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Communication Specialist at ICRA

BACKGROUND
ICRA
 – The International Centre for development oriented Research in Agriculture  – was established in 1981 by European donors to the CGIAR, to link agricultural research to development. Since then, ICRA has evolved considerably, from an organization mainly focused on individual training in Europe to include an emphasis on building the capacity of organizations and partnerships in the South for agricultural innovation processes. We therefore work with research, universities and technical colleges, agricultural advisory services and agribusiness, but are most interested in the area of collective innovation where these organizations work in partnership.

ICRA is a relatively small but growing international organization; with currently 20 full- and part-time staff members and professional associates located at one of its two main offices in Wageningen, Netherlands, and Montpellier, France, as well as in Africa (Nairobi, Accra and Pretoria) and Latin America (Bolivia). Following a review of our communication needs (e.g. within ICRA’s dispersed staff, between ICRA and its alumni, current and prospective project partners, supporters, etc.), we have identified the need for a half-time communication specialist to work closely with, and support our current staff, reporting to the Director.

ICRA has an internationally oriented, informal and transparent working culture within the organisation. We offer a dynamic working environment where there is room for personal ideas and initiatives.

RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Generally increase the awareness of and showcase ICRA’s activities and achievements, and manage the development of ICRA’s “brand”.
2. Lead and coordinate the development of ICRA’s presence and flow of content through social media, blogs, online discussion groups, webinars, etc.
3. Identify opportunities for, and manage local and international press coverage regarding activities, success stories, partnerships, etc.
4. Lead the development and implementation of a communications strategy  for the organization, identifying key messages tailored to specific audience groups.
5. Lead and coordinate the development of communications resources, including:
• ICRA’s website (contributing to content, layout, editing)
• Online and printed annual report, newsletters, case studies, publicity material, etc.
• Display materials, etc.
6. Support the development and the editing of training materials and learning resources (online and printed).

DESIRED PROFILE
• Relevant academic qualification (journalism, marketing, communication, PR) with strong conceptual skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English, preferably also in French with other languages (e.g. Spanish) as an added advantage.
• Working experience (at least 2-3 years) in the field of journalism, communications or marketing.
• Experience with website development and social media
• Experience with IT software such as Microsoft Office 365, Adobe Creative Cloud, email marketing tools, etc.
• Storytelling expertise and creativity.
• Affinity with ICRA’s field of work, good interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, resourcefulness and flexibility.

SALARY AND BENEFITS
The position will be based at the ICRA office in Wageningen, The Netherlands. The position is expected to be 62%, equivalent to 24 hours per week. The salary will be based on qualifications and experience, with a maximum of EUR 3,497 gross per month (full time equivalent). Applicants should be European nationals or in possession of a valid work permit.

TO APPLY
Please send your letter of application, with detailed Curriculum Vitae in English, names of three referees, and your contact details to the ICRA secretariat: info@icra-edu.org .  Closing date for receiving applications is May 30, 2014. For further general information please contact Ans Brom or Saskia Vleer (+31-(0)317- 422938). Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed during June-July.

The selected candidate is expected to join our team before September 2014, at the latest. The initial appointment is for one year with the possibility of extension. ICRA is an equal opportunity employer.

ICRA  –  P.O. Box 578, 6700AN, Wageningen, The Netherlands
Tel.+31 317 422 938, fax: +31 317 427 046
E-mail: info@icra-edu.orghttp://www.icra-edu.org