IRS24154 Media Relations Manager

CIMMYT is a cutting edge, non-profit, international organization dedicated to solving tomorrow's problems today. It is entrusted with fostering improved quantity, quality, and dependability of production systems and basic cereals such as maize, wheat, triticale, sorghum, millets, and associated crops through applied agricultural science, particularly in the Global South, through building strong partnerships. This combination enhances the livelihood trajectories and resilience of millions of resource-poor farmers, while working towards a more productive, inclusive, and resilient agrifood system within planetary boundaries.

For more information, visit cimmyt.org.

The Media Relations Manager will lead CIMMYT’s Media Relations team, developing CIMMYT’s media presence and managing high-level editorial strategies. This role is instrumental in supporting resource-poor farmers through enhanced visibility of CIMMYT’s mission and achievements.

The location of this position will be CIMMIT HQ’s, Texcoco, Mexico.

Specific duties:

• Media Relations and Strategy:
• Build and manage CIMMYT’s relationships with international media, particularly outlets and journalists who cover agro-science, food systems, and humanitarian topics.
• Leverage an existing network of media contacts, particularly in outlets focused on global development, science, and agriculture.
• Act as the primary behind-the-scenes spokesperson for CIMMYT, ensuring media messaging aligns with CIMMYT’s mission and strategic goals.
• Develop and execute a comprehensive media relations strategy to globally promote CIMMYT’s research and initiatives.
• Secure high-level press coverage, interviews, and feature stories through proactive collaboration with international media outlets.
• Team Management and Leadership:
• Develop, lead and manage the HQ Content and Press team.
• Mentor and develop the team to produce high-quality content and manage press relations effectively.
• Collaborate across departments to align editorial and press strategies with CIMMYT’s research, programs, and overall communications goals.
• Editorial Oversight and Content Creation:
• Set the editorial vision and strategy for CIMMYT’s content, focusing on producing scientifically accurate and engaging materials.
• Oversee the creation of high-quality content, such as press releases, articles, reports, and digital content, aligned with CIMMYT’s mission.
• Stay updated on the latest editorial techniques, science communication trends, and copywriting innovations to keep CIMMYT’s content at the forefront.
• Ensure consistent editorial standards across all platforms, balancing technical accuracy with engaging storytelling.
• Spokesperson and Messaging Development:
• Act as the behind-the-scenes spokesperson for CIMMYT, developing media messages and coordinating press strategies for the Director General and senior leadership.
• Prepare media briefings, talking points, and press kits for the Director General, ensuring communications reflect CIMMYT’s priorities.
• Coordinate press messaging for key events, reports, and research releases, working closely with international media to ensure positive, accurate coverage.
• Team Growth and Workflow Development:
• Support the future recruitment and integration of a press officer to assist with day-to-day media relations and press activities.
• Establish efficient workflows for the Content and Press team to enhance content creation, editing, and media engagement processes.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, Journalism, Public Relations, International Relations, or a related field. A master’s degree in communications or a related field is preferred.
• Minimum of 8-10 years in press management or communications, with significant experience in International Non-Governmental Organizations (INGOs) or organizations like FAO, UN agencies, or similar institutions.
• Extensive experience with international media, particularly in agro-science, food systems, and humanitarian issues.
• Proven track record of building and managing media relationships with high-profile global media organizations.
• Experience managing or leading small communications or editorial teams, focusing on press relations and content development.
• High-level English proficiency is required, proficiency in additional languages, particularly Spanish or French, is an advantage but not required.
• Strong relationships with international journalists and media outlets covering agro-science, food security, and humanitarian topics.
• Deep understanding of press management, media relations, and the latest trends in science communication and editorial techniques.
• Culturally sensitive, with the ability to work professionally with global media outlets.
• The selected candidate should exhibit the following competencies: Client Orientation, Critical and Creative Thinking, Problem Solving and Decision Making, Teamwork, and Communication.

The position is for an initial fixed term of three (3) years, after which further employment is subject to performance and the continued availability of funds. CIMMYT’s internationally competitive salary and benefits include housing allowance, car, comprehensive health and life insurance, assistance for children’s education, paid vacation, annual home travel airfare, contribution to a retirement plan, and generous assistance with relocation shipment.

Benefits

Candidates must apply online for IRS24154_ Media Relations Manager.

Screening and follow up of applications will begin on January 20th, 2024.

Applications must include a CV with contact details (telephone and email address) of 3 work-related references along with the confirmation that Recruitment can contact them) and a cover letter.

Incomplete applications will not be taken into consideration.

Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

This position will remain open until filled.

CIMMYT is an equal opportunity employer. It fosters a multicultural work environment that values gender equality, teamwork, and respect for diversity. Women are encouraged to apply.