Head of Communications

**Reports to**: Deputy Director General - Research
**Location**: Cairo, Egypt
Main purpose of position
About ICARDA
The International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) is an international autonomous, non-profit, research organization supported by the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR).
Main responsibilities
The Head of Communications will have the following key responsibilities:
Strategic Communications & Research Impact
- Develop and implement ICARDA's multi-channel communications strategy that translates ICARDA’s scientific research portfolio into compelling stories by developing and implementing annual action plans to target key audiences, including a highly targeted media program, digital and social media channels, and niche communications programs for a range of stakeholders including, but not limited to donors, researchers, and policymakers.
- Ensure scientific outputs are effectively disseminated to funders, decision makers, and research partners by delivering timely, high-quality, and high-impact communication material, such as press releases, thought-pieces, editorials, corporate reports, newsletters, and other flagship publications and public awareness material, both in digital and print format.
- Position ICARDA as a thought leader in dryland agriculture and climate-resilient food systems.
- Ensure that the ICARDA website is up-to-date, operational, and works to enhance the visibility and understanding of ICARDA’s mission and impact internationally, with particular attention to funders, policymakers, and strategic partners.

Content Development & Digital Engagement
- Oversee the production of high-quality research-driven content, including scientific articles, policy briefs, donor reports, and corporate publications.
- Ensure that ICARDA’s profile is updated on the CGIAR website and social media channels keeping it dynamic, engaging, and aligned with the latest research updates
- Develop and maintain effective relationships with relevant media outlets to maximize opportunities for effective coverage of ICARDA’s work. Profile and pitch to journalists and producers.
- Spearhead the development of multimedia content, including videos, infographics, and podcasts, to broaden the reach of ICARDA’s scientific insights.

Donor Relations & Research Uptake
- Work closely with the Head of Partnerships and Resource Mobilization to produce compelling, relevant and thought-provoking communications’ products that support ICARDA’s overall vision and mission, and supports increased funding and partnerships
- Provide support to the Deputy Director General - Research, and research teams, to ensure that all scientific and technical documents uploaded in the ICARDA MEL repository meet international standards of English grammar and style in addition to being in-line with ICARDA’s Style Guidelines. This is expected to be undertaken both by the incumbent themselves as well as by outsourcing.
- Provide support and strategic advice to research programs and teams and streamline effective dissemination of research results and knowledge products into their projects and initiatives from an early stage of project development.

Organizational & Capacity Building
- Build organizational capacity for effective communication through coaching and training of scientists and members of the Senior Management Team and other staff as necessary.
- Lead ICARDA’s crisis communications and reputation management efforts.
- Plan and manage ICARDA’s presence and visibility at major national, regional and global

events.
- Manage risks associated with external communications and lead on reputation management.
- Prepare and manage annual budgets for the Communications Unit.
- Lead and motivate a small team of staff, consultants and interns.
- Effectively manage the outsourcing of communication activities as necessary.

**Requirements**:
Education, qualifications and experience
Essential qualifications, skills and experience
- Master's degree or Advanced degree in communication, marketing, journalism, international relations, or related field.
- At least 8-10 years of progressively responsible experience in communication and/or science journalism, and knowledge translation into marketing strategies, including international experience, with a proven track record of creating and implementing successful strategic communications, marketing, and PR campaigns as well as producing high-quality materials.
- Strong understanding of issues related to agricultural research and development and how they relate to climate change, food security and environmental degradation.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills in English, with experience producing research-backed content for diverse audiences and solid copywriting skills.
- Considerable experience in managing new media, digital channels, and websites.
- Knowledge of web management platforms.
- Proven ability to develop high-impact media an