The Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) and World Agroforestry (ICRAF) are at the forefront of environmental research and development, working tirelessly to build a more equitable world where trees in all landscapes—from drylands to the humid tropics—enhance environmental sustainability and human well-being. As members of the CGIAR, a global research partnership for a food-secure future, CIFOR and ICRAF leverage over 65 years of collective knowledge and scientific excellence to address critical global challenges including climate change, biodiversity loss, and energy insecurity.
In pursuit of our mission to apply cutting-edge research and foster impactful partnerships, we are pleased to announce an exciting opportunity to join our dynamic team.
We are currently recruiting for the following position:
Head of Global Outreach and Engagement
Reference number: 100104
Job Status: In-progress
Job Category: Local Position
Duty Station: Nairobi, Kenya or Bogor, Indonesia
Application Deadline: 08 June 2025
About the Role
As Head of Global Outreach and Engagement, you will play a pivotal leadership role in directing CIFOR-ICRAF’s global outreach and engagement initiatives. Reporting directly to the Director of Communication, Outreach and Engagement, this position works closely with internal stakeholders including senior management and researchers, as well as external stakeholders such as international donors and global partners. The successful candidate will lead a team of editors, events specialists, and media professionals to elevate CIFOR-ICRAF’s voice in global discourse.
This role requires a dynamic, strategic, and results-driven communicator who understands how to craft compelling stories, maximize visibility, and effectively engage audiences across various platforms.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
- Global Outreach and Engagement Strategy:
Develop, implement, and report on the outreach and engagement components of CIFOR-ICRAF’s global communications strategy to ensure alignment with institutional goals and measurable outcomes. - Executive Communication:
Provide high-level communications support for public-facing events, including messaging development, speech writing, media interactions, and presentations that resonate with international audiences and stakeholders. - Event Oversight:
Manage CIFOR-ICRAF’s presence at major international events, ensuring professional execution and maximum visibility through strategic planning and coordination of the events team. - Social Media Leadership:
Direct the social media program by setting strategic goals, guiding implementation, and analyzing results to enhance reach and engagement. - Media Relations:
Develop and execute a high-impact media strategy, foster relationships with key journalists and media houses, handle press inquiries, and generate coverage that supports institutional objectives. - Email Marketing:
Oversee strategic email campaigns that align with broader outreach objectives and deliver measurable impact. - Multimedia Content Oversight:
Lead the planning and execution of the organization’s film and photo initiatives to ensure high-quality visual storytelling. - Digital Platform Management:
Supervise CIFOR-ICRAF’s main website and associated news sites by leading editorial strategy, managing a team of editors and writers, and ensuring timely and impactful content output. - Budget Management:
Manage the Communications, Outreach and Engagement budget efficiently, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
Requirements
- Education:
Master’s degree or equivalent experience in international relations, communications, journalism, or a related field. - Experience:
- Minimum of 8 years in a fast-paced, high-level communications environment—ideally with international exposure and a focus on science or development.
- Proven ability to use diverse communication tools and methods to effectively target and engage stakeholders.
- Experience writing for diverse platforms with a strong portfolio of compelling content creation.
- Demonstrated success in managing cross-functional communications teams.
- Track record of delivering high-impact public relations and media campaigns.
- Competence in managing digital content strategies and web platforms.
- Familiarity with monitoring and evaluating communication performance.
- Experience in a research institution or development agency is a plus.
- Skills:
- Strong writing and editorial capabilities.
- In-depth understanding of both traditional and digital media landscapes.
- Exceptional project management and organizational skills.
- Leadership and people management abilities.
- Native-level fluency in English; knowledge of additional languages such as French, Spanish, or Indonesian is an advantage.
Terms and Conditions
- Position Type: Globally Recruited Staff (GRS)
- Remuneration: Competitive salary in USD, commensurate with experience and skills.
- Contract Duration: One year, including a six-month probationary period, with the possibility of extension based on performance and organizational needs.
- Location: Nairobi, Kenya or Bogor, Indonesia
Why Join CIFOR-ICRAF?
Working with CIFOR-ICRAF means becoming part of a visionary, multidisciplinary institution committed to research excellence and real-world impact. Our diverse team works collaboratively to create solutions for a sustainable planet. You will gain the opportunity to:
- Influence global policy through evidence-based research.
- Engage with thought leaders and stakeholders across sectors and geographies.
- Lead communication initiatives that shape the future of climate and biodiversity advocacy.
- Contribute to projects that improve the livelihoods of communities worldwide.
How to Apply
To view the full job description and begin your application, please refer to the attached PDF for more detailed information. If you’re ready to take your career to the next level and make a meaningful impact through global outreach, we want to hear from you.
