Project Officer (BBNJ)

Job Posting Organization:
The Fisheries and Aquaculture Division (NFI) is a part of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. The FAO was established in 1945 and has a mission to eliminate hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition, making it a key player in global efforts to improve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and agricultural practices. The organization operates in over 130 countries and employs thousands of staff members dedicated to various aspects of food and agriculture. The NFI specifically focuses on the economic, social, and governance aspects of fisheries and aquaculture, emphasizing human well-being, food security, and poverty reduction. It also plays a crucial role in the management and conservation of living aquatic resources, ensuring sustainable practices in fisheries and aquaculture.

Job Overview:
The Project Officer (BBNJ) will be responsible for overseeing the implementation of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) funded project aimed at supporting the ratification and implementation of the BBNJ Agreement. This role involves project cycle management, risk management, capacity development, and resource mobilization. The Project Officer will coordinate with various partners, including UNEP and UNDP, to ensure the project's objectives are met effectively. The position requires a comprehensive understanding of fisheries and aquaculture policies, as well as the ability to provide technical support and monitor project progress. The Project Officer will also be involved in liaising with stakeholders, tracking financial resources, and preparing reports to ensure transparency and accountability in project execution.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Officer will have a wide range of responsibilities, including providing technical leadership for the development and evaluation of projects, coordinating project activities, and supervising the preparation of various written outputs such as reports and analyses. The officer will participate in consultative meetings, lead field missions, and provide guidance to external consultants and government officials. Specific functions include serving as the main point of contact for project partners, monitoring project resources and progress, preparing work plans and budget reports, and establishing working relationships with relevant agencies. The officer will also represent the project in meetings and conferences, ensuring effective communication and integration of project objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in fields such as law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law, economics, fishery science, marine science, marine ecology, international development, or business administration. Additionally, candidates should have at least seven years of relevant experience in international development project management, including at least one project leadership experience. A strong understanding of project management principles and practices is essential, along with the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in a relevant field such as international law, economics, fishery science, marine science, marine ecology, international development, or business administration. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of fisheries and aquaculture management and the legal frameworks surrounding them.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of seven years of relevant experience in international development project management. This experience should include at least one leadership role in a project, demonstrating the ability to manage teams and coordinate activities effectively. Experience in working with international organizations and multi-lateral agreements is highly desirable, as is familiarity with the challenges and opportunities in the field of fisheries and aquaculture.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English at proficiency level C is mandatory, along with intermediate knowledge (level B) of one of the other FAO official languages, which include Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish. Proficiency in multiple languages is advantageous and can enhance communication with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Rome, Italy, at the FAO headquarters. It is a full-time role that may involve international travel for field missions and meetings. The Project Officer will be expected to work collaboratively with various partners and stakeholders, ensuring the successful implementation of the project. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with FAO's policies and standards, and the role may involve a contract duration that aligns with the project's timeline.