Gender Expert

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that was established in 194

• It is governed by the Conference of Member Nations, which convenes every two years to review the organization's work and approve its Programme of Work and Budget for the upcoming two years. With its headquarters located in Rome, Italy, FAO has a membership of 191 nations, two Associate Members, and one Member Organization, which is the European Union. The organization's mission is to eliminate hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition, make agriculture, forestry, and fisheries more productive and sustainable, reduce rural poverty, and enable inclusive and efficient agricultural and food systems. FAO operates in numerous countries, including Pakistan, where it has implemented over USD 293 million worth of projects, including emergency initiatives, and has carried out regional projects valued at USD 82.41 million that have benefitted the country. FAO's work in Pakistan focuses on bringing technical knowledge to the field, developing agricultural practices, policies, and strategies, and protecting rural livelihoods during crises. The organization also provides a platform for member countries to discuss and build a common understanding of critical issues affecting agriculture and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security.

Job Overview:
The Gender Expert position at FAO Pakistan is crucial for advancing gender equality within the organization's project portfolio. The role involves working under the overall supervision of the FAO Representative and direct supervision of the Assistant FAO Representative (Programme). The Gender Expert will coordinate closely with provincial leads and project managers to ensure the timely and effective delivery of gender-related activities. This includes supporting and promoting pathways to advance gender equality, ensuring alignment of ongoing programs with FAO's Strategic Framework and Country Programming Framework, and developing a comprehensive gender strategy and action plan. The Gender Expert will also enhance the capacity of project staff through regular training on gender mainstreaming and contribute to the development of gender-sensitive training materials and curriculum. The position requires a proactive approach to ensure that gender initiatives are effectively integrated into all aspects of FAO's work in Pakistan, particularly in light of the challenges faced by women in the agricultural sector.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Gender Expert will be responsible for a variety of duties, including:

• Supporting and promoting key pathways to advance gender equality across FAO Pakistan's project portfolio.
• Ensuring that ongoing programs align with FAO's Strategic Framework, the Country Programming Framework (CPF), and priorities on gender equality and women's empowerment.
• Developing and implementing a gender strategy and action plan to guide the design and execution of projects that promote women's empowerment.
• Enhancing the capacity of project staff through regular training sessions on gender mainstreaming.
• Contributing to the development and improvement of gender-sensitive training materials and manuals, including content for Farmer Field Schools (FFS), to ensure they meet the needs of both men and women.
• Coordinating with the reporting officer and communication specialist to prepare periodic progress reports, success stories, and case studies that highlight gender outcomes in FAO Pakistan projects.
• Performing other related duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Gender Expert position should possess a strong understanding of gender issues, particularly in the context of agriculture and rural development. They should have experience in developing and implementing gender strategies and action plans, as well as a proven track record of conducting training on gender mainstreaming. Strong analytical and communication skills are essential, along with the ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and stakeholders. The ideal candidate should also demonstrate a commitment to promoting gender equality and women's empowerment in all aspects of their work.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required for the Gender Expert position, typically including a degree in gender studies, social sciences, development studies, or a related field. Advanced degrees may be preferred, particularly for candidates with extensive experience in gender issues within the agricultural sector.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience in gender mainstreaming, particularly within the context of agricultural development. Candidates should have a minimum of several years of relevant professional experience, ideally in a similar role within an international organization or development agency. Experience working in Pakistan or similar contexts is highly desirable, as is familiarity with FAO's work and priorities.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for the Gender Expert position, as it is the working language of FAO. Knowledge of Urdu or other local languages is considered an asset, as it can facilitate communication and engagement with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This is a national UNV assignment, meaning that the selected candidate will be responsible for arranging their own housing and living essentials. The UN Volunteer will receive a Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA) of PKR 183,920 per month to cover housing, utilities, and normal living expenses. Additionally, life health and permanent disability insurance are included, covering health insurance for up to three dependents. The position also includes provisions for final repatriation (if applicable) and a resettlement allowance for satisfactory service.