Subregional Coordinator for Eastern Africa

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has a mission 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. The organization operates in over 130 countries and employs thousands of staff worldwide, working towards the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. FAO's commitment to environmental sustainability is integral to its strategic objectives and operations, focusing on transforming agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable.

Job Overview:
The Subregional Coordinator for Eastern Africa (SRC) plays a pivotal role in addressing food security, nutrition, agriculture, fisheries, forestry, sustainable management of natural resources, climate change, and rural development issues in the Eastern Africa region. The SRC leads a multidisciplinary technical team and is responsible for the effective delivery of FAO's programs and initiatives in alignment with the FAO Strategic Framework 2022-3

• This position requires a strong focus on collaboration with various stakeholders, including the African Union and UN Economic Commission for Africa, to promote and implement regional flagship initiatives. The SRC is also tasked with ensuring that subregional priorities are reflected in corporate and regional policies, and that FAO's support aligns with national priorities of member countries.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Subregional Coordinator's duties include leading the analysis and dialogue on subregional priorities, advising internal partners on raising awareness of these priorities, and ensuring timely technical support for FAO programs. The SRC will oversee the mobilization of extrabudgetary resources and support member nations in addressing food insecurity and malnutrition. Responsibilities also include coordinating the implementation of FAO programs, monitoring progress, and ensuring compliance with corporate norms. The SRC will facilitate knowledge sharing among stakeholders, manage human and financial resources effectively, and promote environmental sustainability initiatives within FAO's operations. Additionally, the SRC will establish partnerships with governments, donors, and civil society organizations, advocate for FAO's policy positions, and represent FAO in various forums.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in agriculture, fishery, forestry, or international relations. A minimum of twelve years of relevant professional experience in development issues, management, and resource mobilization is required, with familiarity in international financial institutions and global funding mechanisms. Extensive managerial experience in fields related to FAO's mandate is essential, along with proven leadership capabilities and effective management skills. Candidates should demonstrate competence in partnership development with various stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and private sector organizations.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in a relevant field such as agriculture, fishery, forestry, or international relations. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of food security and sustainable development in the context of Eastern Africa.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of twelve years of relevant professional experience, particularly in development issues and management. Experience in resource mobilization, especially with international financial institutions and global funding mechanisms, is highly desirable. Additionally, candidates should have extensive managerial experience in areas related to FAO's mandate, demonstrating leadership capabilities in an international setting.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English at a proficient level (level C) is mandatory. Candidates should also have a limited knowledge of another FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) at an intermediate level (level B). This multilingual capability is important for effective communication and collaboration in the diverse contexts of Eastern Africa.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and involves significant responsibilities in managing human and financial resources. The role requires adherence to UN security policies and regulations, ensuring the safety of FAO personnel. The Subregional Coordinator will also lead initiatives under FAO's Corporate Environmental Policy, focusing on sustainability and efficiency in operations. The position may involve travel within the subregion and requires a commitment to FAO's mission and values.