Knowledge Exchange and Engagement Officer

Vacancy – Water Footprint Network

Position:         Knowledge Exchange and Engagement Officer

Start Date:     1 March 2013

Based in:         Enschede, the Netherlands

The Water Footprint Network (WFN) is a dynamic, international, continuous learning community with hundreds of partners worldwide committed to promoting sustainable, equitable and efficient water use through the advancement of the Water Footprint.  Established in 2008 with partners from academia, NGOs, international organisations and business sectors, WFN is a fast growing organization at the cutting edge of the methodology, data, tools and application of the water footprint concept and Water Footprint Assessment. Currently the Water Footprint Network is seeking a Knowledge Exchange and Engagement Officer (m/f).

Background

The Water Footprint Network is the leading international organization supporting the development of the water footprint concept and the application of Water Footprint Assessment.  This is a rapidly growing and innovative field which requires quick capture and dissemination of advances.  As a small organization seeking to have global impact, the Water Footprint Network must facilitate international, cross-sector dialogue on and uptake of these advances and use all communication tools available to engage key stakeholders – public and private – in transforming the way we use water such that it is sustainable, efficient and equitable.  As a centre of excellence for the water footprint and Water Footprint Assessment, the Water Footprint Network’s work programme consists of:

1. Developing standards, methods, guidelines and criteria for Water Footprint Assessment;
2. Facilitating Water Footprint Assessment research and development;
3. Promoting training, knowledge exchange & dissemination;
4. Developing practical tools for Water Footprint Assessment;
5. Supporting organizations in conducting a Water Footprint Assessment and developing a sustainable and fair water policy; and
6. Reviewing and certifying the use of the Water Footprint concept.

The Knowledge Exchange and Engagement Officer will directly assist the Executive Director on key projects focused on improving and expanding face-to-face and virtual communications, consultations and engagement with WFN partners, stakeholders, practitioners and the general public and in this way will strengthen the delivery of each of the above activities in the work programme.    

Major Duties and Responsibilities:

                        Key project areas are:

• Improve and expand our online presence including revision and management of WFN website www.waterfootprint.org and social media
• Facilitate timely knowledge exchange and dissemination through establishment of a virtual platform, face-to-face events and publications
• Provide regular communications with partners and interested parties through newsletters, Annual Reports, outreach and targeted consultations
• Develop consistency in corporate identity in all communications and training materials
• Assist development of a five year strategic plan

Project areas will evolve over time. 

Working Relationships

The Knowledge Exchange and Engagement Officer is supervised by the Executive Director and will provide direct assistance on key projects as listed above.  S/he is part of the Water Footprint Network Team which works together to deliver all activities of Water Footprint Network.  S/he is responsive to the Water Footprint Network Partners. 

Profile

For this exciting position, we are looking for an energetic, amiable person, with high professional standards who can make quick progress on diverse projects with limited supervision.  S/he can inspire others to take actions in alignment with Water Footprint Network’s mission.  Ideally, s/he will be able to work well with both the public and private sector due to a deep commitment to improving their engagement in the transformation to sustainable, efficient and equitable water use.  By joining the Water Footprint Network Team, the candidate will be a leader in the advancement and dissemination of the water footprint concept and Water Footprint Assessment and will need to bring critical thinking, excellent people skills and enthusiasm to the position.

Qualifications:

• Degree in communications, marketing or related field and/or 3 – 5 years of progressive experience demonstrating delivery of high-quality communications, knowledge-exchange and networking services, including the production of newsletters, websites, events and materials
• Excellent communication skills in English – writing, speaking and listening, concise and conversational writer; other languages a plus
• Articulate, creative, passionate, flexible and tenacious
• Familiarity with content management systems, image software (video and still), online communications and main social media tools (Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, youtube, etc)
• Knowledge of water resources and sustainability issues preferred
• Excellent time and project management skills, ability to manage competing demands with grace and to work well under pressure
• Experience in developing and working with networks and partnerships and knowledge exchange projects
• Experience working in an international context and ability to work well with people from different cultures and backgrounds
• Ability to work as part of a close-knit team and to carry projects forward independently
• Proven commitment to the Water Footprint Network’s mission
• Prior permission to work in EU strongly preferred

Offer

The position is offered initially for one year, with possible extension. Salary is dependent on the experience and qualifications of the candidate. The salary is based on a work week of 40 hours (1 Full Time Equivalent). Preferred starting date of the job is 1 March 2013. The job will be located at the University of Twente in Enschede, The Netherlands.

Information and applications

For more information about this job offer please email info@waterfootprint.org with “Knowledge Exchange and Engagement Officer” in the subject heading. More information about the Water Footprint Network is available at www.waterfootprint.org.

Your written application, provided with a CV and three references should be submitted no later than January 28, 2013 by e-mail to info@waterfootprint.org  with reference to the vacancy “Knowledge Exchange and Engagement Officer”.