WGI Blog
Working Group I of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change is filling the position of
Communications Manager, IPCC WGI Technical Support Unit
Located at the University of Paris-Saclay (France)
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has begun its Sixth Assessment (AR6) cycle. Working Group I (WGI) assesses the physical scientific knowledge basis of the climate system and climate change. The WGI Technical Support Unit (TSU) provides the scientific, technical and organizational support of the activities and products of the WGI.
The TSU is seeking an experienced climate science communications specialist to join a multi-disciplinary team in a dynamic, international working environment. The TSU works at the unique interface of the IPCC between science and policy in the provision of the climate information that is relevant for policy needs and decision making. The TSU as a whole provides scientific, technical, operational and communications support for the activities and products of WGI. We are a dynamic team working tightly together on the development and preparation of all aspects of the WGI assessment. Join a team that spans different areas of expertise in global and regional climate modeling, climate processes (including oceanography, atmospheric chemistry, and land-surface processes) visual design and communication, policy development and international project management.
You will work closely with our science and visual design specialist and in close collaboration with the IPCC Communications Action Team and media specialists that support the strategic communication activities of the IPCC more broadly. This position reports to the Head of the TSU and the Head of Science, and works closely with the IPCC Head of Communications and Media Relations.
Your primary responsibility will be the preparation and management of the launch of the WGI Sixth Assessment report to the media and public. You will work directly with IPCC Authors, Bureau members and the TSU, to develop impactful messages to increase the accessibility and impact of the WGI assessment. You will work closely with the IPCC Secretariat to refine and execute a communications strategy to reach targeted audiences through a variety of communications and outreach efforts. You will play a leading role in the preparation of outreach materials including presentations and products tailored for communicating the assessment findings to the general public. Together with the IPCC Secretariat, you will oversee the public launch of the report, including the global media strategy, the embargoed press information package and the press conference. This also includes preparing and training Authors and Bureau members to serve as spokespeople, contributing to the organization of stakeholder engagement activities, as well as outreach events and media briefings.
This is an exceptional opportunity to be part of the unique IPCC process and make a core contribution at a pivotal time in climate science communication, showcasing the results of the assessment, the maturation and the value of fundamental climate science research. The successful candidate will take on the challenge of communicating and increasing literacy of the concepts and results of the assessment in an international context to stakeholders, including governments, IPCC observer organizations, and the UNFCCC, as well as the broader non-specialist audience. You will also communicate the report and work of WGI to the scientific community, for example organizing participation at major events and scientific conferences.
Qualifications:
- Over five years previous experience in climate science communications, preferably in support of a government agency, science body, or policy-oriented organization;
- Demonstrated track record of success in developing an effective, multi-faceted communications strategy and achieving communication impact goals;
- Experience with press engagement, including press conferences, management of incoming requests from global media, story placement, and interview booking.
- Proficiency in drafting press releases, talking points, opinion pieces, and pitches.
- Familiarity with rapid response communications strategies.
- Understanding the best practices of content strategies for the main social media channels, including Twitter and Facebook.
- Fluency with media analysis across mediums, including print/online and social.
- Academic education related to climate science would be desirable.
- Experience developing a variety of communication products including: graphics, infographics, brochures, videos, etc.
- Event development and management experience, including virtual events.
Attributes
- Self-starter, a motivated collaborative thinker that seeks and creates opportunities;
- High mobility and motivation to work in an international team with a common long-term goal;
- Ability to plan, organize and execute multi-task problems to meet deadlines;
- A strong team player who is willing to step up to support others as needed and is looking forward to inspiring interactions with the international climate science community;
- Capacity to respect time constraints and stress-resistance;
- Proficiency in written and spoken English; working knowledge of French would be an asset;
- Previous experience of the IPCC or other international activities would be an asset.
- Willingness to undertake international travel.
- Good networking skills, active press contacts and a strong ability to build relationships with reporters, editors, producers and bookers.
- Ability to maintain composure and think clearly in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment.
- Demonstrated ability to think critically, creatively and innovatively.
- Ability to communicate science to a range of specialist and non-specialist audiences.
- Understanding of the political and social context for climate science.
The position is until 31 December 2021, with the possibility of extension. Availability to start in Summer 2020.