Communication Specialist (International Consultant)

Organizational Setting

FAO is currently implementing the “Towards sustainable management of the Canary Current Large Marine Ecosystem (CCLME) – initial support to SAP implementation” project in seven participating countries: Cabo Verde, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, Morocco, Senegal and The Gambia. Those countries have a high dependence on fisheries resources, whether for its contribution to their economic growth, to the countries’ food security and nutrition or their livelihoods. During the previous project’s phase, a Transboundary Diagnostic Analysis (TDA) identified as major perceived transboundary problems in the CCLME region the decline in living marine resources, the degradation of habitats and the deterioration of water quality. On this basis, a CCLME Strategic Action Programme (SAP) focused on solutions, management actions, activities planning and implementation to address these transboundary issues was made. SAP execution is critical to put in place a suite of measures based on an ecosystem approach to management that can affect real change to rebuild fish stocks, reverse habitat degradation and improve water quality. This project aims to capitalize on momentum and partnerships built during the previous project phase to create enabling conditions for effective implementation of the CCLME SAP, through the establishment of mechanisms for cooperation, partnerships and financing for full-scale SAP implementation.

Reporting Lines

The international consultant will report to the Head, Marine and Inland Fisheries Branch (NFIF) acting as the Budget Holder through the CCLME Regional Project Coordinator and work in close collaboration with the other staff of the project, the National Project Focal Points and partners, the designated Lead Technical Officer (LTO) and other relevant FAO staff, in particular the FAO Office of Communications (OCC).

Technical Focus

The Communication Specialist will ensure the communication and visibility of the project, organise and contribute to the preparation and disseminating of information relevant to the CCLME according to the targeted audience in line with FAO rules and procedures.

Tasks and responsibilities

• Update and implement the project’s communication strategy and tools for knowledge management, with a special emphasis on intensifying internal communication, giving enough room for liaison work and regular contacts between the RCU, national structures and OCC in FAO
• Maintain the CCLME website consistent with IW-LEARN requirements, ensuring that information gathered and generated by the project is uploaded into website in a regular basis;
• Establish linkages between the CCLME website and with relevant partners and initiatives ( e.g. UNEP, IOC-UNESCO, PRCM, WB projects, Abidjan convention, EAF-Nansen Programme, CECAF etc ) as well as with regional economic groupings (ECOWAS and NEPAD) and other relevant information systems and databases;
• Produce electronic newsletters, upload downloadable documents and images, upload presentation of lessons learned, and include linkages to other useful sources in the project webpage;
• Map and analyse existing scientific communications platforms and opportunities for communication at regional level;
• Develop appropriate information supports to disseminate information in the region and beyond, including material targeting civil society and NGOs to raise awareness about CCLME region challenges such as declining marine living resources, habitat degradation and declining water quality;
• Prepare local and national media briefs on progress, outcomes, lessons learned and experiences of the project for both newspapers and radio of CCLME countries;
• Disseminate information on progress, outcomes, lessons learned and experience from the project
• Contribute to the preparation of the communication aspects of the Symposium to present and disseminate all scientific findings;
• Contribute to the development of awareness raising publications for various stakeholders;

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, Broadcast Communication, Visual Arts and Design, Development Communication, or related disciplines;
• At least 5 years of experience in fields related to the assignment;
• Working knowledge of English and French.

FAO Core Competencies

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

Selection Criteria

• Relevant experience in public relations, communications, or advocacy;
• Experience with website design and maintenance;
• Experience working with government, civil society, international organizations, and donors;
• Previous work experience in the region on similar issues favourably considered.
• Knowledge of Portuguese would be an asset.

Given the COVID-19 pandemic the selected candidate may be required to remotely from home station until the situation in Senegal improves and local COVID-19 regulations allows work in the office.