FAO Representative (FAOR)

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 has a workforce of more than 12,000 employees. FAO's work is guided by the principles of sustainability, inclusivity, and resilience, aiming to transform agrifood systems to meet the challenges of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Job Overview:
The FAO Representative (FAOR) plays a critical role in managing the FAO country programme in Timor-Leste, ensuring that the organization's strategic objectives are met in alignment with national priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The FAOR is responsible for leading FAO's response to national priorities and sustainable development challenges, advocating for action to accelerate the realization of the SDGs, and representing FAO in various national and international forums. This position requires a strong focus on collaboration with government authorities, stakeholders, and the UN Country Team to implement the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF). The FAOR will also oversee the development of the Country Programming Framework (CPF) and ensure effective mobilization of resources to support FAO's initiatives in the country.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The FAOR's duties include representing FAO to national authorities and stakeholders, advocating for FAO's policy positions, facilitating access to FAO's knowledge resources, leading emergency response efforts, developing and operationalizing the CPF, building partnerships, mobilizing resources, and ensuring effective programme implementation and monitoring. The FAOR will manage the Country Office, ensuring compliance with corporate policies and effective use of resources, while also addressing operational risks and promoting staff development. Key responsibilities also include overseeing financial management, ensuring adherence to security policies, and promoting gender equality within the organization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in a relevant field such as agriculture, forestry, fishery, or rural development. A minimum of ten years of relevant experience in planning, formulation, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of field programmes is required. Candidates should demonstrate leadership competencies, including results focus, communication skills, and the ability to engage and empower others. Technical skills in managing country field programmes and resource mobilization are also essential.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in a field related to FAO's activities is mandatory. Relevant fields include agriculture, forestry, fishery, rural development, or other related disciplines that align with the organization's mission and objectives.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least ten years of relevant experience in the field, particularly in planning, implementation, and evaluation of programmes. Experience in managing technical cooperation projects and negotiating with national governments and intergovernmental organizations is highly desirable. Work experience in multiple locations or areas of work, especially in field positions, is essential for this role.

Languages:
Proficiency in English (level C) is required, along with intermediate knowledge (level B) of another official FAO language, which may include Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish. Strong communication skills in both languages are necessary for effective representation and advocacy.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Dili, Timor-Leste, and involves full-time responsibilities. Candidates will be assessed against the minimum requirements and competencies outlined in the job description. The FAOR will be expected to lead initiatives under FAO's Corporate Environmental Policy and contribute to the organization's sustainability goals.