Communications Officer - Pakistan

Communications Officer - Pakistan

- Contract to 30 November 2026, with potential extension

- Location: Islamabad, Pakistan

A great opportunity to lead strategic communications that promote agricultural research-for-development impact across Pakistan.

About the role

AVI, on behalf of the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), is seeking a skilled Communications Officer to develop and implement ACIARs communications strategy in Pakistan. The role focuses on producing high quality communication products, strengthening stakeholder engagement and showcasing the value and impact of ACIAR-funded research across the country.

Working as part of the Pakistan Country Office and in close collaboration with the Outreach team in Canberra, the Communications Officer will coordinate national communications activities, develop content for digital and print platforms and engage with local media, where required. They will contribute to building strong partnerships with government, research institutions and the Australian High Commission. The role also collaborates regularly with the Communications Officer in New Delhi to ensure consistency across the South Asia region.

About ACIAR

The  Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR)  is an Australian Government agency that supports agricultural research partnerships between Australian scientists and global partners. ACIAR operates 10 regional and country offices across the Indo-Pacific and Africa, including its Pakistan office in Islamabad. In Pakistan, ACIAR manages collaborations across 10 active projects, working in areas such as agribusiness, crops, horticulture, livestock systems and water, with a strong focus on climate resilience, equitable benefits, and strengthening scientific capability.

Learn more at:  www.aciar.gov.au

Key responsibilities

• Lead the development, implementation and monitoring of ACIAR Pakistan's communications and stakeholder engagement strategy.
• Produce compelling, high-quality communication materials, including talking points, briefs, success stories, videos, photos, social media content and presentations.
• Coordinate dissemination of communication products at country, regional and global levels, in line with ACIAR branding and guidelines.
• Travel to ACIAR project sites to gather stories, interviews, photos and video content.
• Facilitate media relations, including drafting press releases, developing media contacts, and organising press events.
• Support outreach activities and events and maintain strong relationships with ACIAR partners and stakeholders.
• Represent ACIAR professionally across forums, public diplomacy initiatives and communications networks.
• Ensure compliance with ACIAR, DFAT and APS brand, communications and ethical standards.

About you

You will bring:

• Tertiary qualifications in  Communications, Journalism, Public Affairs, Social Sciences, International Relations , or a related field.
• Extensive experience in development communications at a mid–senior level.
• Proven experience leading communication strategies and plans.
• Demonstrated ability to produce high quality written, digital and multimedia content.
• Experience with agricultural research-for-development communications (highly desirable).
• Strong interpersonal and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Excellent written and verbal English and fluency in a local language (advantageous).
• Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities and collaborate effectively within a small team.

The position is open to Pakistan nationals and those eligible to work in Pakistan. A valid police check will be required.

Please find a copy of the position description here

Application Process

Click on the APPLY NOW button to submit a cover letter and a current resume by 9am Monday 23 March 2026 AEST.