Regional Communications Officer, Africa Region - Center for International Forestry Research - Yaoundé, Cameroon

VACANT POST - BASIC INFORMATIONCenter for International Forestry Research Application Deadline (optional): 

The Center for International Forestry Research advances human wellbeing, environmental conservation and equity by conducting research to inform policies and practices that affect forests in developing countries. We are one of 15 centres within the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR). Our headquarters are in Bogor, Indonesia, and we have offices in Asia, Africa and South America.

CIFOR is looking for a Regional Communications Officer for the Africa Region.

Reporting to the Media Relations and Outreach Manager, the Regional Communications Officer leads the development, implementation, evaluation and continual improvement of CIFOR’s regional communication strategy for Africa.

The Regional Communications Officer works with scientists to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of CIFOR’s overall investment in communication through effective planning and evaluation. The post holder will play a leading role in the development of a regional communications strategy with the support of CIFOR’s technical experts.

Duties and responsibilities

Develop the African elements of CIFOR’s multilingual website.Develop appropriate communications materials in multiple formats on our work in Africa, such as:
- Write stories, news releases, e-newsletters and other content for the web, printed material and the media
- Prepare multimedia packages for the web and media.  Liaise with media in the region to disseminate information on our research.Build communication plans and budgets into regional research proposals and projects to enhance impact.Support the integration of communication for development activities and knowledge management into projects and programmes.Build the communication capacities of scientists and others in the region by arranging communication training and providing mentoring.Evaluate the effectiveness of communication activities and recommend better approaches.

Requirements

Education, experience, technical skills and competencies

Degree in communication or related disciplineAt least 5 years of professional work experience in media relationsExperience in planning, implementing and evaluating comprehensive communication programsExperience in working for a research facility or within the development sector is an advantageKnowledge of African communication networkVerbal and written fluency in English and French

Personal attributes and competencies

Initiative and ability to work independently as well as a part of a teamStrong client service approachAbility to nurture new ways of doing thingsExcellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to effectively and positively interact with people in a multicultural and multidisciplinary environmentAbility in personal organisation, planning, priority setting and managing multiple tasksProven ability to work well under pressure

Terms and conditions

The remuneration for this post will reflect a compensation and benefits package that is competitive in the region.The initial contract will be for 1 year with the possibility of extension contingent upon performance, continued relevance of this position and available resources.The position will be based in Yaoundé, Cameroon.

Application process

The application deadline is 30 September 2011.We will acknowledge all applications, but we will contact only short-listed candidates. Please send your letter of interest and CV, including contact information for three referees to: 

Human Resources Department, CIFOR
cifor-hr-jobs@cgiar.org
Please indicate the position in the email subject line.

CIFOR is an equal opportunity employer.
Staff diversity contributes to excellence.

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