Project Communications Assistant

Organizational Setting

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) contributes to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda through the FAO Strategic Framework by supporting the transformation to MORE efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable agrifood systems, for better production, better nutrition, a better environment and a better life, leaving no one behind.

FAO is a specialized agency of the UN that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. FAO's goal is to achieve food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. With 195 Members (194 countries and the European Union), FAO works in over 130 countries worldwide.

FAO Country Offices, working under overall corporate guidance and in line with the Strategic Framework, offer policy advice and support to countries in the mandated areas of FAO, facilitated through partnerships, resources and an active country programme to provide technical assistance, develop capacities and deliver core services while fully observing international standards of accountability to establish leadership and strengthen impact at the country level.

The offices deliver on the programmatic priorities of each country as agreed in their respective Country Programming Frameworks (CPFs) aligned to the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) and ensure effective and efficient operations with adequate human and financial resources.

Specifically, FAO Country Offices

• advocate, inform and support policies and investments in the areas of FAO’s mandate;
  
  

(ii) provide technical assistance and deliver core services;

(iii) assist and catalyse partnership and resource mobilization activities to support agrifood systems transformation;

(iv) position FAO as the specialized/authoritative technical agency in food and agriculture and agrifood systems transformation; and

(v) ensure risk-smart and accountable operations and management.

For more than four decades, FAO has been working with the Government of the Philippines, civil society, community-based organizations, the academe and the private sector to address challenges in the agriculture, fisheries and forestry sector. Joint efforts have included increasing sustainability in agricultural production, promoting value-adding practices, mechanization and modernization through improving post-harvest management, enhancing productivity and increasing the resilience of agriculture-based livelihoods to natural disasters, climatic hazards and armed conflict.

The position is located in the FAO Country Office in the Philippines.

Reporting Lines

The Project Communications Assistant will report to the Assistant FAO Philippines Representative for Programmes, in coordination with the Project Coordinator.

Technical Focus

Assist in the implementation of communication activities and operational tasks. This includes aiding in the coordination of communication materials, preparation of reports, and ensuring compliance with organizational standards and guidelines.

Tasks And Responsibilities

In close collaboration with Office of Communications (OCC) branches and appropriate Communication focal points, the incumbent will:

• Assist in the development and coordination of communication plans, ensuring alignment with project objectives and organizational guidelines.
• Support the preparation and dissemination of culturally sensitive and audience-appropriate communication materials, including press releases, social media posts, and audiovisual content.
• Collaborate with partners and agencies to gather data, stories, and visuals for reports, presentations, and campaigns.
• Provide logistical and operational support during training sessions, stakeholder meetings, and communication events.
• Aid in data entry, organization, and maintenance of information systems related to communication deliverables.
• Prepare draft reports, presentations, and documentation to support communication activities.
• Assist in coordinating with relevant government agencies, local government units, and project partners to ensure smooth implementation of assigned tasks.
• Provide on-site or remote support during communication-related activities and events as needed.
• Carry out other related duties as required.
  
  

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: https://www.fao.org/strategic-framework/en

FAO social media policy and guidelines: https://www.fao.org/2/socialmedia

Social Media Branding Guidelines: https://openknowledge.fao.org/handle/20.500.14283/cb5044en

FAOSTYLE https://openknowledge.fao.org/handle/20.500.14283/cb8081en

FAO terminology http://www.fao.org/faoterm

FAO Names Of Countries https://www.fao.org/nocs/en   

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 Communications, Development Studies, or related field.
• At least 3 years of relevant experience in supporting communication activities.
• Full proficiency / working knowledge (level C) of English
• National of the Philippines
  
  

FAO Core Competencies

• Results Focus
• Teamwork
• Communication
• Building Effective Relationships
• Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement
  
  

Technical/Functional Skills

• Familiarity with the work of international organizations, national governments, or regional entities.
• Basic understanding of communication strategies, tools, and techniques.
• Proficiency in standard office software, such as MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Ability to follow organizational guidelines and contribute to achieving project objectives.
  
  

Selection Criteria

• Experience in supporting the development and implementation of communication plans and strategies.
• Demonstrated ability to prepare and disseminate culturally sensitive communication materials.
• Experience in coordinating with multiple stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and community organizations.
• Proficiency in using social media and content management tools to enhance visibility and outreach.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in managing tasks and deliverables.
  
  

Additional Information

• FAO does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview meeting, processing)
• Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted
• Please note that FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from an institution accredited/recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED), a list updated by the International Association of Universities (IAU) / United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The list can be accessed at http://www.whed.net/
• For additional employment opportunities visit the FAO employment website: http://www.fao.org/employment/home/en/
• Appointment will be subject to certification that the candidate is medically fit for appointment, accreditation, any residency or visa requirements, and security clearances.
  
  

Job Posting

10/Jan/2025

Closure Date

24/Jan/2025, 4:59:00 PM

Organizational Unit

FAPHI - FAO Representation in The Philippines

Job Type

Non-staff opportunities

Type of Requisition

NPP (National Project Personnel)

Grade Level

N/A

Primary Location

Philippines-Mandaluyong City

Duration

4 months

Post Number

N/A

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Please note that Closure Date and Time displayed above are based on date and time settings of your personal device

• FAO is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality, background and culture
• Qualified female applicants, qualified nationals of non-and under-represented Members and person with disabilities are encouraged to apply
• Everyone who works for FAO is required to adhere to the highest standards of integrity and professional conduct, and to uphold FAO's values
• FAO, as a Specialized Agency of the United Nations, has a zero-tolerance policy for conduct that is incompatible with its status, objectives and mandate, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination
• All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks
• All applications will be treated with the strictest confidentiality
  
  

FAO’s commitment to environmental sustainability is integral to our strategic objectives and operations.