National Specialist on Climate-related Sectoral Studies and Policy Review

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is an international organization established by the United Nations General Assembly with the mission to lead global efforts to eradicate hunger and poverty. FAO was founded in 1945 and has since grown to include 194 member countries, two associate members, and one member organization, the European Union. The organization operates in over 130 countries worldwide, focusing on improving agricultural productivity, ensuring security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, and promoting sustainable management of natural resources. FAO's work is guided by the principles of inclusivity, sustainability, and resilience, aiming to create a world free from hunger and malnutrition.

Job Overview:
The National Specialist on Climate-related Sectoral Studies and Policy Review will play a crucial role in supporting the FAO's initiatives in The Gambia, particularly under the Climate Resilient Fishery Initiative for Livelihood Improvement in the Gambia (PROREFISH Gambia). This position is designed to enhance the resilience of Gambian fisherfolk to climate change by restoring mangrove ecosystems, developing climate-resilient fisheries infrastructure, and promoting sustainable aquaculture practices. The National Specialist will work closely with an International Consultant to conduct comprehensive climate-related sectoral studies and assist in the review and revision of national policies and strategies aimed at improving climate resilience in the fisheries sector. The role requires a strong understanding of climate change impacts on natural resources and the ability to coordinate effectively with various stakeholders, including government institutions and local communities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Specialist will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Supporting the International Consultant in conducting climate-related sectoral studies across fisheries, water resources, forestry, and climate change sectors in The Gambia.
• Collaborating with the International Consultant to collect, compile, and analyze relevant national data, reports, legislation, policies, strategies, standards, and institutional documents necessary for the consultancy.
• Conducting a desk review of existing sectoral policies, strategies, standards, and regulations to identify gaps and opportunities for improvement.
• Liaising with key government institutions such as the Ministry of Fisheries, Water Resources and National Assembly Matters (MoFWRNAM) and the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources (MoECCNR) to facilitate information sharing and consultations.
• Coordinating meetings, interviews, and technical discussions between the International Consultant and national stakeholders, ensuring accurate documentation of these engagements.
• Supporting the organization and facilitation of stakeholder consultations, focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and validation workshops for draft studies and policy revisions.
• Performing any other related tasks as assigned by FAO or the International Consultant to ensure the successful completion of the consultancy.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s level) in a relevant field such as Climate Change, Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, Fisheries Management, Environmental Policy, or Development Studies. Additionally, a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in areas such as climate change adaptation, environmental management, fisheries development, or policy development is required. Candidates should also demonstrate proven experience in supporting the development or revision of national policies and strategies, as well as strong knowledge of climate risk assessment and vulnerability analysis.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (master’s level) in disciplines related to climate change, environmental science, natural resource management, fisheries management, or environmental policy. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of climate-related issues and developing effective strategies to address them.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in relevant fields such as climate change adaptation, environmental management, fisheries development, or policy development. Candidates should have a demonstrated track record of conducting sectoral studies, institutional assessments, and policy reviews, as well as experience working with international organizations, government institutions, or NGOs on similar assignments.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory, while limited knowledge of French is also required. Additionally, knowledge of a local language such as Wolof, Mandinka, or Fula will be considered an added advantage, enhancing communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
The FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or processing. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. It is important to note that FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from accredited institutions recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED). The appointment will be subject to certification of medical fitness, accreditation, residency or visa requirements, and security clearances. This position may involve a contract of unspecified duration, and candidates should be prepared to work in a full-time capacity.