Investment Support Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The FAO Investment Centre (CFI) is a specialized branch of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) that focuses on providing investment and finance solutions aimed at creating more efficient, sustainable, inclusive, and resilient agrifood systems. Established to support FAO members, the Centre operates in over 120 countries, collaborating with various stakeholders including governments, international and national financing institutions, the private sector, farmers, research institutions, and academia. The CFI's mission is to enhance the quality and quantity of agrifood investments through strategic investment planning, policy support, public and private investment facilitation, and innovative finance solutions. Additionally, the Centre emphasizes knowledge sharing and capacity development to empower countries in their investment endeavors.

Job Overview:
The Investment Support Officer will play a crucial role in providing analytical and technical support in various areas related to agricultural development and investment policies. This position is integral to the formulation, implementation, and evaluation of investment strategies and projects in food and agriculture, rural development, and natural resource management. The officer will work closely with the FAO Representative in Côte d'Ivoire and will be expected to deliver investment and finance support solutions that align with the FAO Strategic Framework. The role requires a deep understanding of the agricultural sector, economic and financial aspects, and the ability to engage with multiple stakeholders to drive impactful agrifood system transformations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Investment Support Officer will participate in multidisciplinary teams to assist governments in identifying and preparing investment initiatives in security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, agriculture, and rural development. Responsibilities include supporting the implementation and final evaluation of investment solutions, preparing studies and strategies related to food and agriculture, and formulating national investment policies. The officer will also contribute to capacity development activities, prepare reports for various stakeholders, promote knowledge sharing at international meetings, and establish relationships with relevant FAO units to ensure synergy in investment and policy work. Additionally, the officer will support resource mobilization activities in line with the FAO Strategic Framework.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in fields such as economics, agricultural economics, agricultural sciences, environmental sciences, agribusiness management, or related areas. A minimum of five years of relevant experience in conducting analytical studies in the agricultural sector, planning, and supervising investment operations is required. Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in English and intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language, such as French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree, specifically a Master’s degree or equivalent, in disciplines related to economics, agricultural sciences, environmental sciences, agribusiness management, or other relevant fields. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of agricultural investment and policy formulation.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least five years of relevant experience in the agricultural or rural sector, particularly in conducting analytical studies, planning, and supervising investment operations. Experience in developing countries or countries in transition is particularly valuable, as it provides insight into the unique challenges and opportunities in these contexts.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English at full proficiency (level C) is mandatory, along with intermediate proficiency (level B) in another FAO official language, which could include Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish. Proficiency in French is particularly advantageous, as it is essential for communication within the region and for writing technical reports.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, and involves collaboration with various stakeholders in the region. The role may require travel for field missions and participation in international meetings. The FAO Investment Centre emphasizes a results-oriented approach, teamwork, and effective communication, and candidates should be prepared to engage in knowledge sharing and continuous improvement initiatives. The specific contract duration and seniority level are not mentioned, but the position is likely to be full-time.