Agriculture Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group (WBG) is a global development cooperative established to provide financial and technical assistance to developing countries. It consists of five specialized institutions: the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), the International Development Association (IDA), the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA), and the International Centre for the Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID). The WBG operates in 189 member countries and is the largest development bank in the world, focusing on poverty reduction and promoting shared prosperity. The organization has a significant presence in Western and Central Africa, with a portfolio of over 306 projects totaling more than $62.9 billion, addressing various sectors including agriculture, trade, transport, energy, education, health, water, and sanitation. The WBG aims to end extreme poverty and promote shared prosperity, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, where the majority of the world's extreme poor are projected to live by 2030.

Job Overview:
The Agriculture Specialist position at the World Bank involves contributing to the delivery of the unit's work program in Mali, aligning with the WBG AgriConnect initiative. The role requires leading task teams to deliver impactful projects and strategic advisory tasks while collaborating with various stakeholders, including Task Team Leaders, the Practice Manager, and the Mali Country Team. The Agriculture Specialist will provide policy advice to government counterparts on agriculture, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, and agribusiness development, ensuring sustained policy dialogue on agri-food system reforms. The position also entails identifying innovative solutions to address food insecurity and participating in analytical activities relevant to the agricultural sector in Mali. The Agriculture Specialist will represent the World Bank in development partner forums and support coordination with other Global Practices to provide integrated solutions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Agriculture Specialist will report to the Practice Manager for the SAWA4 unit and will be responsible for several core functions: supporting the implementation of the FAB strategic approach to food security and agribusiness in Mali, providing policy advice to government counterparts, identifying opportunities to address agricultural challenges, leading analytical activities, representing the World Bank in relevant forums, coordinating with development partners, and contributing to knowledge products and learning activities. The role also includes providing technical guidance and mentoring to junior staff and fostering a collaborative team culture.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate professional excellence, outstanding oral and written communication skills, and the ability to convert strategic thinking into practical solutions. Specific qualifications include a master's degree or PhD in agricultural and resource economics, agribusiness, or a closely related discipline, along with at least 5 years of relevant professional experience in agriculture and agribusiness. Strong technical and analytical skills, a solid understanding of agri-food value chains, and effective communication skills in both English and French are essential. Familiarity with World Bank operational processes is an advantage, and candidates should be self-motivated and able to work under pressure.

Educational Background:
A master's degree or PhD in agricultural and resource economics, agribusiness, agriculture, or a closely related discipline is required for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of agricultural systems and the economic factors influencing them.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of relevant professional experience in agriculture, agribusiness, and related disciplines. This experience should include working with governments and multiple stakeholders, such as the private sector and development partners, to address food systems challenges.

Languages:
The mandatory languages for this position are French and English, with effective verbal, analytical, and written communication skills required in both languages. Proficiency in these languages is essential for producing high-quality documents and engaging with stakeholders effectively. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not specified as mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position is a local recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 3 years. The World Bank Group offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees regardless of gender, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. Candidates should be prepared for extensive travel as part of their role.