Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) is a global research organization dedicated to providing evidence-based solutions for ending hunger and poverty. Established in 1975, IFPRI operates in over 40 countries and employs more than 300 staff members, including researchers, policy analysts, and support staff. The organization focuses on improving food systems and nutrition through research, policy advocacy, and capacity building, with a mission to promote sustainable security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and improve nutrition worldwide. IFPRI collaborates with various stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and the private sector, to address complex food and nutrition challenges, particularly in developing countries.

Job Overview:
The consultant position at IFPRI is crucial for enhancing the organization's engagement with Japan, particularly in the context of addressing food and nutrition challenges in developing countries. The consultant will represent IFPRI in Japan, advocating for the organization's initiatives and increasing its visibility among key stakeholders, including government officials and parliament members. The role involves collaborating with the Japanese private sector to design and implement research projects that align with broader development agendas. The consultant will also manage the IFPRI representative office in Tokyo, facilitating joint activities such as policy seminars and training sessions. This position requires a deep understanding of Japan's food and nutrition policies and the ability to foster partnerships with local organizations and potential donors.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Serve as the primary representative of IFPRI in Japan, ensuring effective communication with the Government of Japan and parliament members.
• Advocate for IFPRI's mission and activities, working to increase the organization's visibility and support within Japan.
• Assist the IFPRI team in designing research projects that align with Japan's development agenda, ensuring relevance and impact.
• Collaborate with the Japanese private sector to formulate new projects that address food and nutrition challenges.
• Manage the IFPRI representative office in Tokyo, coordinating joint activities with collaborators in Japan.
• Organize policy seminars, training sessions, and other events to promote IFPRI's work and engage stakeholders.
• Link IFPRI with potential donors and collaborators in Japan to enhance funding and partnership opportunities.
• Prepare and submit two activity reports by September and December, detailing efforts to strengthen partnerships between Japanese organizations and IFPRI.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for this consultant position must possess a PhD degree in economics or a related field, complemented by at least ten years of relevant professional experience, preferably within the Government of Japan. The candidate should demonstrate professional expertise in food and nutrition, particularly within Japanese development agencies such as JICA, and have significant involvement in health, nutrition, and food system improvement initiatives in developing countries. A well-established network within the Government of Japan, including connections with parliament members, is essential. Additionally, the candidate must have a strong understanding of Japan's current and recent global development agenda, along with excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Proficiency in both Japanese and English is mandatory.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a PhD degree in economics or a related field. This advanced educational background is crucial for understanding the complex issues related to food and nutrition policy and for engaging effectively with government and institutional stakeholders in Japan.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of ten years of relevant professional experience, ideally within the Government of Japan. Candidates should have a proven track record of working on food and nutrition issues, particularly in the context of international development. Experience with Japanese development agencies and a strong network within the government are highly desirable. Familiarity with IFPRI's work and initiatives will be considered an advantage.

Languages:
Proficiency in Japanese is mandatory, as the consultant will be required to communicate effectively with local stakeholders and government officials. Additionally, fluency in English is essential for collaboration with the IFPRI team and for reporting purposes. Knowledge of other languages may be beneficial but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This consultant position is expected to run from May 2026 to December 2026, with the possibility of extension based on performance and project needs. The role is full-time and requires the consultant to be based in Tokyo, Japan. The consultant may need to travel to IFPRI Headquarters in Washington DC, USA, as necessary. Compensation and benefits will be discussed during the interview process.