Technical and Financial Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The FAO Subregional Office for Central Asia (SEC) is dedicated to leading efforts to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security across the Central Asian region. Established to address critical issues such as hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition, the organization also focuses on poverty eradication and sustainable management of natural resources. The FAO aims to ensure that these resources are utilized effectively for the benefit of both current and future generations. The office collaborates closely with various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Environmental Protection in Turkmenistan, to implement projects that enhance climate finance access and compliance with international agreements, such as the Paris Agreement. The FAO has been active in the region since its establishment and continues to advocate for initiatives that promote climate resilience and sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The Technical and Financial Specialist position is crucial for the successful establishment of a Regional Centre for Climate Technology in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan. This role involves conducting in-depth technical and financial analyses to develop a feasibility study and action plan for the Centre. The Specialist will ensure that the project is technically feasible, economically viable, and financially sustainable. The position requires a proactive approach to engage with various stakeholders, assess the Centre's requirements, and provide strategic recommendations for its setup and operation. The Specialist will also be responsible for outlining a detailed action plan with timelines and milestones, ensuring that the Centre can effectively contribute to climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Technical and Financial Specialist include defining and assessing the technical requirements for the Centre, which encompasses infrastructure, technology, and human resources. The Specialist will estimate costs associated with setting up and operating the Centre, identify potential funding sources, and develop financial sustainability models. Conducting a cost-benefit analysis to evaluate the project's economic viability and proposing a comprehensive business plan are also key responsibilities. The Specialist will outline a detailed action plan with specific timelines and milestones, develop a roadmap for implementation, and conduct missions to Ashgabat for surveys or interviews with potential users and beneficiaries. Additionally, the Specialist will provide input on technical and financial aspects of market analysis, assist in identifying risks and developing mitigation strategies, and contribute to the governance framework and financial management policies. Preparing interim reports and presentations on findings will also be part of the role.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must meet specific qualifications to be considered for this position. For consultants, an advanced university degree in Economics, Finance, or a related field from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO is required. Those with a bachelor's degree must have two additional years of relevant professional experience. For Personal Services Agreements (PSAs), a university degree in the same fields is necessary. A minimum of five years of professional experience in technical and financial analysis of projects is essential, along with a working knowledge of English. Familiarity with UN frameworks and climate finance mechanisms is highly desirable, as is experience in the climate technology or environmental sector.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in Economics, Finance, or a related field from a recognized institution. For those applying as consultants, a bachelor's degree is acceptable if accompanied by two additional years of relevant professional experience. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of financial analysis and project feasibility in the context of climate technology and environmental management.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of professional experience in technical and financial analysis of projects. Candidates should have a proven track record of conducting feasibility studies, strategic planning, or institutional assessments, particularly within the climate technology or environmental sector. Experience working with UN frameworks and climate finance mechanisms is also advantageous, as is familiarity with the regional dynamics and stakeholders in Central Asia.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, proficiency in Russian is considered an added advantage, as it may facilitate communication and engagement with local stakeholders and enhance the effectiveness of the Specialist's work in the region.

Additional Notes:
This position is remote, allowing for flexibility in work arrangements. The role is expected to involve collaboration with various stakeholders and may require occasional travel to Ashgabat for on-site assessments and meetings. The contract duration and seniority level have not been specified, but candidates should be prepared for a role that demands a high level of expertise and engagement in climate finance and technology initiatives.