Reports to: Deputy Director General - Research
Location: Cairo, Egypt
Main purpose of position
The Head of Communications plays a strategic role in shaping and amplifying ICARDA\u2019s brand, visibility and scientific impact to influence the global arena of agricultural research for development. This role is instrumental in translating complex scientific research into compelling narratives that engage donors, policymakers, research partners and the wider audience. Working closely with researchers, monitoring and evaluation teams, resource mobilization specialists and project development teams, the successful candidate will craft actionable engagement strategies that position ICARDA at the forefront of agriculture research-for-development (AR4D) in the global drylands. The ideal candidate is both a strategic thinker and hands-on executor, capable of implementing communications activities rapidly and with high impact while fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and communication within ICARDA\u2019s research teams and across the organization.
About ICARDA
The International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) is an international autonomous, non-profit, research organization supported by the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR).
ICARDA\u2019s mission is to reduce poverty, enhance food, water and nutritional security, as well as environmental health in the face of global challenges including climate change. We do this through innovative science, strategic partnerships, linking research to development and capacity development that take into account gender equality and the role of youth in transforming the dry areas. ICARDA works in partnership with governments, universities, civil society, national agricultural research organization, other CGIAR research Centers, and the private sector. With its temporary Headquarters in Beirut, Lebanon, ICARDA operates in regional and country offices across Africa, Asia and the Middle East. For more information: www.icarda.org
Main responsibilities
The Head of Communications will have the following key responsibilities:
Strategic Communications & Research Impact
\u2022Develop and implement ICARDA's multi-channel communications strategy that translates ICARDA\u2019s scientific research portfolio into compelling stories by developing and implementing annual action plans to target key audiences, including a highly targeted media program, digital and social media channels, and niche communications programs for a range of stakeholders including, but not limited to donors, researchers, and policymakers.
\u2022Ensure scientific outputs are effectively disseminated to funders, decision makers, and research partners by delivering timely, high-quality, and high-impact communication material, such as press releases, thought-pieces, editorials, corporate reports, newsletters, and other flagship publications and public awareness material, both in digital and print format.
\u2022Position ICARDA as a thought leader in dryland agriculture and climate-resilient food systems.
\u2022Ensure that the ICARDA website is up-to-date, operational, and works to enhance the visibility and understanding of ICARDA\u2019s mission and impact internationally, with particular attention to funders, policymakers, and strategic partners.
Content Development & Digital Engagement
\u2022Oversee the production of high-quality research-driven content, including scientific articles, policy briefs, donor reports, and corporate publications.
\u2022Ensure that ICARDA\u2019s profile is updated on the CGIAR website and social media channels keeping it dynamic, engaging, and aligned with the latest research updates
\u2022Develop and maintain effective relationships with relevant media outlets to maximize opportunities for effective coverage of ICARDA\u2019s work. Profile and pitch to journalists and producers.
\u2022Spearhead the development of multimedia content, including videos, infographics, and podcasts, to broaden the reach of ICARDA\u2019s scientific insights.
Donor Relations & Research Uptake
\u2022Work closely with the Head of Partnerships and Resource Mobilization to produce compelling, relevant and thought-provoking communications\u2019 products that support ICARDA\u2019s overall vision and mission, and supports increased funding and partnerships
\u2022Provide support to the Deputy Director General \u2013 Research, and research teams, to ensure that all scientific and technical documents uploaded in the ICARDA MEL repository meet international standards of English grammar and style in addition to being in-line with ICARDA\u2019s Style Guidelines. This is expected to be undertaken both by the incumbent themselves as well as by outsourcing.
\u2022Provide support and strategic advice to research programs and teams and streamline effective dissemination of research results and knowledge products into their projects and initiatives from an early stage of project development.
Organizational & Capacity Building
\u2022 Build organizational capacity for effective communication through coaching and training of scientists and members of the Senior Management Team and other staff as necessary.
\u2022Lead ICARDA\u2019s crisis communications and reputation management efforts.
\u2022Plan and manage ICARDA\u2019s presence and visibility at major national, regional and global
events.
\u2022Manage risks associated with external communications and lead on reputation management.
\u2022Prepare and manage annual budgets for the Communications Unit.
\u2022Lead and motivate a small team of staff, consultants and interns.
\u2022Effectively manage the outsourcing of communication activities as necessary.
Requirements
Education, qualifications and experience
Essential qualifications, skills and experience
\u2022Master's degree or Advanced degree in communication, marketing, journalism, international relations, or related field.
\u2022At least 8-10 years of progressively responsible experience in communication and/or science journalism, and knowledge translation into marketing strategies, including international experience, with a proven track record of creating and implementing successful strategic communications, marketing, and PR campaigns as well as producing high-quality materials.
\u2022Strong understanding of issues related to agricultural research and development and how they relate to climate change, food security and environmental degradation.
\u2022Exceptional written and verbal communication skills in English, with experience producing research-backed content for diverse audiences and solid copywriting skills.
\u2022Considerable experience in managing new media, digital channels, and websites.
\u2022Knowledge of web management platforms.
\u2022Proven ability to develop high-impact media and outreach strategies, with strong global media networks
\u2022Experience leading communications teams in international, multicultural settings.
\u2022Experience in effective management and motivation of staff.
\u2022Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to interact with people at all levels, from diverse national, cultural and academic disciplines.
Desirable experience, skills and qualifications:
\u2022Familiarity with CGIAR research frameworks and global agricultural development initiatives
\u2022Experience with Adobe InDesign.
\u2022Experience within a research or development context.
\u2022Experience in communications for fundraising in international markets, including accessing
new avenues for resource mobilization via communications\u2019 activities.
\u2022Ability to communicate in Arabic and/or French.
\u2022Experience of working with Boards and high-profile \u2018ambassadors.
\u2022Knowledge of the regions in which ICARDA operates
Essential qualities:
\u2022Strategic and analytical thinking, with the ability to translate complex scientific data into compelling narratives.
\u2022Ability to work effectively under tight deadlines and with a high degree of autonomy.
\u2022Ability to think strategically combined with the ability and willingness to do hands-on work in a context of limited human and financial resources.
\u2022A personable and supportive team-oriented candidate.
\u2022An upbeat and enthusiastic attitude.
\u2022Strong organizational skills and keen attention to detail.
\u2022Strong work ethics and integrity.
\u2022Commitment to ICARDA\u2019s mission, particularly in advancing food security and climate adaptation in dryland regions.
Benefits
Terms of appointment, salary and benefits
This is an internationally recruited position for which ICARDA offers an attractive compensation package including a competitive salary, housing allowance, non-contributory retirement plan, medical insurance and leave provisions. All benefits are denominated and paid in US Dollars. The successful candidate will be offered an initial renewable contract of 3 years. Confirmation of the contract is subject to a probationary period of one year.
Screening of candidates will commence by 15th February and will continue until a suitable candidate is identified.
Preference will be given to internal and CGIAR candidates who meet the requirements outlined in terms of reference.
Applications will be acknowledged, but only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.