Assistant FAO Representative (Programme)

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is an agency that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has a mission to help eliminate hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition. The organization works in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 12,000 employees. FAO's strategic framework is aligned with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, focusing on transforming agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. The organization emphasizes environmental sustainability as a core component of its operations, aiming to assist governments in developing policies and programs that promote security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and sustainable resource management.

Job Overview:
The Assistant FAO Representative (Programme) plays a crucial role in the FAO Representation in Baghdad, Iraq. This position involves providing technical and operational support for the development and management of programs and projects aimed at enhancing food security and agricultural sustainability in the region. The Assistant Representative will engage in policy dialogue with government authorities and various stakeholders, representing FAO at interagency meetings. The role requires a deep understanding of local conditions, culture, and institutions to effectively coordinate and manage program activities. The Assistant Representative will also be responsible for producing technical and policy studies, developing country-level frameworks, and ensuring that all operational activities align with the established work plans and project documents.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Assistant FAO Representative (Programme) will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including:

• Participating in policy dialogue and advising government authorities and institutions on FAO's activities.
• Promoting FAO's image through advocacy and communication tools, ensuring adherence to regulatory frameworks.
• Coordinating the maintenance of country data on food, crops, livestock, forestry, and fisheries, and monitoring changes in national policies.
• Leading the production of technical, economic, and policy studies, and developing frameworks such as the Country Programming Framework (CPF).
• Identifying and formulating program and project proposals, monitoring implementation, and making recommendations for improvements.
• Briefing, training, and supervising lower-grade program staff, ensuring adherence to procedures and accuracy of work.
• Performing other duties as required to support the FAO's mission in Iraq.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must meet the following minimum requirements:

• Be a national of the country of assignment (Iraq).
• Hold an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as agriculture, agricultural economics, forestry, fisheries, natural resources, rural development, business administration, or international relations.
• Have at least seven years of relevant experience in public or private sectors related to programming, planning, and technical cooperation in food and agriculture, or project implementation in areas relevant to FAO's activities.
• Possess a working knowledge (proficiency - level C) of English and Arabic.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree, specifically a Master's degree or equivalent, in fields related to agriculture, agricultural economics, forestry, fisheries, natural resources, rural development, business administration, or international relations. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of food security and agricultural sustainability.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of seven years of relevant experience in either the public or private sectors. This experience should be related to programming, planning, and technical cooperation in food and agriculture, or project implementation in areas pertinent to FAO's activities. The candidate's experience should demonstrate a strong understanding of program and project management, as well as policy analysis related to nutrition" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food and nutrition security.

Languages:
Proficiency in both English and Arabic is mandatory for this position, with a requirement for candidates to demonstrate a working knowledge (proficiency - level C) in both languages. This bilingual capability is crucial for effective communication and collaboration with local stakeholders and international partners.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Baghdad, Iraq, and is a full-time role. Candidates should be prepared to engage in a dynamic work environment that involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including government authorities and international organizations. The FAO offers a competitive compensation package, including benefits that support the well-being of its employees. The organization is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages applications from qualified individuals regardless of their background.