The Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR-ICRAF) is a globally recognized organization at the forefront of advancing sustainable forestry and agroforestry. With its headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya, CIFOR-ICRAF brings together leading scientists, policy experts, and partners to shape sustainable solutions for some of the world’s most pressing environmental and development challenges.
Events and conferences play a central role in amplifying CIFOR-ICRAF’s voice and impact. From convening thought leaders at international platforms to driving regional dialogues on sustainability, these engagements serve as powerful catalysts for change. To strengthen its global presence and ensure seamless coordination of these critical initiatives, CIFOR-ICRAF is re-advertising the role of Global Events and Conferences Manager.
This position offers an exciting opportunity for a seasoned events professional who is passionate about making a difference on a global scale. Based in Nairobi, Kenya, the role will sit within the Administration function but will cut across themes, regions, and campaigns, providing leadership in designing and executing impactful conferences and events.
Position: Global Events and Conferences Manager
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Unit: Administration
Posted on: September 25, 2025
The Global Events and Conferences Manager will be responsible for driving CIFOR-ICRAF’s global events strategy, ensuring world-class planning, execution, and delivery of both digital and in-person engagements. This role requires a dynamic individual with exceptional organizational, communication, and leadership skills who can coordinate with internal teams, external partners, and global stakeholders to bring CIFOR-ICRAF’s mission to life through impactful events.
Key Responsibilities
- Digital Events Management:
- Source and implement a cutting-edge digital events platform to support CIFOR-ICRAF’s digital and hybrid events.
- Ensure the platform meets diverse organizational needs while maintaining high levels of accessibility and user engagement.
- Communications and Strategy:
- Develop and execute comprehensive communications plans for each event, covering briefs, editorial agendas, speaking notes, run-of-show guides, and communications strategies.
- Collaborate with CIFOR-ICRAF scientists to draft and prepare concept notes aligned with campaigns, events, and online initiatives of global significance, including the Global Landscapes Forum and other thematic or regional engagements.
- Event Planning and Logistics:
- Provide full-spectrum event planning and logistical services for CIFOR-ICRAF’s themes and regions.
- Prepare detailed post-event reports and lessons learned to contribute to the organization’s knowledge management efforts.
- Build and manage a comprehensive global events program that enhances the institution’s global impact.
- Financial Oversight:
- Manage and monitor events budgets, ensuring cost-effectiveness and alignment with organizational priorities.
- Report on budget utilization and optimize resource allocation.
- Stakeholder Engagement:
- Act as a focal point for managing relationships with stakeholders, partners, and organizations relevant to CIFOR-ICRAF’s conferences.
- Support relationship-building efforts that expand CIFOR-ICRAF’s influence in agriculture, forestry, and related sectors.
- Team and Vendor Management:
- Hire, manage, and oversee subcontractors, consultants, and staff engaged in global events delivery.
- Ensure strong coordination with scientists and the Communications, Outreach, and Engagement (COE) unit.
- Foster collaboration and synergy across all event-related teams.
- Contract and Compliance:
- Lead the preparation and execution of all conference contracts.
- Ensure compliance with organizational and legal requirements in event delivery.
- Systems and Knowledge Development:
- Coordinate the organization’s Events Management System, events webpage, and events calendar.
- Conduct research to expand the event portfolio, ensuring CIFOR-ICRAF maximizes its impact on global sustainability discourse.
- Collaboration:
- Work closely with members of the CIFOR-ICRAF COE team to deliver events that are innovative, effective, and aligned with organizational objectives.
Why Join CIFOR-ICRAF?
This is more than just an events management role—it’s an opportunity to be at the heart of global dialogues shaping the future of our planet. By joining CIFOR-ICRAF, you will:
- Contribute to internationally recognized events that influence global policies and practices.
- Collaborate with scientists, leaders, and organizations at the cutting edge of sustainable development.
- Play a vital role in enhancing CIFOR-ICRAF’s visibility and impact across the forestry, agriculture, and environmental sectors.
- Be part of a diverse, global team working with passion and commitment to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable land use.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to apply for the Global Events and Conferences Manager position at CIFOR-ICRAF.
