Economist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations established to lead international efforts to defeat hunger. Its mission is to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all, ensuring that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. FAO operates globally, with a focus on various aspects of food security, agricultural policies, and nutrition. The organization conducts extensive research and provides evidence-based support to national, regional, and global policy processes. FAO has a significant presence in multiple countries, working collaboratively with various partners to address food and agricultural challenges.

Job Overview:
The Economist position is situated within the Food Security and Nutrition and Resilience (FSN-R) Pillar of the Agrifood Economics and Policy Division (ESA) at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy. The role involves conducting research and economic analysis on a wide range of issues related to food security and nutrition. The Economist will support the coordination of the SOFI report, an annual flagship publication of FAO, and will be responsible for providing technical expertise in advanced economic analysis. This includes applying various qualitative and quantitative research methods, such as econometric methods and equilibrium analysis, to frame analyses for a general audience. The position requires collaboration with the SOFI team, other FAO technical units, and partners like IFAD, UNICEF, WFP, and WHO to ensure the quality and alignment of reports with global standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Economist will be tasked with researching and analyzing agricultural, economic, trade, market, social, environmental, and nutrition-related data to provide technical and policy-related information. Responsibilities include producing technical reports, providing analytical services for various studies, and participating in the development of improved analytical tools and methodologies. The Economist will also collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, promote best practices, and engage in capacity development activities. Specific functions include supporting the Senior Economist in planning and managing team activities, contributing to the SOFI report, writing concept notes and draft chapters, and preparing technical briefs. The role also involves drafting working papers, articles, and communication materials based on the SOFI report findings, and supervising consultants and interns as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in economics, agricultural economics, food security and nutrition, or a related field. A minimum of five years of relevant experience in economic and quantitative analysis of food and agricultural issues is required, with a preference for experience focused on food security and nutrition. Proficiency in English (level C) and intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) is mandatory. Candidates should demonstrate competencies in results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree, specifically a Master’s degree or equivalent, in fields such as economics, agricultural economics, food security and nutrition, or related disciplines. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of food systems and economic analysis.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in economic and quantitative analysis, particularly in the context of food and agricultural issues. Candidates should have a strong background in analyzing agricultural policy issues, with a focus on food security and nutrition. Experience in formulating and implementing analytical and policy studies related to global food policy and agricultural development is also essential.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with a requirement for intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language, which could include Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish. This language proficiency is necessary for effective communication and collaboration within the organization and with international partners.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Rome, Italy, and is likely to be a full-time role. The Economist will be involved in high-level discussions and collaborations with various international organizations, contributing to significant publications and reports that influence global food security policies. The role may involve some travel for meetings and conferences, and candidates should be prepared for a dynamic work environment that requires adaptability and collaboration across different teams.