Senior Natural Resources Officer (Climate Change)

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of Climate Change, Biodiversity and Environment (OCB) is a vital part of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. Established to address the pressing issues of climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation, OCB plays a crucial role in coordinating responses among countries and stakeholders. It serves as the focal point for major multilateral environmental agreements, including the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). The office also assists FAO Members in tackling the interconnected challenges of security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and environmental sustainability, facilitating access to climate and environmental financing through mechanisms like the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Green Climate Fund (GCF). OCB hosts several important programs, including the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) Programme and oversees FAO's work on environmental safeguards. The office leads initiatives on Climate Change and Bioeconomy for Sustainable Food and Agriculture, ensuring that FAO's strategic objectives are met across various sectors.

Job Overview:
The Senior Natural Resources Officer (Climate Change) is a pivotal role within the Climate Change team at OCB, responsible for leading and implementing climate action strategies across agricultural sectors, including crop and livestock agriculture, fisheries, aquaculture, and forestry. This position requires a high level of technical expertise and leadership to develop and execute departmental programs and projects that align with the FAO Strategic Framework. The officer will analyze global and country-specific requirements to provide critical input into work plans and budgets, ensuring that climate change considerations are integrated into all aspects of FAO's work. The role also involves conducting research and providing technical and policy advice to member countries, supporting their efforts to address climate change through effective program implementation and capacity development. The officer will represent FAO at international meetings, advocating for best practices and fostering partnerships to enhance policy dialogue on climate action.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Natural Resources Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including planning and managing specialized teams, leading cross-departmental committees, and providing technical leadership on international policy and standard-setting bodies. The officer will implement and monitor programs of work, develop evidence-based strategies, and oversee research activities to support technical standards and policy advisory services. Key responsibilities include coordinating the implementation of the FAO Climate Change Strategy, planning and reporting on climate action, strengthening institutional capacity on climate change, and translating global climate policy frameworks into operational guidance. The officer will also lead the preparation of technical documents, engage in resource mobilization activities, and ensure the quality of climate-related programs while supporting member countries in integrating climate change into national policies and plans.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in natural resources management, environment, climate change, agriculture, forestry, fisheries, or a related field. A minimum of ten years of relevant experience in international organizations or public/private sector institutions focused on climate action and natural resources management is required. Proficiency in English (level C) and intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) is essential. Candidates should demonstrate strong competencies in results focus, leadership, communication, partnering, knowledge sharing, and strategic thinking, along with technical skills in climate change policy and program management.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree, specifically a Master’s degree or equivalent, in fields related to natural resources management, environmental science, climate change, agriculture, forestry, or fisheries. This advanced education is crucial for understanding the complexities of climate action and its integration into various sectors.

Experience:
The position requires a substantial level of experience, specifically a minimum of ten years in relevant roles within international organizations or public/private sector institutions. Candidates should have a proven track record in climate action and natural resources management, with experience in field positions being particularly valuable. The ability to produce high-quality technical and policy outputs, manage multidisciplinary teams, and engage in resource mobilization is essential for success in this role.

Languages:
Candidates must have a working knowledge of English at proficiency level C and intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) at level B. Proficiency in a second language, preferably French or Spanish, is desirable and can enhance a candidate's suitability for the position.

Additional Notes:
This position is based at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy, and involves full-time engagement in a senior role. The successful candidate will be expected to engage in international travel for meetings and conferences related to climate change and environmental issues. The role may involve collaboration with various stakeholders, including government representatives, international organizations, and civil society, to promote effective climate action and sustainable practices in agrifood systems.