Communication Specialist

The Center: CIP is a not-for-profit international agricultural research-for-development organization with a focus on potato, sweetpotato, and Andean roots and tubers. Its vision is of roots and tubers improving the lives of the poor. CIP is dedicated to achieving food security, improved well-being, and gender equity for poor people in root and tuber farming and food systems of the developing world. CIP works with partners to contribute high quality science, technology, and capacity strengthening for sustainable science-based solutions. CIP is headquartered in Lima, Peru, with staff and activities in over 30 locations across Asia, Africa, and Latin America. CIP is a member of the Consortium of the Consultative Group for International Agricultural Research (CGIAR), a strategic partnership of 15 research centers dedicated to advancing science to reduce poverty and hunger, improve human health and nutrition, and enhance ecosystem resilience.

The position: The Communication Specialist will report to the Head of CPAD. The position will help support communication activities for CIP, the CGIAR Research Program on Roots, Tubers, and Bananas (CRP RTB), the CGIAR’s One Corporate System (OCS), and other cross-center initiatives.

The principle role of the Communication Specialist is to work closely with the Head of CPAD across a broad spectrum of internal and external communication activities. The post requires a dynamic individual with creative ideas for expanding the reach and visibility of CIP and its programs. The Communication Specialist will support the development and implementation of communication strategies for various activities, ranging from business development and large-scale initiatives to individual projects. He/She will support the development of products and initiatives that promote greater understanding, exchange, and uptake of knowledge that can further CIP/CRP objectives and impacts.

Duties and Accountabilities:

• Support implementation and improvement of communication strategies for CIP and the CRP RTB
• Support business development efforts through creative communication initiatives, forums, and outreach
• Help expand CIP/CRP reach and uptake through effective use of various (social) media, creation of compelling products, links with media and partners, and judicious participation in major conferences/events
• Support implementation of CIP internal communications improvement plan and activities
• Help coordinate communication for the CGIAR One Corporate System and other cross-center activities
• Help build awareness of the role and potential of RTB crops
• Promote visibility of CIP/CRP contributions, particularly among donors and decisionmakers
• Actively participate in and promote team work and growth within CPAD, and with colleagues across CIP and the CRP
• Liaise with communication staff in partner centers, programs, and organizations, capitalizing on synergies already taking root across the CGIAR system

Selection Criteria:

• MA in relevant discipline
• At least 5 years of experience in communications leadership, developing and implementing communication strategies, coordinating/managing communication partners, working with scientists/multi-disciplinary colleagues
• Demonstrated success liaising among partners or projects to enhance communication and public awareness
• Demonstrated experience translating scientific information into formats and messages for diverse audiences
• Demonstrated experience working with media, social media, and other communication forums
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Team player and team builder
• Proactive approach, with ability to find creative ways to solve problems or exploit potentials
• Video and photo expertise
• Excellent writing and oral communication skills in English, working knowledge of Spanish, with proficiency in other languages a plus
• Familiarity with international agricultural research for development, CGIAR, CRPs a plus

Conditions: The position will be based in Lima, Peru. Employment contract will be for a three-year term, with a three month probation period. The Salary will be internationally competitive, paid in US dollars, and commensurate with experience. CIP provides additional benefits including employer-paid medical, life and disability insurance and retirement benefits. Allowances toward relocation, housing, home leave travel, dependents’ education and annual leave are also provided. CIP prides itself on its collegial and supportive working environment, which allows space for personal and professional growth.

Applications: Applicants should apply by email, sending a letter of motivation, a full C.V., and the names and contact information of three referees knowledgeable about the candidate’s professional qualifications and work experience to CIP-Recruitment@cgiar.org. The reference name of the position should be clearly marked on the subject line of the email message. The deadline for applications is 8 February 2012. All applications will be acknowledged, only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

Learn more about CIP by accessing our web site at http://www.cipotato.org.

CIP is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified women and professionals from developing countries are particularly encouraged to apply