Policy Officer (One Health)

Policy Officer (One Health)

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)

April 13, 2026April 24, 2026RomeItaly
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The Animal Production and Health Division (NSA) of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is dedicated to promoting and facilitating the sustainable development of the livestock sector. Established to integrate scientific and technical expertise with policy advice, the division plays a crucial role in hosting technical networks focused on animal health, genetics, feed, and animal husbandry. It provides analysis, policy dialogue, and technical assistance, particularly in emergency responses related to animal health. The division collaborates with various intergovernmental bodies to ensure effective policy implementation and support for the livestock sector.

Job Overview:
The Policy Officer (One Health) position is situated within the One Health and Disease Control Branch (NSAH-CJW) of the Animal Production and Health Division (NSA) at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy. This role is pivotal in providing analytical and operational support for results-based policy assistance and governance work. The officer will be responsible for collecting and analyzing relevant technical, social, economic, environmental, institutional, and technology-related information to support the delivery of program projects, products, and services related to policy and governance. The position requires participation in multi-disciplinary project teams and missions, contributing to the development of improved work methods, tools, and systems, and collaborating in the development of training tools and materials. The officer will also play a key role in organizing and conducting meetings, consultations, and conferences, ensuring effective communication and dissemination of information among partners.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Policy Officer (One Health) include:
  • Collecting and analyzing relevant information, data, and statistics to support program projects and services related to policy and governance.
  • Providing technical input for plans and reports, and editing/revising technical/scientific documents.
  • Participating in the development of improved work methods, tools, and systems, and updating databases and web pages.
  • Collaborating in the development of training tools and materials and organizing workshops and seminars.
  • Supporting the development of policy documents and tools to strengthen One Health governance at various levels.
  • Providing technical and analytical support in the development of national One Health governance structures and policies.
  • Contributing to the preparation and dissemination of knowledge products and policy guidance related to One Health governance.
  • Assisting in planning and organizing multi-stakeholder meetings and technical consultations.
  • Supporting coordination on One Health across FAO and with Quadripartite partners. 1
  • Contributing to the development and advocacy of the One Health in Agrifood Systems Framework. 1
  • Supporting the implementation of the Quadripartite One Health Joint Plan of Action. 1
  • Establishing and maintaining partnerships with relevant international organizations. 1
  • Performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in political sciences, social sciences, sociology, agronomy, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, or subjects relevant to One Health and policies. Additionally, a minimum of three years of relevant experience in policy analysis, governance, and policy assistance work related to One Health in Agrifood systems is required. Candidates should demonstrate a strong results focus, teamwork capabilities, effective communication skills, and the ability to build effective relationships. Knowledge sharing and continuous improvement are also essential competencies for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in fields such as political sciences, social sciences, sociology, agronomy, food security, or other relevant subjects that align with the work of One Health and policies. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of policy development and governance in the context of health systems.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of three years of relevant experience in policy analysis, governance, and policy assistance work, particularly in relation to One Health in Agrifood systems. Experience in multi-stakeholder environments, including coordination among international organizations, governments, and research institutions, is highly valued. The role requires familiarity with organizing multilateral and multi-stakeholder meetings and workshops, as well as experience working with multidisciplinary teams.

Languages:
A working knowledge (proficiency - level C) of English is mandatory, along with intermediate knowledge (intermediate proficiency - level B) of another official FAO language, which could be Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish. Proficiency in additional languages may enhance a candidate's suitability for the position, particularly in a diverse international environment.

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 promptly. The role is likely to be full-time, and candidates may be assessed on their ability to work in an international context, collaborating with various stakeholders. Compensation and benefits details are not provided in the job ad, but candidates can expect a competitive package typical of international organizations.
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