The International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) is the global leader in publicly-funded maize and wheat research and related farming systems. Headquartered near Mexico City, CIMMYT works with hundreds of partners throughout the developing world to sustainably increase the productivity of maize and wheat cropping systems, thus improving global food security and reducing poverty. CIMMYT is a member of the CGIAR System and leads the CGIAR Research Programs on Maize and Wheat and the Excellence in Breeding Platform. The Center receives support from national governments, foundations, development banks and other public and private agencies.

The Communications Department of the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) is seeking a candidate for an internationally recruited staff (IRS) position as Communications Officer.

Under the guidance and supervision of the Head of Communications, the Communications Officer will develop/write/edit communication products and related activities to raise awareness and promote research findings and activities at the institutional and project/program level, including the CGIAR Research Program on Maize (MAIZE), the CGIAR Research Program on Wheat (WHEAT), and the Accelerating Genetic Gains in Maize and Wheat for Improved Livelihoods (AGG) project, as well as others.

The position will be based in the organization’s global headquarters in Texcoco, Mexico, 40 km outside of Mexico City. The selected candidate will be remotely based until COVID-19 travel restrictions are lifted, and thereafter, on a flexible basis, in the organization’s global headquarters in Texcoco, 40 km outside of Mexico City.

Specific duties:

• Develop, write and edit written communication materials designed to translate technical scientific research findings in a compelling way, e.g. impact case studies, press releases, blog stories, newsletters –to diverse audiences including informed public, wheat and maize research stakeholders, and funders.
• Help develop, write, and edit technical annual reports and project proposals.
• Work with communications colleagues to increase news media coverage of CIMMYT project and program outputs, leveraging existing and new media contacts
• Maintain content for project, program web pages on cimmyt.org
• Build and maintain responsive relationships with CIMMT project and program scientists and researchers to stay updated on research outcomes and priorities for promotional products and campaigns
• Manage social media presence and communications on behalf of projects, including developing social media messages and toolkits, and identifying content and images for Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter accounts
• Develop messaging, and prepare speeches and presentations on scientific research findings, statistics, trends and updates related to One CGIAR transition
• Write and develop products to support fundraising efforts for new CGIAR initiatives and promotion of initiative outputs, results, activities as needed
• Other duties as assigned

Required academic qualifications, skills and attitudes:

• Master’s degree in journalism, communications, international development or a similar relevant field. A bachelor’s degree with extensive experience will be considered.
• Background in non-profit public relations, journalism, news writing, creative content development a plus
• A minimum of 6 years’ relevant experience, such as science communications, journalism, marketing, media relations, and/or non-profit communications.
• Proven excellent English writing, editing, proofreading skills
• Comfortable reading and summarizing technical content into compelling messages for a range of audiences
• Strong project management and teamwork skills, as well as the ability to work proactively and independently
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills, ability to work collaboratively with peers, colleagues, supervisors
• Familiarity with online platforms and tools such as WordPress, Mailchimp, SPARK
• Familiarity and interest in international rural development, agricultural research, and/or food systems-related science
• Background in non-profit public relations, journalism, news writing, creative content development a plus
• International background and/or interest in international affairs a plus; knowledge of Spanish not required but a plus
• The selected candidate must exhibit the following competencies: Critical and Creative Thinking, Negotiation and Conflict Resolution, Client Orientation, Communication and Teamwork

The position is for an initial fixed-term for three (3) years, after which further employment is subject to performance and the continued availability of funds. CIMMYT’s internationally competitive salary and benefits include housing allowance, car, comprehensive health and life insurance, assistance for children’s education, paid vacation, annual airfare, contribution to a retirement plan, and generous assistance with relocation shipment.

Candidates must apply here for IRS21123_Communications Officer. Screening and follow up of applications will begin on Thursday, July 22nd, 2021. Applications must include a CV, a letter of interest and 2 writing samples, along with contact information of three references. Incomplete applications will not be taken into consideration. For further information on the selection process, please contact Yessica Castillo, at y.castillo@cgiar.org
Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted.
This position will remain open until filled.

CIMMYT is an equal opportunity employer. It fosters a multicultural work environment that values gender equality, teamwork, and respect for diversity. Women are encouraged to apply.