National Communications Specialist (SC9)

Organizational Context

The FAO Representation in Somalia supports the national government in developing policies and strategies to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to food security, hunger reduction, agricultural development, and sustainable natural resource management. The Representation addresses national needs, including recurrent emergencies, and implements a wide range of technical support interventions. Its current portfolio covers policy support, livestock and crop production, natural resource management, nutrition, value chains, food security analysis, and water and land information management, alongside emergency and resilience-building initiatives.

Job Purpose

The incumbent will lead the development and implementation of comprehensive communication, visibility, and communication-for-development strategies for FAO Somalia. This role is crucial for enhancing the impact and results of FAO's programmes by ensuring effective storytelling, robust stakeholder engagement, proactive media outreach, and efficient knowledge sharing. The specialist will be responsible for creating compelling narratives that highlight FAO's work and achievements, fostering stronger relationships with partners, and disseminating key information to a diverse range of audiences to maximize programme effectiveness and visibility.

Responsibilities

The National Communications Specialist will prepare detailed mission briefs for photo and video shoots, supervise these missions to ensure high-quality outputs, and gather content including photos, videos, and human-interest stories to document FAO's impact in Somalia. Responsibilities include developing case studies, success stories, and visibility content in collaboration with program teams, and supporting the production of communication materials for various events and publications. The specialist will manage project visibility plans, maintain a communications workplan, and ensure new projects have aligned visibility strategies. Key tasks involve developing tailored communication products and key messaging, coordinating multimedia production logistics, drafting scripts and interview guides, and managing contractor agreements. The role includes researching, writing, and editing content for digital platforms and media outreach, coordinating the production of advocacy materials, and representing FAO in inter-agency communication forums. Additionally, the specialist will support press release drafting, maintain an archive of visual assets, contribute to social media planning, and provide communication content for donor and project reports. A significant part of the role involves leading the design and implementation of Communication for Development (ComDev) strategies and inclusive Rural Communication Services (RCS), including outreach, knowledge sharing, and adapting capacity-building materials into Somali.

Work Experience

A minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible experience in communications, media relations, public information, journalism, communication for development (ComDev), advocacy, and visibility is required. This experience should include developing communication strategies, managing multimedia content, coordinating media outreach, and supporting development or humanitarian programmes.

Skills

The role requires strong results focus, teamwork, and communication skills. Essential abilities include building effective relationships, knowledge sharing, and continuous improvement. Proficiency in multimedia content creation, digital communications, developing communication strategies, managing visibility and media relations, and familiarity with project cycle management are crucial. The candidate must possess strong organizational and planning skills, along with excellent teamwork and interpersonal skills. A working knowledge of English (Level C) is mandatory, and the candidate must be a national of Somalia.

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