February 4, 2025

CALL FOR APPLICATIONS

Director of Communication and Outreach

Shape the conversation on global food security and agricultural development

About the Crawford Fund

The Crawford Fund is dedicated to strengthening Australia’s role in international agricultural research for development. We work to enhance food and nutrition security through capacity building, training, education, and outreach. Our mission connects policymakers, researchers, and the broader community to address critical global food security challenges.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a Director of Communication and Outreach to lead our engagement strategy, amplify our mission, and strengthen stakeholder relationships. The position has become available as the present incumbent moves to a position of Director of Special Projects as she winds down her activities in the Crawford Fund.

As a key leader in our organisation, you will increase the Fund’s visibility, foster meaningful engagement, and drive strategic communication, event management, and media outreach.

This is an exciting career opportunity for a proactive project manager and communicator with further leadership potential. While early-career candidates may find the position challenging, we also welcome applications from early-to-mid stages professionals who can demonstrate the required skills and expertise, or the capacity to quickly grow into the role.

The position offers flexible and negotiable work arrangements. While our office is in Canberra, this role can be performed remotely from anywhere in Australia. Travel is required for staff and board meetings, as well as internal and external events.

Join our small but dedicated team, supported by a Board of highly experienced directors, and help drive solutions for global food security.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Communications & Outreach

• Develop and implement communication strategies in collaboration with the CEO and Board to enhance visibility and impact.

Stakeholder Engagement & Media Relations

• Strengthening relationships with key partners, including ACIAR, DFAT and industry leaders.
• Oversee media and public relations, including website management, newsletters and social media.

Event Leadership

• Lead the planning and execution of the Crawford Fund Annual Conference, including the prestigious Sir John Crawford Address and scholar programs.
• Support outreach events and provide communication assistance to state and territory committees.

Program Management & Fundraising

• Oversee outreach programs, including the Next Gen Program.
• Assist in securing sponsorships and supporting fundraising initiatives.

High-Level Engagements

• Coordinate communication and outreach for high-profile international visits and partnerships.

Key Selection Criteria

We are looking for a proactive, strategic thinker eager to grow as a leader and manager. The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

• An enthusiasm for international agricultural research and development, with an understanding of global food security challenges and Australia’s role in addressing them.
• Experience in communications and stakeholder engagement, ideally within international development, agriculture or the non-profit sector.
• Strong project management and organisational skills, with the ability to work independently and remotely.
• Event management expertise, including planning and delivering high-profile conferences and programs.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience in media relations, digital marketing and content creation.
• Understanding of fundraising and sponsorship acquisition, with a focus on outreach and engagement.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a globally respected organisation making a real impact on food security.
• Lead high-profile programs and initiatives that influence policy and awareness.
• Enjoy flexible work arrangements, with opportunities for travel and professional growth.
• Work within a collaborative, mission-driven team that values innovation, engagement and impact.

Remuneration and Work Arrangements

• Reports directly to the Chief Executive.
• Applicants must be Australian or New Zealand citizens or hold a permanent residency visa.
• Competitive remuneration package.
• Full-time preferred, but a negotiable fractional appointment is possible (minimum 8/9-day fortnight).
• Flexibility required during peak periods, including major events and board meetings.
• It is intended that an appointment will be made in a timely manner to enable an effective handover of key functions of the role, and to achieve a better balance of functions across the whole staff team.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a CV and a short pitch (maximum two pages) outlining:

1. What excites you about this role?
2. Why do you want to be part of the Crawford Fund?
3. How does this opportunity align with your values, aspirations, and career goals?

We are looking for candidates who bring passion and purpose—not just a list of skills and experiences.

Submit applications to Sarah Paradice [email protected] by Monday 3 March 2025.

This position will remain open until a suitable candidate is found. The Crawford Fund reserves the right to make an appointment by invitation.

For more information about the Crawford Fund, visit: https://www.crawfordfund.org

For a confidential discussion, contact Shaun Coffey, Chief Executive at [email protected]