Head of Communications

Head of Communications

Bioversity International is a research-for-development organization working with partners worldwide to use and conserve agricultural and tree biodiversity for improved livelihoods, nutrition, sustainability and productive and resilient ecosystems. Bioversity International is a member of the CGIAR Consortium, a global research partnership for a food secure future. Bioversity International has more than 300 staff and scientists’ worldwide working with almost 700 partners.

For further information on Bioversity International, consult the Web page at

http://www.bioversityinternational.org

Background

Bioversity is now looking for a dynamic, mission-focused Head of Communications who will support Bioversity International in achieving its vision and mission through providing top notch communications expertise to develop and deploy effective communications strategies. This is an exciting time to join Bioversity International. You will work in a fast-moving international setting on issues that are increasingly in the spotlight and you will have the opportunity to make a difference to our ability to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges. The position is based at Bioversity International’s Headquarters in Maccarese, near Rome, Italy.

Job purpose

The Head of Communications will play a pivotal role in supporting Bioversity International to significantly grow and enhance its international profile through developing and implementing strategic and tactical communications plans that will amplify the impact of Bioversity International’s research, and help position us at the forefront of researching and enhancing agricultural biodiversity for the benefit of poor smallholder farmer communities in developing countries and for the health of the planet.

Specific responsibilities

Reporting to the Director of Strategic Partnerships and External Engagement, the Head of Communications will have the following key responsibilities:

• Establish effective systems and cross-organizational processes to support research programmes and scientists in promoting, and contribute to the impact of Bioversity’s work through a broad range of communication tools and integrated programs;
• Develop communications strategies including a highly targeted media program, digital and social media channels and niche communications programs for a range of stakeholders, and implement annual action plans to target key audiences;
• Manage the process to develop the Bioversity brand, image and position, and ensure constant and seamless brand and message management;
• Work closely with research programmes and scientists to integrate communication and outreach into the research impact pathway;
• Manage Bioversity’s presence and visibility at major external events;
• Advise senior management on managing risk associated with external communications and in reputation management;
• Oversee the activities related to the production of high quality institutional communications materials, including digital content, annual reports and reviews, newsletters and e-newsletters, etc;
• Manage and support a small team of staff, interns, volunteers, external consultants and agencies;
• Prepare and manage annual budgets.

• Contribute to enhanced internal communications by advising management on innovative mechanisms, and by developing appropriate messaging and processes to maximize the effectiveness of communication;

Essential qualifications experience and competencies

• Masters’ university degree or equivalent professional qualifications in communications or a related field.
• At least 8 years’ successful track record as a communications professional at senior level, with experience in developing and implementing communications strategies that support the achievement of the organization mission, with a portion of that experience in an international environment;
• Considerable experience in managing new media and digital channels, including website development and social media.
• Experience with market research, measurement and evaluation techniques.
• Excellent understanding of the global agriculture development and research issues.
• Superb written and verbal communications skills in English.
• Strong organizational skills, keen attention to detail and the ability to effectively work under tight deadlines and with a high degree of autonomy.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to interact with support with people at all levels, with different national, cultural and disciplinary backgrounds.
• A personable and supportive team-oriented candidate with excellent people management skills.
• Strong work ethics and integrity.
• Commitment to Bioversity International’s vision and aims.

Desirable qualifications experience and competencies

• Experience in organizational culture change and business processes improvement.
• Working knowledge of other languages such as Spanish, French, or Italian.
• Professional experience in, or academic knowledge of, agricultural research and development issues.

Terms and conditions: This is an internationally recruited position. Bioversity International offers an attractive remuneration package including a competitive salary, non-contributory retirement plan, medical insurance, housing allowance and leave provisions. All benefits are denominated and paid in US Dollars. The initial contract will be for a period of three years subject to a probationary period of one year.

Applications: Please apply online through Bioversity Job Vacancies webpage (http://www.bioversityinternational.org/jobs) by clicking the "Apply" button, completing the online application and attaching the required information. The closing date for the vacancy is 24 November 2013, but we will continue accepting applications until the position is filled (you can monitor the process status in the "Job Vacancies" section of our website). Please note that in the application you are required to provide the contact details (address, telephone number and e-mail address) of at least three referees, whom Bioversity will contact for short listed applicants.

Bioversity is an equal opportunity employer and strives for staff diversity.

Women and candidates from developing countries are encouraged to apply.