Innovation Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has a mission to help eliminate hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition. The organization works in over 130 countries and has a workforce of approximately 12,000 employees. FAO aims to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development by promoting sustainable agricultural practices and ensuring security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all. The Office of Innovation (OIN) within FAO plays a crucial role in driving innovation across the organization, ensuring that innovative approaches are integrated into FAO's programs and facilitating collaboration among various units.

Job Overview:
The Innovation Specialist position is designed to provide technical advice and support for the design, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of communication and outreach strategies related to the Farmer Field School (FFS) programs. The role involves working closely with the Technical Unit Leader of the FFS unit in the Office of Innovation, ensuring that all communication materials adhere to FAO's corporate standards. The specialist will be responsible for generating content that promotes awareness and visibility of FAO's initiatives, particularly those related to agricultural development and community engagement. This position requires a proactive approach to storytelling, showcasing the impact of FAO's projects, and facilitating knowledge dissemination through various channels, including social media and publications.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Innovation Specialist will undertake a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: supporting the preparation and dissemination of communication materials, developing impactful stories based on project results, coordinating the production of knowledge products, designing graphic content and infographics, maintaining and updating relevant websites, promoting key publications and events, and facilitating the organization of the 2026 Innovation Award for Farmer Field Schools. The specialist will also be responsible for ensuring compliance with FAO's communication standards and guidelines, liaising with the Office of Communications to align messaging and review processes. Additionally, the role involves supporting the implementation of the SHARP resilience assessment tool and contributing to the community of practice for FFS.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in agricultural development, economic policy, or communication for development from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO. A minimum of one year of relevant experience in communication, community engagement, training, and outreach is required. Proficiency in English or French at a working knowledge level (level C) is mandatory, and knowledge of an additional FAO language is considered a strong asset. Candidates should demonstrate core competencies such as results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in fields related to agricultural development, economic policy, or communication for development. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of agricultural systems and the communication strategies necessary for effective outreach and engagement with communities.

Experience:
The position requires at least one year of relevant experience in communication, community engagement, training, and outreach. Experience working in diverse locations and with international organizations, such as the United Nations or non-governmental organizations, is advantageous. Candidates should have a proven ability to produce and edit visual content, facilitate online events, and demonstrate strong analytical and conceptual skills.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English or French is mandatory for this position. Additionally, proficiency in another FAO language is considered a strong asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in a multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
This position is likely to be full-time and may involve collaboration with various FAO units and external partners. The role may require flexibility in working hours to accommodate international collaboration and events. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with FAO's policies and standards, and candidates may be assessed based on their ability to work effectively in a team and contribute positively to the organization's goals.