Executive Communications Manager M25218

CIMMYT is a cutting edge, non-profit, international organization dedicated to solving tomorrow's problems today. It is entrusted with fostering improved quantity, quality, and dependability of production systems and basic cereals such as maize, wheat, triticale, sorghum, millets, and associated crops through applied agricultural science, particularly in the Global South, through building strong partnerships. This combination enhances the livelihood trajectories and resilience of millions of resource-poor farmers, while working towards a more productive, inclusive, and resilient agrifood system within planetary boundaries.

For more information, visit cimmyt.org.

CIMMYT is looking for an outstanding, self-motivated, and result-oriented professional for the position of Executive Communications Manager. The selected candidate will be part of CIMMYT’s Engagement Chapter and will report to the Head of Communications.

The location of this position will be at CIMMYT's headquarters in Texcoco, Mexico.

Specific duties:

Strategy

• Manage the Executive Communications operational plan aligned with CIMMYT’s mission, vision, and strategic goals to build reputation and maximize the policy and development impact of its research across the main target regions Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
• Provide strategic communications counsel to CIMMYT’s researchers and Leadership Team.
• Execute donor communications plans with the donor relations and fundraising services team as part of donors’ cultivation plans.
• Coordinate with the communications team to manage activities related to CGIAR Communications where and as needed.
• Provide input into Chapter strategy and operational plan.
• Manage workflows, including project scoping, prioritization, and scheduling, to ensure timely execution of all requirements.
• Keep abreast of the latest communication trends and technologies, ensuring that the organization is using the most effective tools and strategies.
• Manage and implement crisis communication plans to ensure that the company is prepared to respond to negative events.

Creative Hub

• Coordinate with Creative Hub Manager to implement campaigns, donor communications plans or strategies related to Executive Communications.
• Establish and enforce editorial policies and procedures, in line with C&O global policies and procedures.
• Translate CIMMYT’s mission and projects in concrete, tangible storylines with high human interest. Contribute to CGIAR publishing as required.
• Ensure that the company's brand voice is consistent across all regions and communication channels.

Media Relations

• Coordinate with the Media Relations Manager all activities involving the Executive team, including media events, speeches, interviews, press releases or any other activity related to media management. 
• Coordinate Production of press releases for news and media outlets (LATAM, Africa, Asia and Global) where Executive team is involved.

Social & Digital Communications

• Coordinate digital communications for the Executive team to support communications goal of positioning CIMMYT as a leader within food and agriculture.
• Manage and maintain social media profiles and accounts, including engaging with followers and responding to comments and inquiries to monitor social media channels for relevant conversations and trends.
• Monitor and evaluate CIMMYT’s communications and outreach digital platforms and regularly provide analysis and recommendations for improvements.
• Provide quarterly CIMMYT’s Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for social media, media, website, and publications related to the Executive team.

Internal Communications

• Lead strategic decisions on internal communications channels and tools including townhalls, intranet, newsletters, etc.
• Connect the CIMMYT worldwide with clear and consistent internal communication to contribute to staff engagement and retention.

Executive Communications

• Collaborate with researchers and communicators from CIMMYT, partners and donors on planning and implementing communications activities to position the activities and projects of CIMMYT’s Director General in a positive way before diverse audiences and sectors.
• Create and edit a variety of communications materials, including presentations, speeches, emails, press releases, and social media content.
• Ensure quality assurance and streamline event engagement for leadership team members.
• Provide guidance and support to senior leaders on communication matters, including media relations, crisis communications, and public speaking.
• Produce and consolidate CIMMYT Board reports and other materials for Board meetings.
• Offer support to scientists for media appearances for Spanish language and outlets as needed, including prepping spokespeople and preparing interviews with journalists and field visits.
• Produce content for the websites (English or Spanish), as requested by DGO and/or in support of global comms.
• Identify controversial issues and produce communications to mitigate any negative effects on CIMMYT’s reputation.
• Perform activities as assigned by his/her immediate supervisor to contribute to the fulfillment of CIMMYT’s Director General objectives.

 Regional Communications

• Coordinate Executive team communications related materials with Regional Communications Manager.

Administration

• Manage workflow and plans of Media Relations and ensure all output and deliverables are produced cost-efficiently and according to predetermined timelines guaranteeing internal clients’ satisfaction.
• Develop and manage the area budget, ensuring resources are allocated effectively.
• Conduct recruiting and onboarding processes to expand the team as needed.
• Promote the correct application of values and behaviors among the team, to promote CIMMYT’s culture in the Unit.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in communications or a related field.
• 6 to 10 years of experience in Communications, with a strong emphasis in internal and external communications, media relations management, campaign execution, social and digital communications.
• Strong knowledge of media outlets, journalists, content development, advocacy, media, writing, editing, and translation.
• Proficiency in digital content management systems, social media platforms, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Experience in Asia, Africa and Latin America regions.
• Experience in nonprofit or international development contexts is preferred.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities to manage multiple concurrent projects and deadlines effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to work closely with senior leadership to align communication strategies with business objectives.
• Exceptional written and verbal English skills, with the ability to convey complex messages clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences.
• The selected candidate should exhibit the following competencies: Team Leadership, Client Orientation, Critical and Creative Thinking, Teamwork, and Communication.

Benefits

CIMMYT offers an attractive remuneration package and support for continuous professional development. In addition to the provisions of the Mexican Labor Law our package of benefits includes year-end bonus (40 days), vacation premium (56%), life and medical insurance, supermarket coupons, savings fund, social Mexican benefits (IMSS, SAR / Infonavit).

Candidates must apply online for M25218_Executive Communications Manager. Screening and follow up of applications will begin on Friday, June 13th, 2025. Applications must include a CV and a cover letter. Incomplete applications will not be taken into consideration.

Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

This position will remain open until filled.

CIMMYT is an equal opportunity employer. It fosters a multicultural work environment that values gender equality, teamwork, and respect for diversity. Women are encouraged to apply.