After successfully completing a six-month probation period, the appointment will initially be for two years, with a possibility of extension of the first contract.

• Provide leadership and coordination for all communication activities of the Centre to enhance icipe’s visibility and credibility as a centre of excellence by supporting the development and implementation of a comprehensive communications strategy to raise the profile of icipe’s corporate brand, programmes, projects and individual researchers.
• Strengthen and diversify icipe’s communications products by reviewing the adequacy of icipe’s current communication materials and recommending improvements. Oversee the design and production of icipe’s various publications, including press releases, corporate reports, brochures, training materials, newsletters, social media posts and the website.
• Provide communication/information advice and assistance to icipe teams, helping them to meet their visibility obligations to donors and partners either by assigning the work to the internal icipe team or by contracting the work to consultants, and coach research and support staff on the implementation of the communications strategy.
• Share icipe’s work widely in local and international media, meeting our obligations to donors, collaborating with partners and stakeholders, and bringing the results of our research to those who might benefit from it.
• Ensure effective and appealing internal communication on icipe business, relevant topics, strategies and management decisions through internal bulletins, intranet and meetings, and help to organise workshops, seminars, exhibitions and employee functions in liaison with the management team.
• Ensure crisis preparedness and communications procedures are known and respected.
• Establish and manage an annual budget for communication functions in a responsible and cost-effective manner.
• To be accountable for all communication activities of the Centre including advocacy and liaison activities with organisations with similar interests locally and internationally.

• Knowledge of media advertising and publishing is essential.
• Highly proficient in both spoken and written English. Knowledge of oral and written French is an added advantage.
• Computer proficiency particularly in MS Office Suite, and familiarity with desktop publishing and spreadsheet software is essential.
• Familiarity with Apple Macintosh computers is an added advantage.

• Degree in journalism, communications or related specification is essential.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills are mandatory.

• 5 years of related professional experience in positions of responsibility in an international or commercial organisation with an international scope.
• Experience in journalism/media relations.
• Proven track record in team leading, and capabilities in driving and developing a communications team.
• Strong in relationship building with journalists and other relevant external and internal stakeholder groups.
• High degree of organisation, adaptability and prioritisation, and documentation skills.
• Ability to think strategically and to develop and execute a strategic communications plan, as well as the supporting messages and communication activities.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and well within teams.