National Disaster Risk Finance and Insurance Expert

Job Posting Organization:
The Green Climate Fund (GCF) is an international fund established to support the efforts of developing countries to respond to the challenge of climate change. The GCF Readiness Project aims to enhance the institutional capacity of Lao PDR to design, implement, and finance low-emission and climate-resilient projects. The project is implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in collaboration with the National Designated Authority (NDA) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment. The GCF focuses on building capacity, developing strategic frameworks, and fostering knowledge sharing to support climate action in various countries, including Lao PDR.

Job Overview:
The National Disaster Risk Finance and Insurance Expert will play a pivotal role in leading the national coordination for the technical design of a drought insurance pilot. This position involves ensuring that the pilot aligns with government priorities and the objectives of the GCF project. The expert will be responsible for the development and finalization of the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the drought insurance policy, facilitating consultations with government agencies and communities, and supporting the implementation of activities related to drought risk management. The role requires a strong understanding of disaster risk financing and insurance mechanisms, as well as the ability to integrate lessons learned into broader assessments for scaling up drought insurance solutions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the National Disaster Risk Finance and Insurance Expert include coordinating with various ministries to support the pilot of a parametric drought insurance policy, leading the finalization of the SOP, facilitating consultations for pre-approval of the SOP, supporting the organization of community consultations, assisting in drought monitoring and verification processes, setting up systems for timely funds transfer, and documenting lessons learned for knowledge sharing. The expert will also ensure that gender and social inclusion are integrated throughout all processes and will perform other duties as required by the project.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in economics, business administration, development studies, or a related field. They should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience, particularly in working with the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare (MOLSW), Ministry of Finance (MOF), and/or Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE) in Lao PDR. Experience in disaster risk reduction and social protection activities in Lao PDR is essential, and prior engagement with international or regional disaster risk financing initiatives is considered an asset.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced degree in a relevant field such as economics, business administration, or development studies. Candidates must have their qualifications recognized by accredited institutions listed in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience, particularly in the context of disaster risk financing and insurance, as well as experience working with government ministries in Lao PDR. Candidates should have a strong background in disaster risk reduction and social protection initiatives.

Languages:
Fluency in both written and spoken English and Lao is mandatory for this position. Strong communication skills are essential for effective coordination and facilitation of consultations and training activities.

Additional Notes:
The FAO does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates must be medically fit for appointment and meet any residency or visa requirements. The position may involve full-time engagement, and the successful candidate will be expected to work closely with various stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation of the drought insurance pilot.