Food Systems Regional Specialist for Europe and Central Asia

Job Posting Organization:
The UN Food Systems Summit (UNFSS) was established during the 2021 UN General Assembly with the mission to transform global food systems to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 203

• The UNFSS emphasizes the importance of transformative action in food systems as essential for achieving the SDGs. The UN Secretary-General has committed the UN system to establish a UN Food Systems Coordination Hub, hosted by the FAO in Rome, to support countries in implementing food system transformation pathways. The Hub plays a crucial role in coordinating efforts across the UN system and leveraging expertise from various stakeholders to support countries in achieving sustainable and resilient food systems. The FAO Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia (REU) is actively involved in supporting countries in this transformation, conducting advocacy, and facilitating knowledge sharing activities.

Job Overview:
The Food Systems Regional Specialist for Europe and Central Asia will provide state-of-the-art advisory services and technical support to various workstreams of the Hub, focusing on food systems transformation challenges and opportunities in the region. The role involves supporting the effective implementation of the Hub's mandate and workplan, as well as the FAO REU's program of work on food systems transformation. The incumbent will engage with regional partners, contribute to policy discussions, and facilitate knowledge management and capacity building initiatives. This position is pivotal in ensuring that regional dimensions are integrated into global policy discussions and that countries receive the necessary support to address their specific food systems challenges.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Food Systems Regional Specialist include providing policy and technical input to inform priority activities of the Hub and Regional Office, ensuring follow-up on technical support requests, producing comprehensive written outputs on regional policy issues, contributing to global policy discussions, and facilitating policy alignment across various sectors. The specialist will also identify strategic regional partners, maintain strong working relationships with key stakeholders, support the FAOREU Secretariat of the IBC-SFS, and facilitate knowledge exchange among countries. Additionally, the specialist will serve as the regional focal point for national convenors, develop strategies to enhance their engagement, support the review process of Food System Pathways, and organize regional meetings and workshops to promote collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in sustainable development, environment, economics, law, social studies, or a related field. A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience providing advisory services in sustainable development policy, partnerships, or governance is required. Candidates should also have a working knowledge of English and familiarity with the work of the UN FS Coordination Hub or other multilateral organizations. Knowledge of global agendas such as the 2030 Agenda, the Paris Agreement, and Agenda 2063 is essential, along with expertise in food systems and sustainable development in the Europe and Central Asia region.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in sustainable development, environment, economics, law, social studies, or a related area is required. The degree must be from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO, ensuring that the educational background aligns with the needs of the position and the objectives of the UN Food Systems Coordination Hub.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in providing advisory services related to sustainable development policy, partnerships, or governance. This experience should demonstrate the ability to engage with various stakeholders, contribute to policy discussions, and support the implementation of food systems transformation initiatives.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, proficiency in Russian will be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate and collaborate with stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
The position is likely to be full-time and may involve international collaboration, given the nature of the work with the UN and regional partners. Candidates should be prepared for a dynamic work environment that requires effective collaboration among UN partners and member countries. Specific details regarding contract duration, compensation, and benefits may be provided during the recruitment process.