Senior Food System Advisor

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions for human development. Established in 1980, FHI 360 operates in more than 60 countries and has a diverse workforce of over 4,000 employees. The organization focuses on various sectors including health, education, nutrition, and economic development, aiming to create sustainable change through evidence-based programs and partnerships.

Job Overview:
The Senior Food System Advisor will be seconded to the Federal Ministry of Agriculture (FMOA) in Ethiopia, working under the guidance of the Food and Nutrition Office (FNO). This role is crucial in supporting the Ethiopian government's food system transformation agenda, which is closely linked to improving nutrition and promoting healthier diets across the country. The advisor will collaborate with various stakeholders, including the Federal Ministry of Health and other partners, to provide technical support and coaching to enhance the planning, budgeting, and implementation of food systems initiatives. The advisor will also identify low-performing regions and offer on-the-job technical assistance to strengthen their food systems, ensuring that the initiatives align with the national food systems roadmap and contribute to the overall goals of the Food and Nutrition Strategy.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide technical assistance for food systems roadmap and programs, ensuring alignment with Ethiopia's food systems transformation plans.
• Support the FMOA in developing context-specific food systems action plans and monitor their implementation.
• Build the capacity of staff within the Ministry to budget for nutrition-sensitive agriculture activities.
• Assist in the implementation of national initiatives aimed at food systems transformation.
• Strengthen the monitoring and evaluation framework for food system programs at both federal and regional levels.
• Facilitate the operationalization of the Agricultural Management Information System (AGMIS-2) within the Ministry.
• Engage in capacity building and institutional development to enhance the effectiveness of food system programs.
• Collaborate with regional food system advisors to ensure cohesive support across various administrative levels.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's Degree or higher in relevant fields such as Food Science, Agricultural Sciences, or Rural Development. A minimum of 10 years of relevant technical or managerial experience in food, agriculture, or livelihoods is required. Experience working with government entities, particularly the Ministry of Agriculture, is highly desirable. A strong understanding of the political, economic, and social factors affecting agriculture and nutrition in Ethiopia is essential, along with experience in program planning and management.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Master's Degree or above in disciplines related to food science, agricultural sciences, food hygiene and technology, or rural development. Candidates should have a solid academic foundation that supports their understanding of food systems and nutrition-sensitive agriculture.

Experience:
At least 10 years of relevant experience is necessary, with a focus on technical and managerial roles in food, agriculture, or livelihoods. Candidates should have experience working with government agencies, particularly in the context of Ethiopia's National Nutrition Program and food systems initiatives. Proven experience in program planning, management, and monitoring is also required, along with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with strong writing and communication skills. Proficiency in additional local languages would be advantageous but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
The position is for a duration of one year, with the possibility of annual renewal. The role is full-time and involves extensive travel to various regions within Ethiopia. FHI 360 is committed to equal opportunity employment and safeguarding practices, ensuring a safe and inclusive work environment for all employees.