Communications Specialist FAO

Tasks and responsibilities:
• Implement Communication Plans for the Representation, in line with the agreed Country Programming Framework (CPF) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) for the country.
• Coordinate preparation and implementation of communication campaigns and activities in relation with the Forest Management and Sustainable Charcoal Value Chain project communication strategy
• Develop and maintain close contacts with government officials, multilateral and bilateral donors, civil society and private sector for implementation of the communications strategy, organization of roundtable discussions, press conferences, briefing sessions, interviews, and launches.
• Collaborate in identification, preparation, and dissemination of written or visual content and materials in relation to project activities, including success stories, documents, brochures, news articles, press releases, talking points, briefing notes, key messages, newsletters, opinion pieces and other communication outputs, ensuring consistency, accuracy and meeting the needs of target audiences.
• Draft content in connection with the project and the FAO Representation in Uganda, ensuring that text is accessible, dignified, informative and interesting and paying attention to accuracy, tone and house style and in line with FAO style, corporate branding, European Union and other relevant guidelines.
• Create and promote campaigns to local media that position FAO Representation in Uganda and influence the development agenda based on current programmes and new initiatives.
• Take part in planning and coordination of media outreach for upcoming events of the project and the FAO Representation in Uganda.
• Contribute to monitoring and evaluation of communication efforts through regular reports, update and maintenance of relevant databases (photo, video, news archives, media, etc.).
• Support strengthening of FAO media relations and visibility by maintaining effective working relationships with journalists, including national and international media.
• Promote a corporate image of FAO as an open / accessible, multidisciplinary institution with rapid response and action. This includes supporting technical staff and the FAO Representative in the preparation of presentations, interviews, programmes and FAO documents especially as they relate to the FAO Uganda forestry projects.
• Contribute to content development for website and social media for FAO Representation in Uganda, ensuring regular inclusion of project updates
• Perform any other duties as assigned
• Liaise with the Office of Communication (OCC) will be maintained, either directly or through an agreed focal point/coordinator, to ensure compliance with OCC standards, appropriate review and clearance processes.

Minimum Requirements
• University Degree in communications, journalism, media relations, or other related degrees.
• 5 years of relevant experience at the national or international level in communications, advocacy, campaigning or public relations;
• At least 3 years of professional experience in the Communication field, particularly in developing communication and visibility strategy and plan, conducting stakeholders mapping and analysis, developing communication contents and messages;
• Working knowledge of English;
• A National of Uganda.

FAO Core Competencies
• Results Focus
• Teamwork
• Communication
• Building Effective Relationships
• Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement

Technical/Functional Skills
• Ability to elaborate and implement communications and publications strategies.
• Excellent communication skills (oral and written).
• Proven networking skills, and ability to generate interest in FAO’s mandate.
• Strong multi-tasking skills and ability to work under tight deadlines.
• Ability to build strong relationships with partners, government institutions, NGOs, and local communities, and conduct fieldwork.
• Experience managing website, newsletter, and working with different social media platforms including twitter, Facebook, among others.
• Demonstrated capacity to anticipate workload, to make judgement and take initiative to carry out strategic activities.
• Understand gender and community engagement approaches.
• Working knowledge of MS office and relevant IT tools and software such as Adobe cloud suite.
• Knowledge of Adobe Photoshop, Microsoft Word, Excel and internet research skills are desirable.
• Previous experience working on international donor projects is highly preferred.
• Training in media relations, photography or creative writing would be an asset.
• Experience in public speaking and/or event management would also be an asset.