The International Water Management Institute (IWMI), a CGIAR Research Center, is seeking a versatile Professional to join its headquarters in Battaramulla, Sri Lanka, as a Senior Communications Specialist.

The Senior Communications Specialist will play a crucial role within the Communications & Knowledge Management (CKM) unit which leads the implementation of IWMI’s communications strategy, through innovative communications and outreach activities. The team raises IWMI’s profile, increases the impact of research, and engages in global conversations about water systems.

The Senior Communications Specialist will support the design and implementation of strategic communications, will develop content, and will support events and campaigns.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Support the development and implementation of IWMI’s communications strategy.
• Develop communications outputs and materials, in collaboration with IWMI researchers and staff.
• Draft and edit news articles, features, blogs, op-eds, success stories, briefs, infographics, presentations, reports, newsletters, etc. Liaise with authors and reviewers for edits and approvals.
• Manage content on IWMI websites. Update web copy, information, and metadata.
• Lead the editorial aspect of multimedia projects, such as videos, podcasts, and infographics.
• Support or lead IWMI presence at events (conferences, workshops, webinars etc..). Lead or coordinate communications plans, communications materials, liaison with partners, media engagement, etc.
• Support or lead campaigns. Coordinate specific international advocacy initiatives, engagement related to research, and outreach linked to international days.
• Support proactive media outreach and engagement activities.
• If required, support or lead the design and implementation of communications plans for IWMI projects.
• If required, support or lead the design and implementation of communications plans for CGIAR Initiatives in which IWMI and/or Water Systems are involved.
• Support the design and implementation of internal communications strategies and activities.
• Collaborate with Communications & Knowledge Management colleagues, IWMI teams in global offices, CGIAR centers and offices, or other partners as needed.
• Participate in meetings of the Communications & Knowledge Management team, to ensure coordination and strategic alignment.
• Undertake any other tasks identified as priorities by the Global Communications Lead for Water Systems and the Director General.

Requirements

EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

Essential,

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant field such as communications, knowledge management, media, public relations, or journalism. Alternatively, in the fields of agriculture, natural resource management or environment, but with significant communications experience.
• A minimum of 7-10 years’ experience in communications-related work.

Desirable

• Demonstrated understanding of agricultural, environmental and development issues preferred.
• Willingness to undertake limited travel to Asia, Africa, Europe and other locations as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

Essential

• Demonstrated knowledge of communications processes and technologies.
• Excellent English writing and editing skills.
• High level of proficiency with Microsoft Office, web applications, and social media outlets required. Photography, graphic design, presentation and facilitation skills are a bonus.
• Organized and detail-oriented, with the ability to handle multiple deadlines and a variety of tasks.
• Demonstrated ability to produce high-quality written and digital materials.
• Strong analytical and interviewing skills.
• Ability to grasp scientific and technical concepts and communicate them clearly to various audiences.
• Ability to be a positive team player with good interpersonal skills, and be able to work with people from a wide variety of cultures.

Benefits

This is a nationally recruited position and only Sri Lankan nationals will be considered. IWMI offers a competitive salary and benefits package, inclusive of health insurance, life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance, and long-term disability coverage. The duration of the contract will initially be for a period of three years with the possibility of extension.

HOW TO APPLY: Apply for the position by following the application instructions at www.iwmi.org/jobs. We will be accepting applications through 24:00 (IST) on February 14, 2025 (applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis). Your application must include a CV, cover letter, and three (3) references, which may be contacted if you are shortlisted. Receipt of all applications will be acknowledged, but only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

IWMI believes that diversity powers our innovation, contributes to our excellence, and is critical for our mission. We offer a multi-cultural, multi-color, multi-generational and multi-disciplinary working environment. We are consciously creating an inclusive organization that reflects our global character and our commitment to gender equity. We, therefore, encourage applicants from all cultures, races, ethnicities, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientations, and gender identities.

Level of Education: Bachelor Degree

Work Hours: 8

Experience in Months: No requirements