Deputy Director (Data Generation and Capacity Development)

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) was established in 1945 and is headquartered in Rome, Italy. The organization aims to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. FAO operates in over 130 countries and has a mission to support the transformation to more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems. The organization is committed to environmental sustainability and works towards better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life, leaving no one behind. The Statistics Division (ESS) within FAO plays a crucial role in providing timely and reliable data on food and agriculture, facilitating evidence-based policy decisions by Member Nations, and serving as the authoritative source of statistical standards and methods in agricultural and food statistics. ESS aims to enhance the statistical capacity of various institutions to collect, analyze, and disseminate agriculture and food statistics, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) indicators. The Division coordinates FAO’s data and statistical system, ensuring quality assurance of the data produced.

Job Overview:
The director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Deputy Director (Data Generation and Capacity Development) will play a pivotal role in the management of the Statistics Division (ESS) at FAO. Reporting directly to the Director of ESS, the incumbent will assist in the day-to-day management of the Division, providing strategic, managerial, and technical leadership in the Data Generation and Capacity Development Stream. This position is essential for overseeing the production and maintenance of data relevant to food and agriculture statistics and for building statistical capacity in FAO member countries. The Deputy Director will support the Director in strategic visioning, planning, implementation, and monitoring of outputs, ensuring the effective use of financial and human resources in alignment with FAO’s strategic objectives. The role involves providing technical guidance on methodologies and standards for statistical operations, ensuring timely delivery of statistical capacity development to Member countries, and representing the Division in various technical and international meetings. The Deputy Director will also be responsible for maintaining a motivated workforce, promoting communication, mentoring staff, and developing strategic partnerships with relevant stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Deputy Director will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including: supporting the Director in the management of the Data Generation and Capacity Development Stream; providing strategic and technical guidance to data generation teams; overseeing the preparation and publication of datasets within FAOSTAT and other relevant platforms; developing and revising methodologies and standards for statistical operations; ensuring timely delivery of statistical capacity development to Member countries; handling day-to-day matters of the Division in the Director's absence; representing the Division on the Data Coordination Group; preparing flagship publications and technical notes; maintaining a motivated workforce through effective recruitment and performance management; developing strategic partnerships with FAO divisions and external agencies; strengthening relationships with potential donors; and representing the Division in international meetings.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Deputy Director position should possess a strong background in statistics, data management, and capacity development. They should have proven leadership skills and the ability to manage teams effectively. A deep understanding of agricultural and food statistics, as well as experience in working with international organizations, is essential. The ideal candidate should also demonstrate excellent communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to foster partnerships and mobilize resources.

Educational Background:
A master's degree or higher in statistics, economics, agricultural sciences, or a related field is required for this position. Advanced training in statistical methods and data analysis is highly desirable, along with a strong understanding of agricultural and food systems.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 10 years of relevant experience in statistical data management, capacity development, and leadership roles within international organizations or governmental agencies. Experience in managing teams and projects, as well as a track record of successful collaboration with various stakeholders, is crucial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, while knowledge of other UN languages, particularly French or Spanish, is considered an asset. Proficiency in Italian would also be beneficial given the location of the FAO headquarters.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Rome, Italy, and is a full-time role. The FAO offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of gender, nationality, or background.