Head of Communications

📌 Core Information

🔹 Job Title: Head of Communications

🔹 Company: CIMMYT

🔹 Location: Texcoco, Mexico

🔹 Job Type: Full-Time, On-Site

🔹 Category: Research Services

🔹 Date Posted: 2025-04-29

🔹 Experience Level: 10+ years

🔹 Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

• Leading strategic communications to support CIMMYT's mission and fundraising efforts
• Managing media relations and digital communications
• Overseeing a team to ensure effective internal and external messaging
• Collaborating with CGIAR Communications & Outreach Global Group on events, campaigns, and branding
• Providing strategic communications counsel to CIMMYT's executive and leadership team

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a high level of strategic thinking, leadership, and communication skills to effectively represent CIMMYT's mission and impact across various platforms and stakeholders.

📋 Key Responsibilities

✅ Design, lead, and execute a global communications plan aligned with CIMMYT’s mission

✅ Lead strategic communications to support fundraising efforts, including targeted donor communication plans and program communications implementation

✅ Provide strategic communications counsel to CIMMYT’s executive and leadership team

✅ Liaise and coordinate with the CGIAR Communications & Outreach Global Group on events, global campaigns, branding, and funder acknowledgements, thought-leadership narratives, key messages, media outreach activities, digital publishing, and more

✅ Provide input into the strategy and operational planning of other chapters to ensure strong representation for CIMMYT in global communication efforts and initiatives

✅ Coordinate across teams to manage internal, external, event, and regional communications across Africa, Asia, and Latin America

✅ Keep appraised of the latest communication trends and technologies, ensuring that the company 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

✅ Participate in Board meetings and committees as needed

✅ Ensure consistent brand expression and powerful visuals through creative services

✅ Oversee the creation of high-quality content for various channels, including internal communications, executive communications, websites, social media, email, and publications

✅ Manage and edit a wide variety of information, knowledge, and corporate products as required, ensuring that content is delivered to the highest quality and according to requirements

✅ 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

✅ Lead proactive and reactive media outreach, securing coverage that aligns with CIMMYT’s key audiences and regions

✅ Serve as a spokesperson for the organization, representing its mission and impact to the public

✅ Manage the team working with on- and offline media. Maintain relationships with top-tier media outlets and journalists

✅ Work with the team to prep executives and leadership team members and other scientific spokespeople

✅ Manage crisis communications and the potential for negative coverage

✅ Guide and approve final versions of external content, working with a team of content developers to amplify CIMMYT’s messages

✅ Lead digital communications to support communications goals and objectives

✅ Oversee strategic decisions on channels, digital strategies, and campaigns

✅ Oversee 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

✅ Lead a team of development professionals, ensuring they have the necessary resources and support to succeed

✅ Develop and manage the DFS department budget, track fundraising performance, and report on progress to the Board and leadership

✅ Lead annual plans, regular 1:1s, and annual appraisals to ensure objectives and targets are accomplished

✅ Promote collaborative work across the department

✅ Develop and maintain systems to monitor and evaluate the objectives and activities of the team, including reporting on performance

✅ Drive the accepted application of values and behaviors among the members of the DFS Department, promoting adherence to CIMMYT’s culture

✅ Oversee executive communications to ensure CIMMYT’s key messages position the organization within different stakeholders

✅ Review speeches, remarks, and visuals prepared for executive team communications

✅ Manage systems to 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

✅ Manage a regional team focused on creative services, media relations, social & digital communications, internal and executive communications to make sure all these services are aligned with CIMMYT’s mission, vision, and strategic goals

✅ Ensure all regions contribute to building reputation and maximize the policy and development impact of CIMMYT’s impact across the main target regions Asia, Africa, and Latin America

✅ Supervise a multicultural team of staff and consultants across multiple time zones to maximize their productivity, innovation, and outputs in support of CIMMYT’s communications strategy

✅ Oversee workflow and plans of CIMMYT’s communications department and ensure all output and deliverables are produced cost-efficiently and according to predetermined timelines guaranteeing internal clients’ satisfaction

✅ Create a high-performing team that strives for excellence and supports the CIMMYT mission for impact with a culture of shared accountability and results orientation

✅ Develop and constantly update a global roster of cost-efficient, high-quality freelance editors, translators, designers, web programmers, and other specialists

✅ Mentor and empower the communication department to pursue innovative approaches and set demanding metrics for engagement that deliver results in a fast-changing, competitive external communications environment and build the organization’s brand

✅ Develop and manage the communications budget, ensuring resources are allocated effectively

✅ Conduct recruiting and onboarding processes to expand the team as needed

✅ Drive the correct application of values and behaviors among the team, to promote CIMMYT’s culture in the Unit

ASSUMPTION: This role involves a wide range of responsibilities, requiring a strong leader with excellent communication, strategic planning, and team management skills to succeed.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: Advanced degree in communications, journalism, digital communications, marketing, or a similar related field

Experience: Minimum of 10 years of relevant professional experience in communications, preferably in the fields of agricultural research, international development, or related sectors (of which at least five years’ experience in a comparable position)

Required Skills:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex technical information into clear, compelling narratives for diverse audiences
• Strong editorial skills, including writing, editing, and proofreading, with attention to detail and accuracy
• Proficiency in digital communication tools and platforms, including content management systems, social media management tools, and email marketing platforms
• Ability to develop and implement strategic communication plans and initiatives, aligning them with organizational goals and priorities
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Experience in media relations, including building relationships with journalists and securing media coverage for organizational initiatives and activities
• Familiarity with fundraising strategies and techniques, particularly in the context of international development or research organizations
• Commitment to integrity, professionalism, and ethical conduct in all aspects of work
• Flexibility and adaptability to navigate complex organizational structures and changing priorities
• Passion for CIMMYT's mission and a genuine interest in contributing to global agricultural research and development efforts

Preferred Skills:

• Certification or training in project management, communications strategy development, or related areas

ASSUMPTION: Candidates with a strong background in strategic communications, media relations, and team leadership are most likely to succeed in this role.

💰 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The salary range for this position is not explicitly stated. However, based on industry standards for a Head of Communications role in the non-profit sector, with 10+ years of experience, and considering the location in Mexico, the estimated salary range is MXN 1,200,000 - 1,800,000 per year (approximately USD 60,000 - 90,000).

Benefits:

• Housing Allowance
• Car
• Comprehensive Health and Life Insurance
• Assistance for Children’s Education
• Paid Vacation
• Annual Home Travel Airfare
• Contribution to a Retirement Plan
• Generous Assistance with Relocation Shipment

Working Hours: Full-time, 40 hours per week

ASSUMPTION: The provided salary range is an estimate based on industry standards and may vary depending on the candidate's experience and qualifications.

📌 Applicant Insights

🔍 Company Context

Industry: CIMMYT operates in the research services industry, focusing on applied agricultural science and global agricultural research and development.

Company Size: CIMMYT is a mid-sized organization with 51-200 employees, providing a collaborative and dynamic work environment that values teamwork and shared accountability.

Founded: CIMMYT was founded in 1966 and has since grown to become a leading international research organization dedicated to improving the livelihoods of millions of people worldwide.

Company Description:

• 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

Company Specialties:

• Research
• Maize
• Wheat
• Agriculture
• Breeding
• Developing countries
• Agronomy
• Breeding
• Biotechnology
• Socioeconomics
• Dryland crops
• Legumes
• And food systems transformation

Company Website: http://www.cimmyt.org

ASSUMPTION: CIMMYT's mission and work focus on improving global food security and supporting smallholder farmers, making it an impactful organization to work for in the agricultural research and development sector.

📊 Role Analysis

Career Level: This role is at the senior leadership level, requiring a high degree of strategic thinking, communication, and team management skills.

Reporting Structure: The Head of Communications will report directly to the Chief Engagement Officer (CNO) and oversee a team of communications professionals across multiple regions.

Work Arrangement: This is an on-site position based in Texcoco, Mexico, with the possibility of occasional travel to other CIMMYT locations and events.

Growth Opportunities:

• Potential career progression within CIMMYT's communications department or related fields
• Opportunities to work on high-impact global communications campaigns and initiatives
• Possibility to expand the team and take on additional responsibilities as the organization grows

ASSUMPTION: This role offers significant growth potential for the right candidate, both in terms of career advancement and impact on CIMMYT's global communications efforts.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: CIMMYT's headquarters is a modern research campus with state-of-the-art facilities and a collaborative work environment.

Office Location(s): Texcoco, Mexico

Geographic Context:

• Texcoco is located approximately 30 kilometers northeast of Mexico City, in the State of Mexico
• The region has a subtropical highland climate, with mild winters and warm summers
• Texcoco is known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and proximity to Mexico City's amenities

Work Schedule: The work schedule for this position is full-time, with standard office hours from Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with a one-hour lunch break. However, the role may require occasional work outside of regular office hours to meet deadlines or attend events.

ASSUMPTION: The work environment at CIMMYT's headquarters is collaborative, dynamic, and multicultural, with a strong focus on teamwork and shared accountability.

