BACKGROUND

The International Water Management Institute (IWMI) is an international, research-for-development organization that works with governments, civil society and the private sector to solve water problems in developing countries and scale up solutions. Through partnership, IWMI combines research on the sustainable use of water and land resources, knowledge services and products with capacity strengthening, dialogue and policy analysis to support implementation of water management solutions for agriculture, ecosystems, climate change and inclusive economic growth. Headquartered in Colombo, Sri Lanka, IWMI is a CGIAR Research Center with offices in 15 countries and a global network of scientists operating in more than 55 countries.

IWMI’s websites are crucial resources for researchers, academics, policymakers, journalists, students and the general public. Key to their success are the quality and accessibility of the writing, the strong scientific base, the volume of stories published and the production of special features.

IWMI is looking for independent consultants to write articles for IWMI’s web and other online platforms. The Writers will research and write science-based news articles that reflect the impact of IWMI’s work in engaging ways. The Writers will work with IWMI editors from the Communications & Knowledge Management team, who will assign stories based on research publications, events, media interest and web traffic trends. Writers must fact-check their articles and work collaboratively with researchers and partners through the editing and approval process.

Contractors or consultants responding to this advertisement should have exceptional writing, editing and research skills, ideally in the field of environmental science or international development. Writers must be able to write accurately and creatively, use storytelling to weave together information from multiple sources, and meet deadlines.

OBJECTIVE OF THE ASSIGNMENT

Through desk research and interviews, Writers will analyze complex scientific information, which they will translate into clear, easy-to-digest and original content. They will use a diverse range of formats: news stories, feature articles, explainers, listicles, interviews, profiles, press releases, opinion pieces, etc.

They will tailor their approach and writing style to reach out to specific audiences (policymakers, funders, researchers, the general public, etc.) in fresh and innovative ways.

Their content will be distributed through IWMI’s digital channels and other platforms, to raise awareness and encourage action about global issues related to IWMI’s work, as well as to promote the organization’s research and activities.

SCOPE OF WORK

• Respond to IWMI editors’ requests, indicating availability and estimated number of hours/days needed for the specific assignment.
• Pitch story ideas to IWMI editors, based on organizational strategic priorities and events, as well as wider trends in the climate and agriculture space.
• Review publications and incorporate other relevant sources into the research and reporting processes.
• Organize and conduct interviews, often across time zones, with authors and subject-matter experts.
• Write and edit articles assigned by IWMI editors: news stories, features, explainers, listicles, interviews, profiles, press releases, opinion pieces, etc.
• Fact-check content for accuracy, and copyedit the story to make it clear and engaging.
• Liaise with IWMI editors for reviews, and with researchers for approvals.
• Follow IWMI’s style guide and other formatting and submission guidelines.
• Cover events from IWMI and partners when necessary, generating quick-turnaround coverage.
• Fulfill other types of writing assignments when necessary, such as concept notes, scripts and presentations.

Requirements

REQUIREMENTS

Essential:

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications or a related field. Alternatively, degrees in other fields might be considered along with significant experience in journalism and writing.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience as a writer or editor for online or print media.

Desirable:

• Understanding of environmental, agricultural and international development issues.
• Experience with science communications and/or environmental communications.

SKILLS & ABILITIES

Essential:

• Excellent English writing and editing skills.
• Strong understanding of journalistic writing, fact-checking principles, and AP style.
• Creative, with a flair for narrative and storytelling.
• Proven ability to digest, critically analyze and present complex information clearly, concisely and compellingly to non-scientific audiences.
• Excellent understanding of multiple types of content formats and good understanding of the complementary use of photos, text and multimedia.
• Experience interviewing and doing research using multiple sources.
• High level of proficiency with Microsoft Office and web applications.
• Organized and detail-oriented, and able to meet deadlines while handling a variety of tasks.
• Flexible and able to work effectively across different time zones.

Desirable:

• Knowledge of other major languages used in the regions where IWMI operates.

Benefits

TERMS AND CONDITIONS 

This is a consultant position, based on assignments and deliverables. Selected candidates will be included in a roster. As such, there should be no expectation of a contract nor a minimum number of assignments.

Consultants will be home-based and will use their own equipment.

Consultants selected for the roster must agree to abide by IWMI’s code of conduct, conflict of interest, confidentiality, and other policies.

Selection for the roster will be valid for three years. IWMI may consider renewing the agreement for future assignments based on quality and performance.

The quoted daily rate should be commensurate with experience and in line with industry standards. This rate will apply for the full period that the consultant is on the roster — but can be reconsidered if roster membership is extended.

APPLICATION PROCESS 

To submit an expression of interest, please submit the following as separate documents in PDF format:

• Cover letter expressing interest, presenting your experience and skills, and indicating which areas of IWMI’s work you would be keener to write on based on your interest or experience.
• A current CV or resume.
• Five recent writing samples in a variety of formats and styles, published online. You may include hyperlinks (preferred) or the full text indicating the outlet and date of publication.

• Two professional references.
• Your daily rate in USD.

The deadline to apply is 04th December 2023

Applications will be reviewed and included in the roster on a rolling basis through the stated deadline.

We will acknowledge all applications, but only short-listed candidates will be contacted.