Senior Forestry Officer (Forest and Farm Facility)

Job Posting Organization:
The Forestry Division (NFO) of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is dedicated to promoting sustainable forest management. Established to address the multifaceted roles of forestry in environmental, social, and economic contexts, the division works closely with various stakeholders, including member countries, civil society, and the private sector. The FAO's mission encompasses the development of effective forest policies, the promotion of forestry-related livelihoods, and the conservation and management of forest resources. The organization is committed to enhancing the role of forests in climate change mitigation and adaptation, and it actively collects, analyzes, and disseminates information regarding global forest resources and the production, trade, and consumption of forest products. The Forest and Farm Facility (FFF) team, a partnership involving FAO, IIED, IUCN, and AgriCord, operates under the NFO umbrella, focusing on practical support for climate-resilient landscapes and improved livelihoods across Latin America, Africa, and Asia. The FFF empowers Forest and Farm Producer Organizations (FFPOs) with a strong emphasis on gender equality, indigenous peoples, and youth, aiming to enhance their participation in policy advocacy, improve their technical and business capacities, and develop solutions for climate change adaptation and mitigation.

Job Overview:
The Senior Forestry Officer position is integral to the Forest and Farm Facility (FFF) team within the Forestry Division (NFO) at FAO Headquarters in Rome, Italy. This role involves operational implementation and oversight of Phase II of the FFF, which is crucial for enhancing sustainable production and building resilient livelihoods in climate-resilient landscapes. The officer will be responsible for providing operational guidance and management of ongoing FFF grants, ensuring effective monitoring, tracking, and reporting systems are in place. The position also requires the development and maintenance of a knowledge management platform and facilitating knowledge sharing events. The officer will liaise with partner organizations and manage cooperation with various global and regional programs, ensuring that the FFF's objectives align with FAO's strategic framework. The role demands a high level of leadership and technical expertise to plan, develop, and implement divisional and cross-divisional programs, projects, and services, contributing to the overall mission of FAO.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Forestry Officer will manage the FFF team at FAO headquarters, providing operational guidance and interaction with FFF Facilitators in 15 countries where the FFF operates. Key responsibilities include overseeing the implementation of approximately 200 FAO-signed grants, ensuring technical and financial delivery, and timely closure of Phase II of the FFF. The officer will act as the focal point for FFF implementing partners, coordinating program monitoring, knowledge management, reporting, and communications. Additionally, the officer will support the Manager in overall program management and related tasks, represent the organization at international meetings, and engage in resource mobilization activities. The role requires conducting research and analysis to support the development of technical standards and providing policy advice to member nations. The officer will also lead capacity development and knowledge sharing activities, ensuring the quality and effectiveness of these initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in forestry, agriculture, natural resources management, political and social science, or economics. A minimum of ten years of relevant experience in sustainable forestry or natural resources production is required, particularly in developing countries. Proficiency in English (level C) and intermediate knowledge of another official FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) is mandatory. Candidates should demonstrate results-focused competencies, including leadership, communication, and strategic thinking, as well as technical skills in managing programs, budgets, and contracts efficiently.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree, specifically a Master’s degree or its equivalent, in fields related to forestry, agriculture, natural resources management, political and social science, or economics. This advanced education is essential for understanding the complex issues surrounding sustainable forestry and natural resource management.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of ten years of relevant experience in sustainable forestry or natural resources production, with a focus on building sustainable and resilient livelihoods. Experience in developing countries is particularly valuable, as it provides insight into the unique challenges faced in these regions. Additionally, candidates should have experience working with forest and farm producer organizations, small-scale producers, and local community enterprises, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the sector.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with a requirement for level C proficiency. Additionally, candidates must have intermediate knowledge (level B) of another official FAO language, which could include Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish. This multilingual capability is essential for effective communication and collaboration in an international context.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Rome, Italy, at FAO Headquarters. While the job ad does not specify a deadline for applications, it is important for candidates to apply as soon as possible to ensure consideration. The role is full-time and involves significant interaction with international stakeholders, requiring a high level of expertise and commitment to the FAO's mission. The position may involve travel to various countries where the FFF operates, providing opportunities for international engagement and collaboration.