Food and Nutrition Security Coordination Facilitator

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is an agency that leads international efforts to defeat hunger and improve nutrition and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security. Established in 1945, FAO has a mission to support the transformation of agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. The organization operates in over 130 countries and employs thousands of staff members dedicated to achieving food security for all. In Sierra Leone, FAO collaborates with various UN agencies, including UNICEF, WFP, and WHO, to implement programs aimed at improving food and nutrition security, climate resilience, and livelihoods, particularly for vulnerable populations such as women, youth, and children. The Joint United Nations Nutrition Programme (UNN) is one of the key initiatives that FAO is involved in, contributing to national strategies and frameworks like the Feed Salone Strategy and UNSDCF outcomes.

Job Overview:
The Food and Nutrition Security Coordination Facilitator will play a crucial role in providing technical and operational support to enhance multi-sectoral coordination mechanisms within the context of food and nutrition security. This position is vital for revitalizing and operationalizing the Food and Nutrition Security Working Group (FNSWG) and ensuring effective collaboration among various stakeholders, including government entities, UN agencies, NGOs, and the private sector. The facilitator will focus on improving access to nutrition-sensitive services, strengthening governance in food and nutrition systems, and ensuring that interventions are aligned with national policies and strategies. The role requires a proactive approach to enhance information sharing, reporting, and evidence-based decision-making, ultimately contributing to the sustainability of food and nutrition interventions in Sierra Leone.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for a variety of tasks aimed at strengthening coordination platforms and stakeholder engagement. Key duties include reviewing and updating the Terms of Reference (ToR) for the FNSWG, facilitating regular coordination meetings, and revitalizing coordination platforms at both national and sub-national levels. The facilitator will also work on strengthening collaboration among government agencies, UN organizations, NGOs, and the private sector, ensuring that all interventions are aligned with national policies. Additionally, the role involves supporting the identification of government focal points for coordination, providing capacity building and mentoring, and promoting the institutionalization of coordination functions within government structures. The facilitator will contribute to the development and implementation of a coordination strengthening plan, support national processes related to food systems and the right to food, and ensure proper documentation of meetings and action points. Furthermore, the incumbent will organize workshops and consultations, facilitate stakeholder dialogue, and follow up on agreed actions to ensure effective implementation of strategies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in fields such as Nutrition, Agriculture, Public Health, Development Studies, or a related area. A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in food security and nutrition, multi-sectoral coordination, or program and policy support is required. Proficiency in English at a working knowledge level (C) is mandatory, and candidates must be nationals of Sierra Leone. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate strong facilitation and stakeholder coordination skills, experience in multi-sectoral program implementation, and knowledge of food security, nutrition, and climate resilience frameworks. Strong analytical and reporting skills, as well as proficiency in Microsoft Office, are also essential for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in relevant fields such as Nutrition, Agriculture, Public Health, Development Studies, or other related disciplines. The degree must be obtained from an institution that is accredited and recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU) or UNESCO, ensuring that the educational qualifications meet international standards.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in areas related to food security and nutrition, multi-sectoral coordination, or program and policy support. This experience should ideally include facilitating coordination platforms or working groups, as well as working with government entities, UN agencies, and development partners. Familiarity with the food security and nutrition context in Sierra Leone is highly desirable, as it will enable the facilitator to effectively engage with stakeholders and contribute to the program's objectives.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English at proficiency level C is mandatory for this position. While English is the primary language required, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the local context or the stakeholders involved in the program.

Additional Notes:
The FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or processing. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. It is important to note that FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from institutions accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED). The appointment will be subject to certification of medical fitness, accreditation, residency or visa requirements, and security clearances. For additional employment opportunities, candidates can visit the FAO employment website.