Communication Officer at IITA - International Institute of Tropical Agriculture

Job Description

• We seek a skilled and experienced Communication Officer to join our team at IITA-BIP. The Communications Officer is in charge of managing and enhancing the organization's public image, handling internal and external communications, and producing internal newsletters for the organization.
• The successful candidate will be responsible for developing and implementing communication strategies that enhance awareness and visibility for the IITA-BIP and provide support for coordinating and leading all communication of all its projects and businesses.
• The role involves content creation, media management, social media engagement, and stakeholder relations to promote the project's objectives and progress.

Developed Communication Strategy:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive communication strategy for BIP, its subsidiaries and all its businesses and projects

Create and Manage Content:

• Draft, edit, and produce high-quality written and visual content for various channels, including press releases, newsletters, reports, social media, and the project website
• Oversee the project's presence on social media platforms, including content scheduling, audience engagement, and performance analysis

Media Relations and Stakeholder Engagement:

• Build and maintain relationships with local and national media outlets
• Organize press briefings, media tours, and interviews with key project stakeholders
• Maintain active communication with project stakeholders, officials, development partners, farmers, and the general public

Managed Events and Activities:

• Support stakeholders and consultants on events, workshops, field days, and other public activities, ensuring effective communication before, during, and after events

Monitoring and Reporting:

• Prepared reports on communication activities and media engagement for newsletter publication
• Coordinate with project partners and stakeholders to align communication efforts
• Provided communication support to joint initiatives and collaborations

Requirements

• MSc, B.Sc., HND, in Communication or related areas
• A minimum of 2 (two) years' working experience performing a similar role in a structured environment
• Experience working with international research institutes, development organizations, and the public sector
• Ability to coordinate team in multi-organization teams and manage consultants
• Technical skill: Proficiency in graphic design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite) or video editing tools is an added advantage
• Readiness to travel both scheduled and at short notices

Knowledge / Skills / Competencies:

• Good written and verbal communication skills
• Digital and social media literacy
• Media relations
• Creativity
• Expertise in managing and mitigating reputational risk
• Analytical skills
• Understanding of resource management and operational procedures
• Knowledge of Branding
• Cross-cultural awareness
• Problem-solving skills including the ability to prioritize and think quickly