National Communication Specialist

Organizational Context

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency dedicated to achieving food security for all and leading international efforts to defeat hunger. Working in over 130 countries, FAO supports the transformation to efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems. FAO Country Offices provide policy advice, technical assistance, and capacity development, aligning with national priorities and the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework. FAO China collaborates with national partners to advance rural revitalization, environmental sustainability, and international cooperation, aiming to increase the visibility of its global and country-level work.

Job Purpose

The National Communication Specialist will coordinate and lead the implementation of the FAO Representation's Communication Strategy in China, ensuring alignment with OCC's global strategy. The role is crucial for enhancing the visibility of FAO's work and supporting national efforts to achieve Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in poverty and hunger eradication. By engaging various stakeholders through mass media and other outreach channels, the incumbent will promote FAO's image as an accessible, multidisciplinary institution capable of rapid response and action, thereby strengthening its corporate presence and impact among policymakers, technical experts, academia, NGOs, donors, and the general public.

Responsibilities

Support the implementation of the FAO China Communication Strategy, aligning with the Country Programming Framework, Regional Initiatives, FAO-China South-South Cooperation Programme, and UNSDCF. Develop and maintain strategic partnerships with media networks and enhance internal media outreach capacity. Curate information and create digital assets for FAO's social media channels (WeChat, Weibo, Toutiao, Douyin), adhering to FAO guidelines and coordinating with technical officers, RCO, and OCC. Advocate for FAO's mandates and purposes within the country. Provide technical support for communication plans and campaigns, including key events like World Food Day. Prepare and disseminate press releases and social media content about FAO projects and activities. Strengthen FAO's media relations and public visibility, facilitating interviews and managing the FAOCN website. Create and maintain a national media database, and contribute photos to the FAO Mediabase. Track and report on media coverage involving FAO. Provide communication training to FAOCN staff and project management offices. Ensure all communication materials comply with FAO standards and clearance processes, including those for FAO DPRK.

Work Experience

A minimum of three years of relevant professional experience in communication, journalism, media engagement, or public relations is required. Experience should align with the educational background in journalism, communications, public relations, or television production. Candidates should demonstrate practical application of these skills in a professional setting.

Skills

Key competencies include Results Focus, Teamwork, Communication, Building Effective Relationships, and Knowledge Sharing. Essential skills involve proficiency in managing various online social platforms (Weibo, Wechat), a strong understanding of strategic communication, and solid written and visual communication abilities. Experience in news field reporting, newsgathering, and writing for major media outlets is highly valued. Established contacts with local media and proven networking experience are crucial. The ability to support event organization, interviews, and social media maintenance at international and national levels is required. Demonstrated ability to work in and motivate a diverse team, foster an inclusive atmosphere, and operate effectively under pressure are also important.

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