Chief of Livestock Innovation, Climate and Post Harvesting Solutions Branch

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is an agency that leads international efforts to defeat hunger and improve nutrition and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security. Established in 1945, FAO has a mission to help eliminate hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition, making it a vital player in the global fight against poverty. With over 194 member countries, FAO operates in more than 130 countries worldwide, employing thousands of staff who work collaboratively to achieve sustainable agricultural development and improve the livelihoods of rural populations. The organization is committed to the principles of environmental sustainability, social equity, and economic viability, aligning its work with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Job Overview:
The Chief of the Livestock Innovation, Climate and Post Harvesting Solutions Branch (NSAL) at FAO plays a pivotal role in leading the organization's initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable development and transformative change within the global livestock sector. This position requires a strategic thinker who can provide vision and direction while integrating scientific and technical expertise with policy advice. The Chief will be responsible for overseeing the development of tools, policies, and guidelines that promote sustainable livestock practices, focusing on environmental and socio-economic sustainability. The role involves supporting FAO member countries in their transition towards sustainable livestock systems, ensuring that the organization remains a global leader in animal health and production. The Chief will also manage resources effectively, ensuring coherence and technical quality in the implementation of livestock policies and practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Chief of NSAL will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Providing leadership and strategic direction for the sustainable development of the livestock sector.
• Supporting FAO members in developing sustainable livestock transformation pathways through evidence-based solutions.
• Positioning FAO as a leader in animal health and production, aligning with international public goods and the FAO Strategic Framework.
• Leading the NSAL team in preparing livestock sector analyses, tools, and guidelines.
• Planning and managing resources for livestock policy preparation and innovation projects.
• Ensuring effective collaboration with other groups within FAO and decentralized offices.
• Supporting resource mobilization efforts aligned with FAO's strategic vision.
• Guiding and evaluating the work of NSAL staff.
• Providing technical advice and support to FAO members and other stakeholders. 1
• Representing FAO in external meetings and managing day-to-day operations in the absence of the Director.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s Degree or equivalent) in fields such as animal science, agricultural economics, or veterinary medicine, with additional postgraduate qualifications in livestock system analysis or related areas. A minimum of twelve years of relevant experience at progressively responsible levels in livestock system analysis, development policy, and planning is required. Candidates should demonstrate professional competence and management skills, with a strong understanding of international livestock sector development issues. Familiarity with multilateral processes and FAO/UN reforms is essential, along with proven leadership and managerial abilities. Excellent communication and negotiation skills are also necessary, as well as experience in advocacy and resource mobilization.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree, specifically a Master’s Degree or equivalent, in animal science, agricultural economics, veterinary medicine, or related fields. Candidates should also have postgraduate qualifications in livestock system analysis, livestock development policy, or agricultural economics, which are crucial for understanding the complexities of the livestock sector and its sustainable development.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least twelve years of progressively responsible experience in livestock system analysis, livestock development policy, and planning. This experience should include extensive involvement in intergovernmental processes and the identification, formulation, and implementation of projects and programs, particularly in developing or transition countries. Experience in national and international development and research organizations is highly valued, as is a demonstrated ability to manage complex issues with diplomacy and confidentiality.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English at a proficient level (level C) is mandatory, along with a limited knowledge of another official FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) at an intermediate level (level B). This bilingual capability is essential for effective communication within the organization and with member countries.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Rome, Italy, at FAO headquarters. The role is full-time and involves significant leadership responsibilities, including managing a diverse team and representing the organization in various international forums. The Chief of NSAL will be expected to engage in resource mobilization efforts and coordinate project proposals for funding, making it a critical role in advancing FAO's mission in the livestock sector.