Communications Specialist

Job summary

FAO is hiring a Communications Specialist in Lilongwe to serve as communications focal point for the country office, support project visibility, produce content and manage digital communication workflows.

Responsibilities

• Tasks and responsibilities
• In close collaboration with Office of Communications (OCC) branches and appropriate Communication focal points, the incumbent will:
• • Study and apply all relevant FAO communication and publishing guidelines, demonstrating a strong understanding of FAO publishing standards and producing high-quality content with minimal need for revision.
• • Design and implement communication and advocacy strategies tailored to the country context of Malawi, the project context of EbAM, as appropriate, and aligned with CPF priorities and FAO’s Strategic Framework.
• • Support the EbAM and other project teams with strategic communication and visibility actions.
• • Produce knowledge-sharing materials, presentations, and campaigns to promote positive behaviour change and demonstrate impact.
• • Develop Terms of Reference (TORs) and oversee and monitor service providers engaged to deliver communication outputs for EbAM and other projects under the FAO Malawi country office.
• • Develop high-quality content (articles, success stories, multimedia products) that reflects EbAM and other project objectives and results, FAO’s mandate and ensures consistent messaging and branding.
• • Build and maintain relationships with media outlets, influencers, and strategic partners.
• • Manage digital platforms and social media channels to enhance EbAM and other project visibility, FAO’s visibility and audience engagement.
• • Strengthen local capacity for internal and external communication through training, coaching, and mentoring.
• • Coordinate communication workflows with Programme, Operations, Monitoring and Evaluation, Procurement, and Administration units.
• • Liaise with FAO corporate communication structures, the UN Communication Group, and partners’ communication teams.
• • Ensure that all communication outputs comply with FAO guidelines, branding standards, and clearance procedures.
• • Monitor, document, and report on communication activities, visibility achievements, and outreach impact.
• • Perform other related duties as required
• FAO Standards and guidelines:
• • Liaison with OCC will be maintained, either directly or through an agreed focal point/coordinator, to ensure compliance with OCC standards, aligned messaging, and appropriate review and clearance processes.
• • All communication materials will follow FAO clearance processes and comply with FAO standards, including:
• FAO Strategic Framework 2022-31: https://www.fao.org/strategic-framework/en
• FAO social media policy and guidelines: https://www.fao.org/2/socialmedia
• Social Media Branding Guidelines: https://openknowledge.fao.org/handle/20.500.14283/cb5044en
• FAOSTYLE https://openknowledge.fao.org/handle/20.500.14283/cb8081en
• FAO terminology http://www.fao.org/faoterm
• FAO Names of Countries https://www.fao.org/nocs/en
• Story guidelines, Story template, UN map standards, FAO logo policy and related branding guidelines (available to staff).
• • Further guidance regarding FAO communications, policies and procedures can be found through the FAO intranet, OCC section.

Requirements

• Advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in communication, social sciences, economics, international relations, international development or any other discipline relevant to the work of the organization. Consultants with a bachelor's degree need two additional years of relevant professional experience.
• • 5 years of relevant work experience in communication and media, preferably in areas related to climate change, food security, agriculture, natural resources, economics, or sustainable development.
• • Working knowledge (level C) of English.
• FAO Core Competencies
• • Results Focus
• • Teamwork
• • Communication
• • Building Effective Relationships
• • Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement
• Technical/Functional Skills
• • At least 3 years of relevant experience working in sub-Saharan Africa
• experience in Malawi is an asset.
• • Experience working with development projects, international organizations, UN agencies, or NGOs.
• • Experience in multi-country, multi-stakeholder, or decentralized settings is an asset.
• • Strong research and writing skills, with the ability to communicate complex issues in a clear and accessible manner.
• • Demonstrated experience in planning, designing, and implementing communication and advocacy campaigns.
• • Proficiency in digital communication tools and platforms, including social media management, web content management systems, and analytics tools.
• • Experience using AI-powered tools for content creation, social media optimization, and data-driven communication strategies.
• • Knowledge of SEO, digital marketing trends, and multimedia production (graphics, video, audio).
• • Ability to use data visualization and reporting tools to monitor and assess communication impact.
• • Strong computer skills, including proficiency in standard office software and digital collaboration tools.
• Please note that all candidates should adhere to FAO Values of Commitment to FAO, Respect for All and Integrity and Transparency
• ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
• • Extension of assignments is based on certification of performance and availability of funds
• • FAO reserves the right not to make an appointment
• • Appointments will be subject to certification that the candidate is medically fit for appointment, accreditation, any residency or visa requirements, and security clearances.
• • FAO does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview, processing)

How to apply

Apply on jobs.fao.org.

Instructions: Apply online through the official recruitment portal.

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FAO is the specialized United Nations agency leading international efforts to defeat hunger and improve food security and nutrition.

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