Investment Operations 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 achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. The organization operates in over 120 countries and employs thousands of staff members who work collaboratively with governments, international organizations, and civil society to improve agricultural productivity and food systems. FAO's strategic framework is aligned with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, focusing on transforming agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. The FAO Investment Centre (CFI) plays a crucial role in providing investment and finance solutions to support these goals, partnering with various stakeholders to enhance agrifood investment quality and quantity.

Job Overview:
The Investment Operations Specialist will be responsible for providing technical advice and expertise to member countries in collaboration with international financial institutions (IFIs). This role involves designing investment operations that mobilize resources for food security, nutrition, agriculture, rural development, natural resource management, and climate change adaptation or mitigation. The specialist will work closely with country stakeholders and partners to ensure that investment operations are effectively implemented and evaluated in line with the FAO Strategic Framework. The position requires a strong understanding of the agricultural sector and the ability to lead multidisciplinary teams in the identification, assessment, and preparation of investment operations. The specialist will also be involved in capacity development initiatives and will play a key role in promoting international cooperation and collaboration to create new investment opportunities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Investment Operations Specialist will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including leading or participating in multidisciplinary teams to assist governments in identifying, assessing, and preparing investment operations in various fields such as food security, nutrition, and climate change. The specialist will also provide technical expertise in the preparation of studies and strategies related to agriculture and rural development. Additionally, the role involves advising on the development of inclusive and sustainable food systems, formulating monitoring and evaluation strategies, and preparing reports that meet the requirements of governments and financing partners. The specialist will promote international cooperation and advocate for best practices in investment operations, while also performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in fields such as economics, agricultural economics, agricultural sciences, environmental sciences, agribusiness management, or related areas. A minimum of one year of professional experience in conducting analytical studies in the agricultural or rural sector, as well as experience in planning and supervising agricultural investment operations, is required. Candidates should also demonstrate a working knowledge of English, French, or Spanish, with additional language skills in Arabic, Chinese, or Russian being an asset.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in relevant fields such as economics, agricultural sciences, environmental sciences, or social sciences. Specific academic or technical qualifications within the required field of expertise are also considered appropriate for the role. Candidates should have a strong foundation in agricultural and rural development principles, as well as an understanding of investment operations and policy advice.

Experience:
The position requires at least one year of professional experience in the agricultural or rural sector, specifically in conducting analytical studies, planning, and supervising investment operations. Experience in developing countries or countries in transition is particularly valuable. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in multidisciplinary teams and engaging with government officials and development partners.

Languages:
A working knowledge (level C) of English, French, or Spanish is mandatory for this position. Candidates with limited knowledge of one of the other two languages or proficiency in Arabic, Chinese, or Russian will be considered advantageous. Strong communication skills in these languages are essential for effective collaboration and reporting.

Additional Notes:
The position may offer a home-based contract with required travel for field missions. The FAO emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its workforce and encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of gender, nationality, or background. The organization provides competitive compensation and benefits, including opportunities for professional development and capacity building.