Senior Agriculture Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a prominent global partnership of five institutions dedicated to ending extreme poverty and promoting shared prosperity. Established with the mission to provide financial and technical assistance to developing countries, the organization has 189 member countries and operates over 120 offices worldwide. The World Bank Group is recognized as one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, focusing on innovative solutions to address urgent global challenges. The organization emphasizes collaboration with public and private sector partners to invest in groundbreaking projects, leveraging data, research, and technology to foster sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The Senior Agriculture Specialist position at the World Bank involves leading the delivery of the unit's work program in Angola, focusing on impactful projects and strategic advisory tasks. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including the Practice Manager, Country Manager, and the Angola Country Team. The specialist will be responsible for designing, preparing, and supervising operation projects, ensuring high-quality execution throughout the project cycle. This includes providing technical guidance on agricultural food systems, contributing to policy reforms, and engaging with clients and development partners. The position aims to support Angola's transition from a subsistence agricultural model to a more inclusive and competitive food system, addressing challenges such as low agricultural productivity and market integration.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Agriculture Specialist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including: leading the design and supervision of operation projects as Task Team Leader or core team member; providing technical guidance for agricultural food systems; contributing to advisory and analytical activities; engaging in strategic policy dialogue; integrating agriculture interventions into broader programs; representing the Agriculture and Food team at events; serving as a focal point for agriculture in Angola; responding to information requests; and mentoring team members. The role requires a proactive approach to project management and stakeholder engagement, ensuring alignment with the World Bank's objectives in the region.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master's degree in agricultural and resource economics, agribusiness, agriculture, or a closely related discipline. Additionally, at least 8 years of relevant professional experience in agriculture, agribusiness, or food systems is required. Candidates should demonstrate a strong ability to identify problems and develop innovative solutions while maintaining a client-focused approach. Technical and analytical skills are essential, along with the capacity to lead discussions on policy reforms. Effective communication skills in English and Portuguese are mandatory, with the ability to produce high-quality documents and reports. Interpersonal skills, problem-solving abilities, and a high degree of ethics and diplomacy are also crucial for success in this role.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for the Senior Agriculture Specialist position includes a master's degree in agricultural and resource economics, agribusiness, agriculture, or a closely related field. This advanced education is essential for understanding the complexities of agricultural systems and the economic factors influencing security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and rural development.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of relevant professional experience in agriculture, agribusiness, or related fields. This experience should encompass a deep understanding of agricultural value chains, food systems, and the challenges faced by smallholders. Candidates should have a proven track record of leading projects and engaging in policy dialogue at high levels, demonstrating their ability to translate knowledge into practical solutions.

Languages:
Proficiency in English and Portuguese is mandatory for this position, as effective communication is crucial for collaboration with stakeholders and the production of analytical reports. Additionally, knowledge of French is considered a preferred asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage in a multilingual environment and collaborate with diverse teams.

Additional Notes:
The position is a full-time role with a term duration of 4 years. It involves international recruitment, indicating that candidates from various countries are encouraged to apply. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including retirement plans, medical and life insurance, paid leave, and accommodations for individuals with disabilities. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees.