Communications Manager at World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF)

The position will be both strategic and tactical; planning and management of the communications function within AWARD is envisioned as a central responsibility, but the incumbent will also be heavily engaged in day-to-day communications activities including a central role in generating and delivering compelling and useful information to key AWARD stakeholders.

Responsibilities for the Communications Manager Job

• Leadership and Management
• Lead the development, implementation and periodic evaluation of the AWARD Communications Strategy;
• Develop and manage the AWARD Communications budget;
• Lead the effort to maintain a strong, consistent external brand for the programme across all communications channels;
• Refine and ensure adherence to AWARD brand standards, including the organisation’s Style Guide and corporate identity;
• Oversee and manage AWARD’s online presence on the program’s website and social media platforms;
• Manage vendors used for writing, editing and designing selected communications products, both print and multimedia;
• Create and facilitate the use of effective internal communications tools, and periodically provide management reports on communications activities and effectiveness;
• Provide leadership to AWARD generally, and to Communications staff in particular, overseeing and ensuring the development of work plans that are aligned with the overall AWARD workplans;
• Conduct periodic staff evaluations and guide enhancement of skills including by identifying appropriate professional development opportunities;
• Publications and writing/editing
• Responsible for coordinating the communications outputs, creating and updating AWARD literature by;
• Identifying, developing and executing communications strategy for key stakeholders and general public;
• Working with communications team members and other AWARD staff on the writing, editing and production of various AWARD imprimatur print publications and multi-media communications;
• Writing and editing various internal and external progress and annual reports and project documents for senior management and donors;
• Developing content for multiple needs, including press statements and articles, fact sheets, brochures, and the AWARD website;
• Working with AWARD staff in the development of conference papers, posters and presentations (including PowerPoint and video);
• Providing editorial support in the development of professional (peer-reviewed) articles;
• Developing ideas to tell the AWARD story in fresh and compelling new ways.
• Resource mobilization and external relations:
• Support fundraising efforts by editing and formatting proposals, and assisting in preparation of donor presentations (especially those made by the Director);
• Provide strategic support in fundraising, working with other team members to build partnerships with key partners and donors;
• Support existing relationships, and help develop new ones with strategic partners and institutions

Qualifications for the Communications Manager Job

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications or related field; (Master’s degree preferred)
• 7 years’ experience in a similar position
• 2 years working in Francophone Africa or with Francophone Africa partners is highly desirable
• Demonstrated abilities in managing staff and budgets; Proven skills in writing, editing and producing publications; Excellent verbal and written communications skills; Cultural competency relative to Francophone Africa and fluency in written and spoken French; Strong interpersonal skills, ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with colleagues, stakeholders and partners; Ability to work independently and to take initiative, as well as to be an effective team member;
• Ability to manage a complex workload and work to tight deadlines;
• Standard office ICT skills, including social media;
• Experience in developing and implementing media and advocacy campaigns.