The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) is a non-profit, non-political organization that conducts agricultural research for development in Asia and sub-Saharan Africa with a wide array of partners throughout the world. Covering 6.5 million square kilometers of land in 55 countries, the semi-arid tropics is home to over 2 billion people, with 650 million of these being the poorest of the poor. ICRISAT and its partners help empower those living in the semi-arid tropics, especially smallholder farmers, to overcome poverty, hunger, malnutrition and a degraded environment through more efficient and profitable agriculture. ICRISAT, established in 1972, and is a member of the CGIAR Consortium. For more details, visit www.icrisat.org.
ICRISAT is seeking applications for the position of Communication Assistant to work in the HOPE II project.
The HOPE II project is implemented by ICRISAT with funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) for a period of five years in three countries in eastern Africa (Tanzania, Uganda and Ethiopia) and three countries in western Africa (Nigeria, Mali and Burkina Faso). This second phase of the project builds on the achievements in the first phase and will have a strong component of collaboration with National Research Systems for scaling out successful technologies.
The position will be based at ICRISAT, Bamako, Mali with responsibilities at the participating centers and all target countries.
Responsibilities:
Develop and implement innovative communication and information strategy and plan for the HOPE project in liaison with the ICRISAT communication unit
Maintain the HOPE project website in liaison
Ensure the design, coordination, preparation and dissemination of the HOPE project publications (press articles, blog, press release, etc.)
Contribute to the HOPE project newsletter and other means of communication/information during events organized by the HOPE project and/or its partners;
Support partners of the HOPE project in the design, development and dissemination of publications related to activities carried out under the HOPE project
Provide support to the ICRISAT communications unit to maintain a permanent relationship with the media (written and oral media, radio, TV, etc.) in Mali and West Africa to promote the HOPE project.
Essential criteria:
At least a Bachelor’s degree or a Master’s degree in communication and/or journalism
Minimum of 3 years of experience in a similar position, including organizing and supervising a communication program for an institution or research/development projects or programs, with skills in the design, writing and production of different information media (printed and audiovisual) and in the organization of events
Strong writing, analytical and information synthesis skills and ability to articulate ideas clearly and concisely
Good knowledge of methods and practices in the scaling out of agricultural technologies to farmers;
Good knowledge and experience working with the media in Africa
Good understanding of key issues related to agriculture, food and nutrition security, rural development and climate change and demonstrable skills in translating these for a variety of audiences
Written and spoken fluency in English and French
Knowledge and previous experience of working in regional or international development organizations would be an asset.
Very good knowledge of computer software and other audio-visual production, graphic design and online content management and publishing tools.
Good knowledge of social networks
Ability to work under pressure, take initiative, and be dynamic and proactive
Ability to work in a multicultural and multidisciplinary environment.
The initial contract will be for 2 years with a possibility of renewal based on satisfactory performance, need for the position and availability of funds. The position is in the category of NRS (Nationally Recruited Staff Band A), with a competitive salary and other annual allowances.
How to apply:
Applicants should apply before 19th, February, 2017 to Mrs. Traoré Kadiatou Yéna at k.yena@icrisatml.org.
Applicants need to include cover letter and motivation to do the work, current curriculum vitae, and the names and contact information of three references that are knowledgeable about their professional qualifications and work experience. All applications will be acknowledged; however only short listed candidates will be contacted.
ICRISAT is an equal opportunity employer and is especially interested in increasing the participation of women on its staff. ICRISAT has a flexible approach to international appointments and welcomes dual-career couples.