR-ICRAF scientists to prepare and to assist in drafting concept notes related to CIFOR-ICRAF campaigns, events, online initiatives including events of global significance, Global Landscapes Forum events and regional and thematic events.
• Provide full events planning, implementation, reports, and logistical service to CIFOR-ICRAF’s themes and regions and prepare event reports and lessons learnt for knowledge management.
• Manage consultants and staff involved in CIFOR-ICRAF’s global events and ensure effective coordination with scientists and the Communications, Outreach and Engagement unit.
• Serve as a focal point, develop, and manage relationships with stakeholders and partners and organizations related to conferences.
• Manage the preparation and management of all conference contracts.
• Coordinate the CIFOR-ICRAF’s Events Management System, events webpage and events calendar and conduct research to build a more comprehensive event portfolio for the institution to maximize its impact and influence in the agriculture and forestry sectors, and beyond.
• Work closely with fellow CIFOR-ICRAF COE team members on outreach, mainstream and social media campaigns related to event planning, and support scientists and others to promote their research at events, workshops, and conferences.
• Report on event outcomes and metrics for donors, partners, and internal use
• Coordinate the development of materials for CIFOR-ICRAF staff and partners attending events including exhibitions, publications, and other promotional items.

Education, knowledge and experience

• A degree in communications or a related discipline
• At least 5 years’ experience in global conferences, events planning, logistics and budget management
• Experience in coordinating large conferences involving senior government ministers and in managing attendances of more than 1,000 participants.
• A proven ability to develop communications strategic direction.
• Ability to travel and flexibility.
• Fluency in English and working knowledge of other international languages is an advantage.