Technical Support for GIAHS Secretariat

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of Climate Change, Biodiversity and Environment (OCB) is a vital part of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) that focuses on addressing the pressing issues of climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation. Established to provide a cross-organizational coordination role, OCB serves as the focal point for major multilateral environmental agreements, including the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). The office plays a crucial role in assisting FAO member countries in tackling the interconnected challenges of security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, climate change, and environmental sustainability. OCB also facilitates access to climate and environmental financing through initiatives like the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Green Climate Fund (GCF). The GIAHS Programme, which is hosted by OCB, aims to promote and protect globally significant agricultural heritage systems, ensuring that traditional agricultural practices are preserved and recognized for their contributions to biodiversity and sustainable development. The GIAHS Secretariat, located at FAO Headquarters in Rome, is responsible for guiding member countries in developing GIAHS proposals and fostering partnerships necessary for the program's growth and expansion.

Job Overview:
The position is situated within the GIAHS Secretariat, where the incumbent will support the implementation of the work plan, which includes activities related to the Scientific Advisory Committee and the expansion of the GIAHS Programme into new areas. The role requires a strong focus on technical strengthening, particularly in monitoring agronomic and environmental matters. The incumbent will be expected to provide comprehensive technical support for organizing meetings, liaising with countries, and ensuring compliance with GIAHS selection criteria for new proposals. This position is critical in facilitating the development and submission of GIAHS proposals and action plans, as well as in producing essential guidance materials and documentation that will aid in the effective communication of GIAHS objectives and initiatives. The role also involves advocating for increased funding and resource mobilization to support the GIAHS Programme, thereby enhancing its impact and reach.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including: providing technical support for the organization of GIAHS Scientific Advisory Group meetings and follow-up activities with countries; screening new GIAHS proposals to ensure they meet selection criteria; offering guidance to countries and FAO offices on proposal development; producing guidance materials, briefs, and presentations; supporting the implementation and monitoring of GIAHS projects; assisting countries in resource mobilization for GIAHS proposals; strengthening collaboration with UN agencies and international organizations; advocating for funding to support GIAHS; producing concept notes and project proposals; contributing to the development of resource mobilization strategies; organizing GIAHS Certificate Award Ceremonies; facilitating workshops and training sessions; providing guidance to junior consultants and interns; representing FAO in meetings and conferences; and performing other duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in relevant fields such as agronomy, forestry, fisheries, agricultural economics, natural resource management, ecology, biodiversity, climate change, environment, anthropology, landscape management, or sustainable rural development. Those with a bachelor's degree must have two additional years of relevant professional experience. Additionally, candidates should have one year of relevant experience for Category C, five years for Category B, or ten years for Category A, specifically in developing initiatives related to sustainable agriculture, natural resources, or environmental management. A working knowledge of English at level C is also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in fields pertinent to the role, such as agronomy, forestry, fisheries, agricultural economics, natural resource management, ecology, biodiversity, climate change, environment, anthropology, landscape management, or sustainable rural development. For those with a bachelor's degree, two additional years of relevant professional experience are necessary to qualify for the position.

Experience:
The level of experience required varies by category: one year for Category C, five years for Category B, and ten years for Category A. Candidates should have relevant experience in developing substantive initiatives related to sustainable agriculture, natural resources, and environmental management. Experience in field positions and working in multiple locations or areas is desirable, as is experience in agriculture, forestry, fishery, biodiversity, natural resources management, and rural development.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English at level C is mandatory for this position. Additionally, proficiency in Spanish or French is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders and partners in the field.

Additional Notes:
The job is based in Rome, Italy, at the FAO Headquarters. The specific contract duration and seniority level are not mentioned in the job description. However, the position is likely to be full-time, and candidates may be recruited nationally or internationally. Compensation and benefits details are not provided, but candidates can expect a competitive salary and benefits package typical of FAO positions.