Specialist in Indigenous Peoples Unit

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) was established in 1945 and is headquartered in Rome, Italy. The organization aims to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and to ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. FAO operates in over 130 countries and has a mission to support sustainable agricultural practices, improve nutrition, and promote sustainable management of natural resources. The organization works with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and the private sector, to transform agrifood systems and contribute to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Job Overview:
The position of Specialist in the Indigenous Peoples Unit (PSUI) within the Partnerships and UN Collaboration Division (PSU) at FAO focuses on providing technical support and insights into the work of FAO across various technical divisions. The incumbent will engage with Indigenous Peoples to implement the FAO Policy on Indigenous and Tribal Peoples, ensuring their rights and participation in decision-making processes. The role involves advocating for Indigenous Peoples' issues, integrating their perspectives into FAO's work, and promoting sustainable development practices that respect their rights and knowledge systems. The specialist will also contribute to the development of outreach materials and communication strategies to raise awareness about Indigenous Peoples' food systems and rights.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including drafting and producing communication materials such as briefs, web stories, and newsletters related to the work of the Indigenous Peoples Unit. They will prepare press notes and other communication materials, undertake layout work for promotional materials, and update the PSUI website. The specialist will coordinate with graphic designers for publication graphics and support the creation of the PSUI Advocacy Plan. They will manage the PSUI's social media presence, create content for internal communications, and coordinate video production related to PSUI activities. Additionally, the specialist will monitor outreach performance, support event organization, and gather content from the field to contribute to news items and multimedia content. They will also ensure compliance with FAO standards and guidelines in all communication materials produced.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in communication, development studies, environmental science, social sciences, anthropology, human rights, or a related field recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO. For those with a bachelor's degree, two additional years of relevant professional experience are required. A minimum of one year of relevant experience in public or private sectors related to outreach and programming in food and agriculture is necessary. Full proficiency or working knowledge of English, French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, or Russian is also required. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical and conceptual skills, experience working with Indigenous Peoples, and proficiency in digital communication tools and platforms.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in fields related to FAO's mandate, such as communication, development studies, environmental science, social sciences, anthropology, or human rights. An advanced degree is preferred, and candidates with a bachelor's degree must have additional relevant experience. The educational qualifications should be from institutions recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO, ensuring that the candidate has a solid foundation in the necessary disciplines to effectively engage with Indigenous Peoples and contribute to FAO's mission.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least one year of relevant experience in outreach and programming within the food and agriculture sectors. Experience working in diverse locations or areas of work, particularly with Indigenous Peoples, is highly valued. The role requires familiarity with Indigenous Peoples' food systems, governance, and rights, as well as experience in research and advocacy related to Indigenous issues. Specific experience in Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) matters is essential for certain consultants, highlighting the importance of understanding Indigenous rights and participatory processes.

Languages:
Full proficiency or working knowledge of at least one of the UN official languages (English, French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, or Russian) is mandatory. The ability to work and write in at least two UN official languages is considered a strong asset, as it enhances communication and collaboration within the multicultural environment of FAO and with various stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is likely to be full-time, and while specific contract duration details are not provided, candidates should be prepared for a role that may involve international collaboration and outreach. The position emphasizes the importance of building effective relationships and teamwork, as well as a commitment to results-focused work. Compensation and benefits details are not specified in the job ad, but candidates can expect to adhere to FAO's standards and guidelines throughout their work.