💼 Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

• Online application submission through the provided link
• Phone or video screening with the HR department
• In-depth interviews with the hiring manager and relevant team members
• Final interviews with senior leadership
• Background and reference checks
• Job offer and onboarding

Key Assessment Areas:

• Communication skills, both written and verbal
• Strategic thinking and planning abilities
• Leadership and team management skills
• Media relations and digital communications expertise
• Cultural fit and alignment with CIMMYT's mission and values

Application Tips:

• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences for this role
• Demonstrate your understanding of CIMMYT's mission and the specific requirements of the Head of Communications position
• Showcase your strategic communications, media relations, and team leadership abilities
• Provide specific examples of your past accomplishments and how they relate to the responsibilities of this role
• Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewers about the organization, team, and the position to demonstrate your interest and engagement

ATS Keywords: Strategic Communications, Media Relations, Digital Communications, Team Leadership, Crisis Management, Fundraising, Global Communications, Agricultural Research, International Development, Non-Profit Sector

ASSUMPTION: The application process for this role is competitive, and candidates should tailor their materials and prepare thoroughly to increase their chances of success.

🛠️ Tools & Technologies

• Content management systems (e.g., WordPress, Drupal)
• Social media management tools (e.g., Hootsuite, Buffer)
• Email marketing platforms (e.g., Mailchimp, Constant Contact)
• Design and graphics software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, Canva)
• Video and audio editing software (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, Audacity)

ASSUMPTION: Proficiency in relevant communication tools and platforms is essential for success in this role.

👔 Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

• Integrity
• Professionalism
• Excellence
• Collaboration
• Innovation
• Accountability
• Respect
• Diversity
• Equity

Work Style:

• CIMMYT values a dynamic, collaborative, and multicultural work environment
• The organization encourages teamwork, shared accountability, and a results-oriented culture
• CIMMYT fosters a culture of continuous learning and professional development
• The work style is fast-paced, with a focus on meeting deadlines and adapting to changing priorities

Self-Assessment Questions:

• How do your personal values align with CIMMYT's organizational values?
• How do you approach working in a multicultural, collaborative team environment?
• How do you balance meeting deadlines and adapting to changing priorities in a fast-paced work environment?

ASSUMPTION: Candidates who demonstrate a strong fit with CIMMYT's values and work style are more likely to succeed in this role and contribute to the organization's mission and culture.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

• The role requires managing a diverse team across multiple time zones and regions, which can present unique communication and coordination challenges
• The fast-paced nature of the work may require occasional overtime or working on weekends to meet deadlines
• The role involves managing crisis communications, which can be stressful and demanding during high-stakes situations
• The competitive nature of the non-profit sector may require constant adaptation and innovation to maintain CIMMYT's reputation and impact

ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be prepared to navigate these challenges and demonstrate resilience, adaptability, and strong communication skills to succeed in this role.

📈 Similar Roles Comparison

• Compared to related roles in the non-profit sector, this position offers a unique opportunity to lead strategic communications efforts for a global research organization focused on improving food security and supporting smallholder farmers
• Unlike roles in the private sector, this position offers the chance to work on high-impact global communications campaigns and initiatives with a clear focus on social impact and sustainability
• Career progression in this role may differ from that in the private sector, with potential opportunities for growth within CIMMYT's communications department or related fields

ASSUMPTION: Candidates should consider the unique aspects of this role and how it aligns with their career goals and personal values when comparing it to other positions in the field.

📝 Sample Projects

• Developing and executing a global communications plan to support CIMMYT's mission and fundraising efforts
• Managing media relations and digital communications for a high-profile event or conference
• Leading a team to create a comprehensive brand guide and style manual for CIMMYT
• Collaborating with CGIAR Communications & Outreach Global Group on a global campaign to raise awareness about a critical agricultural issue

ASSUMPTION: These sample projects illustrate the diverse and impactful nature of the work involved in the Head of Communications role at CIMMYT.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

• Can you describe the team structure and dynamics within the communications department?
• How does the organization support work-life balance for employees in this role?
• What are the most significant challenges facing the communications department currently, and how can this role address them?
• How does CIMMYT measure the success and impact of its communications efforts?
• What opportunities are there for professional development and growth within the organization?

ASSUMPTION: Asking thoughtful and relevant questions during the interview demonstrates your interest in the role and helps you make an informed decision about your potential fit with the organization.

📌 Next Steps for Applicants

To apply for this position:

• Submit your application through the provided link
• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences for this role
• Prepare for phone or video screening interviews with the HR department and in-depth interviews with the hiring manager and relevant team members
• Research CIMMYT's mission, values, and work to demonstrate your understanding and alignment with the organization
• Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewers about the organization, team, and the position to demonstrate your interest and engagement
• Follow up with the HR department after each interview stage to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role
• If selected for the final round of interviews, be prepared to discuss your salary expectations and negotiate the terms of the offer

⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.