Digital Specialist (AgriTech Observatory)

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, which was established in 194

• FAO'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. The organization operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of approximately 12,000 employees. The Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia (REU) specifically focuses on addressing regional priorities for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, agriculture, and rural development, ensuring a multidisciplinary approach to its programs.

Job Overview:
The Digital Specialist (AgriTech Observatory) will play a crucial role in the implementation of FAO’s Strategic Framework, particularly in the area of Digital Agriculture. This position is designed to support the digital transformation of agriculture across Europe and Central Asia by contributing to the management and scale-up of the AgriTech Observatory. The incumbent will be responsible for conducting research and analysis on digital solutions, policies, and projects, ensuring that the Observatory remains a leading knowledge platform for monitoring digital agriculture developments in the region. The role requires a proactive approach to promoting the Observatory's outputs and engaging with stakeholders to enhance visibility and uptake of its resources. The position also involves overseeing the daily operations of the platform and ensuring that it meets its targets effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Digital Specialist include conducting thorough research and analysis on digital solutions and regional initiatives to be included in the AgriTech Observatory. The incumbent will coordinate the collection, validation, and curation of the Observatory database, ensuring its accuracy and regular updates. They will develop high-quality knowledge products and analytical outputs, such as technical articles and infographics, based on the data collected. Promoting the Observatory through various digital channels and outreach activities is essential to expand its visibility. The specialist will act as the business owner of the Observatory platform, collaborating with the Technical Product Manager to enhance its functionalities. They will also review external submissions, maintain data integrity, and oversee the platform’s daily operations. Liaising with stakeholders and representing the Observatory at various events is crucial for promoting its insights. Additionally, the specialist will facilitate resource mobilization by writing project proposals and cultivating relationships with donors and academic institutions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Agricultural Science, Economics, Environmental Science, Data Science, or a related field from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO. Those with a bachelor's degree must have two additional years of relevant professional experience. A minimum of three years of relevant experience in information management, digital agriculture, agriculture projects, research, or data analysis is required. Proficiency in English at a working knowledge level (Level C) is mandatory. Candidates should also demonstrate core competencies such as results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as Agricultural Science, Economics, Environmental Science, or Data Science. For candidates with a bachelor's degree, an additional two years of relevant professional experience is necessary. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of digital agriculture and its implications for food security and rural development.

Experience:
The position requires at least three years of relevant experience in fields such as information management, digital agriculture, agriculture projects, research, or data analysis. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in environments that require analytical skills and the ability to manage and interpret data effectively. Experience with databases and data visualization tools is desirable, as is familiarity with emerging technologies in digital agriculture.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English (Proficient, Level C) is mandatory for this position. Additionally, proficiency in Russian is considered a very strong asset, which would enhance the candidate's ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
This position offers a consultancy contract for an initial trial period of six months, with the possibility of extension to eleven months based on satisfactory performance. A mandatory break from duty of at least 30 consecutive days is required within any twelve-month period, after which the contract may be renewed depending on performance and availability of funds. The preferred duty station is Budapest, Hungary, with a hybrid working arrangement, although home-based candidates in a suitable time zone may also be considered.