Communications Specialist

Job Description - National Communication Expert (2500522)

Job Posting

Date Posted: 18/Feb/2025

Closure Date: 11/Mar/2025, 10:59:00 PM

Organizational Unit: PMUSA - FAO Programme Management Unit for Saudi Arabia

Job Type: Non-staff opportunities

Type of Requisition: NPP (National Project Personnel)

Duration: 12 months with possibility of extension

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Please note that Closure Date and Time displayed above are based on date and time settings of your personal device.

• FAO is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality, background and culture.
• Qualified female applicants, qualified nationals of non-and under-represented Members and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
• Everyone who works for FAO is required to adhere to the highest standards of integrity and professional conduct, and to uphold FAO's values.
• FAO, as a Specialized Agency of the United Nations, has a zero-tolerance policy for conduct that is incompatible with its status, objectives and mandate, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination.
• All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks.
• All applications will be treated with the strictest confidentiality.

FAO's commitment to environmental sustainability is integral to our strategic objectives and operations.

Organizational Setting

The Programme Management Unit (PMU) of the FAO-Saudi Technical Cooperation Programme (2019-2025) facilitates, coordinates and manages all technical and advisory services to be provided by FAO to the Saudi Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MoEWA). The project "UTF/SAU/051/SAU Strengthening MoEWA's Capacity to Implement the Sustainable Rural Agricultural Development Programme" is the first project that has been approved within the framework of FAO-Saudi Technical Cooperation Programme (2019-2025). The project will provide technical and advisory assistance to the MoEWA in implementing its flagship sustainable rural agricultural development programme that has recently been approved within the context of the National Transformation Programme of the Saudi Vision 2030.

Reporting Lines

The National Communication Expert will report to the Technical Advisor under the overall guidance of the National Component Manager- Natural Resources Management in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Technical Focus

The National Communication Expert will contribute to the implementation of the output 6 of the project component on "Strengthening MoEWA's capacity in sustainable management of rangelands, forests and natural resources to support rural livelihoods". He/she will be responsible for development of comprehensive communication and outreach strategies and plans for natural resources management in KSA.

Tasks and Responsibilities

In close collaboration with the Regional Communication and Knowledge Management Officer in RNE, and Regional Communications Network coordinators, the incumbent will directly seek, in liaison with the country teams, to fulfil the following tasks:

• Work closely with FAO-NRM team, NCVC and other project stakeholders to identify communication needs and develop targeted communication materials.
• Collaborate with FAO-NRM team and other project stakeholders and media outlets to develop and implement a comprehensive communication and outreach plan with clear objectives aiming at disseminating and enhancing public awareness and understanding of environmental sustainability and natural resource management and conservation.
• Craft concise, clear, and action-oriented key messages and select appropriate communication channels, including traditional media, digital platforms, community events, workshops, and partnerships, ensuring consistency in messaging and branding across all communication channels.
• Collaborate with graphic designers, videographers, and content creators to produce visually engaging materials such as infographics, videos, and animations to communicate key messages effectively.
• Identify key target audiences, including governmental institutions, local communities, schools, businesses, policymakers, and specific user groups, and establish a reliable network of environmental-related associations and NGOs for collaboration and knowledge sharing.
• Create and disseminate engaging and informative content through various channels, including websites, social media platforms, press releases, newsletters, and reports. Regularly update this content to keep it relevant and timely.
• Coordinate with the National Centre for Vegetation Cover and Combating Desertification (NCVC) to ensure alignment of communication activities and ensure content is accessible, culturally sensitive, and tailored to different audience segments.
• Facilitate communication within the project team and between project partners to ensure seamless information sharing and alignment of objectives.
• Plan and organize diverse outreach activities, including workshops, seminars, and field trips, in close collaboration with NRM team and NCVC.
• Adapt communication materials to local languages, cultural contexts, and regional preferences to ensure inclusivity and relevance.
• Set up mechanisms to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of communication and outreach efforts.
• Stay informed about emerging trends and new communication technologies to adapt strategies as needed.
• Oversee and support ongoing awareness initiatives and campaigns related to natural resources and the environment.
• Collaborate with relevant organizations and stakeholders to align communication efforts with global and local campaigns.
• Develop and implement country-level awareness initiatives tailored to the context of Saudi Arabia.
• Coordinate activities related to international or United Nations (UN) days focusing on natural resources and the environment.
• Monitor and evaluate the impact of communication activities and provide regular reports to project management.

Minimum Requirements

• University degree in Communication, Journalism or a related field.
• At least five years of relevant experience in corporate communications, public information, journalism, or international relations.
• Working Knowledge (level C) of the Arabic language and limited knowledge (level B) of English.
• National of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

FAO Core CompetenciesTechnical/Functional Skills

• Hands-on experience in developing and implementing communication and visibility strategies and plans in the field of development.
• Press release writing, project visibility, outreach and presentation delivery skills.
• Experience with producing video and photo materials.
• Good understanding of agriculture-related issues.
• Experience of working with local and international media.

Additional Information

• FAO does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.
• Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted.
• Please note that FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from an institution accredited/recognized in the World Higher Education Database.
• For additional employment opportunities visit the FAO employment website.
• Appointment will be subject to certification that the candidate is medically fit for appointment, accreditation, any residency or visa requirements, and security clearances.

FAO seeks gender, geographical and linguistic diversity in its staff and international consultants in order to best serve FAO Members in all regions.

How to Apply

• To apply, visit the recruitment website at Jobs at FAO and complete your online profile.
• Candidates are requested to attach a letter of motivation to the online profile.
• Once your profile is completed, please apply, and submit your application.
• Only applications received through the FAO recruitment portal will be considered.
• We encourage applicants to submit the application well before the deadline date.

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