Job Description National Communication Expert
Primary Location
: Saudi Arabia-Riyadh
Organizational Setting
The Programme Management Unit (PMU) of the FAO-Saudi Technical Cooperation Programme (2019-2025) facilitates, coordinates and manages all technical and advisory services to be provided by FAO to the Saudi Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MoEWA). The project “UTF/SAU/051/SAU Strengthening MoEWA’s Capacity to Implement the Sustainable Rural Agricultural Development Programme” is the first project that has been approved within the framework of FAO-Saudi Technical Cooperation Programme (2019-2025). The project will provide technical and advisory assistance to the MoEWA in implementing its flagship sustainable rural agricultural development programme that has recently been approved within the context of the National Transformation Programme of the Saudi Vision 2030. The project expected results will be achieved through implementation of nine project components: 1) Development of coffee Arabica production, processing and marketing; 2) Development of beekeeping and honey production; 3) Development of rose production and trade; 4) Development of sub-tropical fruits production, processing and marketing; 5) Strengthening capacity of small-scale fishermen and fish farmers; 6) Strengthening capacity of small-scale livestock herders; 7) Development of rainfed cereals production; 8) Enhancing value addition from smallholdings and rural activities; and 9) Strengthening MoEWA’s capacity in sustainable management of rangelands, forests and natural resources to support rural livelihoods. An overall plan and budget is developed and approved, including activities and outputs that are expected to be accomplished under each component. Requirements for international technical expertise of each component have been identified. In order to ensure a coordinated, smooth, timely and successful implementation of the project, long-term competent international technical advisors are appointed as Component Managers to each of the nine components. Each Component Manager is supported by a team of international consultants and experts who are technical specialists in the subject matters of the various outputs and activities.
Reporting Lines
The National Communication Expert will report to the Technical Advisor under the overall guidance of the National Component Manager- Natural Resources Management in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Technical Focus
The National Communication Expert will contribute to the implementation of the output 6 of the project component on “Strengthening MoEWA’s capacity in sustainable management of rangelands, forests and natural resources to support rural livelihoods”. He/she will be responsible for development of comprehensive communication and outreach strategies and plans for natural resources management in KSA. The expert will play a vital role in facilitating the dissemination of information and knowledge on sustainable land management practices and enhancing public environmental and natural resource conservation awareness in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Tasks and responsibilities
In close collaborations with the Regional Communication and Knowledge Management Officer in RNE, and Regional Communications Network coordinators, the incumbent will directly seek, in liaison with the country teams, to fulfil the following tasks:
• Work closely with FAO-NRM team, NCVC and other project stakeholders to identify communication needs and develop targeted communication materials.
• Collaborate with FAO-NRM team and other project stakeholders and media outlets to develop and implement a comprehensive communication and outreach plan with clear objectives aiming at disseminating and enhancing public awareness and understanding of environmental sustainability and natural resource management and conservation.
• Craft concise, clear, and action-oriented key messages and select appropriate communication channels, including traditional media, digital platforms, community events, workshops, and partnerships and ensure consistency in messaging and branding across all communication channels.
• Collaborate with graphic designers, videographers, and content creators to produce visually engaging materials such as infographics, videos, and animations to communicate key messages effectively.
• Identify key target audiences, including governmental institutions, local communities, schools, businesses, policymakers, and specific user groups and establish a reliable network of environmental-related associations and NGOs for collaboration and knowledge sharing.
• Create and disseminate engaging and informative content through various channels, including websites, social media platforms, press releases, newsletters, and reports. Regularly update this content to keep it relevant and timely.
• Coordinate with the National Centre for Vegetation Cover and Combating Desertification (NCVC) to ensure alignment of communication activities and ensure content is accessible, culturally sensitive, and tailored to different audience segments.
• Facilitate communication within the project team and between project partners to ensure seamless information sharing and alignment of objectives
• Plan and organize diverse outreach activities, including workshops, seminars, field trips, in close collaboration with NRM team and NCVC. Tailor activities to the areas of work/interests of NCVC to ensure engagement.
• Adapt communication materials to local languages, cultural contexts, and regional preferences to ensure inclusivity and relevance
• Set up mechanisms to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of communication and outreach efforts, use metrics such as website traffic, social media engagement, event attendance, and surveys to measure reach, impact, and feedback.
• Stay informed about emerging trends and new communication technologies to adapt strategies as needed.
• Oversee and support ongoing awareness initiatives and campaigns related to natural resources and the environment.
• Collaborate with relevant organizations and stakeholders to align communication efforts with global and local campaigns.
• Develop and implement country-level awareness initiatives tailored to the context of Saudi Arabia and collaborate with NCVC, and community organizations to enhance the effectiveness and reach of these campaigns.
• Coordinate activities related to international or United Nations (UN) days focusing on natural resources and the environment.
• Plan and execute awareness-raising activities, engage stakeholders, and align initiatives with global observances.
• Monitor and evaluate the impact of communication activities and provide regular reports to project management.
FAO Standards and guidelines:
• Liaison with OCC will be maintained, either directly or through an agreed focal point/coordinator, to ensure compliance with OCC standards, aligned messaging, and appropriate review and clearance processes.
• All communication materials will follow FAO clearance processes and comply with FAO standards, including:
FAO Strategic Framework 2022-31:
FAO social media policy and guidelines:
Social Media Branding Guidelines:
FAOSTYLE
FAO terminology
FAO Names of Countries
Story guidelines, Story template, UN map standards, FAO logo policy and related branding guidelines (available to staff).
• Further guidance regarding FAO communications, policies and procedures can be found through the FAO intranet, OCC section.
CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING
Minimum Requirements
• University degree in Communication, Journalism or a related field.
• At least five years of relevant experience in corporate communications, public information, journalism, or international relations. Professional experience in working with the food security sector would be considered an asset.
