Communications Officer - Speechwriter P-3 - Communications Division

The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is an international financial institution and a specialised United Nations agency dedicated to eradicating poverty and hunger in rural areas in developing countries. It does so by financing projects and programmes that increase agricultural productivity and raise rural incomes, and by advocating at local, national and international level for policies that enable poor rural people to overcome poverty.
	Division Context
	The Communications Division’s work covers a wide gamut of internal and external communications, including: event planning and coordination; media relations; writing and publications; graphic design and photography; radio, television and video production; web and electronic media; distribution; and information and knowledge management.
	Duties and Responsibilities
	Under the direct supervision of the Manager, Writing and Publications, the speechwriter will write and tailor clear, well-argued, well researched and powerful speeches and statements (written and oral), opinion editorials and other materials, as required, for the President and Vice-President of IFAD or their delegated representative, as well as other products. The speeches will contribute to advancing IFAD’s goal – to empower poor rural people to overcome poverty – by raising global awareness of rural poverty, the complexities of its causes and how IFAD’s work can and does contribute to its eradication. The speechwriter will perform the following duties: • Thoroughly research the subject matter to develop a sound understanding of the various issues, including ensuring that all data are properly and reliably sourced. • Produce an outline argument for each speech/statement/article, as appropriate. • Write and revise written products in consultation with colleagues from the Communications Division, the Office of the President and Vice-President, the Office of Strategy and Knowledge Management and IFAD technical experts. • Craft speeches and statements that are clear, concise, well-written, persuasive, inspiring and factually correct, and that fit with the speaker’s style of delivery. • Build and maintain a network of contacts – within and outside of IFAD – as a knowledge resource on various issues. • Liaise closely with key IFAD staff in advance of relevant speaking engagements to obtain content and background, ensure coordination and meeting of deadlines, and to provide the opportunity to review texts in draft. • Suggest topics for inclusion in speeches and articles, according to IFAD’s priorities, objectives and external opportunities. • Perform other duties as required.
	Education and Experience
	• University degree in communications, journalism or related discipline is required. Advanced University in the above-mentioned subjects would be an asset • At least five years of relevant professional experience in drafting public communications materials (speeches, statements, lectures, etc.) in English. • At least five years of professional knowledge in development – preferably agricultural/rural development – at the international level.
	Tech/Functional Competencies
	Results-oriented performer: Proven experience in writing speeches, statements and opinion editorials for senior staff for a variety of audiences and venues; good understanding of international development and the work done by international financial institutions; ability to exercise independent judgement, to make appropriate choices about content and to take responsibility for the accuracy of information. Planning and organizing: Proven ability to meet tight deadlines, often under pressure. Building relationships and networking: Effective communicator with the ability to convey recommendations to staff at all levels on how best to reach an audience; excellent interpersonal skills and ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships in a multicultural, multi-ethnic environment, with sensitivity and respect for diversity. Working in a team: Results-oriented, team contributor willing to brainstorm, share ideas, and edit and rewrite with colleagues.
	Communication
	• Ability to speak and write clearly and compellingly in English is essential. • Working knowledge of another IFAD official language (French, Spanish or Arabic) is an asset. • Ability to analyse audiences.
	Other Information
	Applicants should note that IFAD staff members are international civil servants subject to the authority of the President of IFAD, and they may be assigned by him/her to any of the activities of IFAD, including field assignments and/or rotation within IFAD. IFAD reserves the right to appoint a candidate at the appropriate grade commensurate with experience and knowledge. Interested candidates are requested to apply by completing IFAD’s Personal History Form (PHF) in English. A separate CV may be attached if you so desire, only as a supplement and NOT a substitute to the PHF. The application should be made through the online system only. PLEASE READ CAREFULLY the instructions in “How to Apply” before you start. In the interest of making most cost effective use of funds and resources, we are only able to respond to applicants who are short-listed for interview. Candidates who do not receive any feedback within three months should consider their application unsuccessful. Candidates may be required to take a written test and to deliver a presentation as well as participate in interviews.

Communications Officer - Speechwriter P-3 - Communications Division