The Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) are looking for a Communication Specialist.
Overview:

Freelance, full-time 12-month contract
Language: English
Location: Rome, Italy (Remote)
Salary: not applicable
Applications closing: 3rd December

Job Description
Stakeholder network and movement for change, uniquely bringing together actors from 11 constituencies interested in the transformation of the Agri‑Food System. GFAiR is made up of around 1,000 member networks and institutions, working together through collective action and advocacy to shape the future of agriculture and food and their roles in achieving sustainable development. The members and partners in GFAiR come from around the world and from diverse constituencies, including small‑scale producers and farmers, consumers and civil society organizations, women and youth organizations, private sector representatives, public national and international research systems, agricultural advisory services, education systems, funding partners and UN organizations. GFAiR’s reach is achieved through these organizations and the many millions of people they involve.
The Global Forum on Agricultural Innovation and Research (GFAiR) promotes inclusive, collaborative, and forward‑looking approaches to agricultural innovation. The Global NARS Consortium (GNC), launched under GFAiR, seeks to strengthen collaboration and visibility of National Agricultural Research Systems (NARS) globally.
On behalf of GFAiR, the Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) is seeking a qualified consultant to support GFAiR in strengthening its visibility, coherence, and outreach. The GFAiR Secretariat requires communications support to design, manage, and implement effective communication strategies, tools, and products that meet the needs of both GFAiR and the GNC.
Responsibilities
Messaging

Review all the different messaging used for GFAiR and GNC and recommend base messaging to be used including:

Tag lines
Short descriptions
Long descriptions


Develop a messaging guideline for GFAiR staff and stakeholders to use.
Develop a gender inclusive guideline for GFAiR staff to use and to promote externally.
Develop a partner inclusive guideline for GFAiR staff to use and to promote externally.
Promote the usage of these guidelines along with the Branding Guidelines, through the appropriate channels.

Graphic Design & Branding

Finalize the logo options to include the full name for GFAiR and GNC.
Include a tag line in the graphic design.
Develop Branding Guidelines document for the logos and taglines.
Facilitate access to the logos and tag lines, in multiple forms for multiple use.
Train GFAiR and GNC staff on the Branding Guidelines and how to access and use the logos and tag lines.
Conduct periodic brand compliance reviews to ensure alignment and consistency across all channels.
Develop and deliver graphic designs on outputs as requested, e.g., PPTs, infographics, brief and document layouts, posters, flyers and designs on merchandise

Written Briefs, Advocacy documents and Mass media articles

Research and write communication material, as requested. This may include policy briefs, success stories, event packages, email (newsletters), stories for the website, media release, Op‑ed, etc.
Identify and engage relevant media channels, crafting targeted pitches to ensure optimal visibility and published coverage.

Manage GFAiR social media

Oversee GFAiR’s social media presence across existing platforms currently including Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube.
Develop a social media plan and guidelines for GFAiR, also covering the Collective Actions and GNC.
Assess and recommend the expansion of GFAiR’s social media presence.
Review and update all background information and branding on the social media sites.
Develop and content on GFAiR social media on a regular basis.
Review and engage with related social media accounts, including those of Collective Actions and related partners, Steering Committee members, GNC members, and staff, to enhance visibility and collaboration.
Provide social media analytics along with benchmarks, trend analyses, and actionable recommendations.

Website management

Provide regular website analytics identifying trends and benchmarks and make actionable recommendations. Review the website, make recommendations for improvement and assist with implementation.
Review the Search Engine Optimisation, make recommendations for improvement and assist with implementation.
Review the Regional Fora websites and social media (upon their approval) make recommendations for improvement and undertake the implementation.

These tasks need to be implemented taking into consideration that GFAiR and the Regional Fora are small organisations and developments of the website need to be carefully prioritised ensuring easy maintenance.
Deliverables

Consolidated communication strategy and six‑month plan – by 30 January 2026.
Monthly content calendars and analytics reports – by the end of each month.
At least 2 communication products posted on the website and social media every month (combined GFAiR/GNC) – ongoing.
Communication packages for 2–3 key events – delivered per event schedule.
Visual/multimedia materials (infographics, short videos, social media kits) – ongoing, minimum 2 products per month – ongoing.
Final report summarising outputs, lessons learned, and recommendations – by 6 January 2027.

Role Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree supplemented by master’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations, or related field.
Previous relevant professional experience (minimum 7 years) in communication roles, preferably in ecosystems, international development, agriculture, or research networks.
Strong expertise in digital communications, social media management, and knowledge product development.
Excellent English writing and editing skills (French or Spanish desirable).
Demonstrated ability to work with diverse stakeholders and deliver high‑quality outputs under deadlines.
Skills in visual design, multimedia production, and web content management.

How to apply?
Please apply online through the website no later than 3rd December 2025, attaching the following:

A detailed curriculum vitae (CV) (using the candidate’s last name, first name for ease of sorting).
References: Please provide thename and email address ofthree professional referees who have worked with you and are knowledgeable about your skills and professional abilities.
A technical proposal outlining your experience developing inclusive and coherent messaging, creating communication and branding materials, enhancing digital platforms (website and social media), and collaborating effectively with diverse teams. Highlight specific examples of content you have produced and approaches used to measure impact and guide improvements. (maximum 1 page).
Proposed consultancy fees for the period, indicated indaily USD.

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
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