Communications Officer - South Asia
Job Description:
Contract to 30 November 2026, with potential extension
Location: New Delhi, India
A great opportunity to drive a high impact communications strategy across South Asia.
About the role
AVI Pacific People, on behalf of the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), is seeking an experienced Communications Officer to lead and implement ACIAR's external communications activities across the South Asia region.
Working closely with the ACIAR South Asia Office and the Outreach team in Canberra, the Communications Officer will develop high quality communication products, promote ACIAR's research-for-development outcomes, and build strong relationships with regional stakeholders, including local media and the Australian High Commission network.
A key objective of this role is to enhance awareness and understanding of ACIAR's mission, projects and impact across India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka. This includes producing compelling stories, digital content, multimedia products and coordinating a diverse communications program aligned with ACIARs strategic priorities.
About ACIAR
The Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) is an Australian Government agency that funds and supports agricultural research partnerships between Australian scientists and research institutions across the Asia–Pacific and Africa. ACIAR's South Asia Office leads engagement with partners across the region and supports more than 20 research projects aligned with ACIARs 10 Year Strategy 2018–2027. Learn more at: www.aciar.gov.au
Key responsibilities
- Lead the development, implementation and monitoring of the ACIAR South Asia communications strategy.
- Produce high-quality communication content, including key messages, briefs, success stories, articles, photos, videos, social media posts and presentations.
- Engage actively with local and regional media, as required
- Support and coordinate outreach activities, events and stakeholder engagement across South Asia.
- Represent ACIAR professionally at forums, meetings and events, ensuring adherence to brand, messaging and style guidelines.
- Provide communications advice, administrative support and collaboration within the South Asia office and across ACIAR teams.
- Travel to ACIAR project sites to collect and produce communications materials (stories, interviews, photos, video).
About you
You will bring:
- Tertiary qualifications in Journalism, Communications, Public Affairs or a similar discipline.
- Experience in development or science communications.
- Demonstrated ability to produce high quality written, digital and multimedia content.
- Experience leading or coordinating communication strategies and plans.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
- Proficiency in MS Office and relevant design or content tools.
- Excellent written and verbal English; fluency in a local language is an advantage.
- Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities and contribute to a small, high-performing team.
The position is open to Indian nationals and those eligible to work in India. A valid police check will be required.
Find a copy of the full position description here
Application Process
Click on the APPLY NOW Button below, submit a cover letter and a current resume by 9am Monday 9 March, 2026 AEST.
AVI Pacific People is an Equal Opportunity Employer. AVI Pacific People is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace, all applicants will be considered for employment regardless of race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability status.