Climate-related Sectoral Studies and Policy Review Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is a specialized agency of the United Nations 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 help eliminate hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition, make agriculture more productive and sustainable, reduce rural poverty, and enable inclusive and efficient agricultural and food systems. With over 12,000 employees, FAO operates in more than 130 countries, working with governments and partners to improve agricultural practices and policies, enhance food security, and promote sustainable resource management.

Job Overview:
The Climate-related Sectoral Studies and Policy Review Consultant will play a crucial role in supporting the FAO's initiatives in The Gambia, particularly under the Climate Resilient Fishery Initiative for Livelihood Improvement in the Gambia (PROREFISH Gambia). This position involves conducting comprehensive climate-related sectoral studies and providing technical support for the review and enhancement of national policies and strategies aimed at improving climate resilience in the fisheries sector. The consultant will work closely with various stakeholders, including government ministries and international consultants, to ensure that the policies developed are effective and responsive to the climate risks faced by Gambian fisherfolk. The consultant's work will be instrumental in identifying gaps in current policies, assessing institutional capacities, and integrating sustainable practices into the fisheries sector to enhance livelihoods and resilience against climate change.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a range of tasks, including: reviewing the PROREFISH project document and relevant national policies to understand the existing framework; mapping the roles and coordination mechanisms of key sectoral institutions; assessing institutional capacities and identifying gaps in climate risk assessment and policy implementation; supporting the revision of policies and strategies to integrate climate resilience; ensuring that cross-cutting issues such as gender and environmental sustainability are addressed; identifying opportunities for sustainable livelihoods; and organizing validation workshops to present findings and recommendations. The consultant will also be expected to produce high-quality reports and facilitate stakeholder engagement throughout the process.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Climate Change, Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, Fisheries Management, Environmental Policy, or a closely related field. Those with a bachelor's degree must have two additional years of relevant professional experience. A minimum of 7 years of professional experience in climate change adaptation, environmental management, or policy development is required. Candidates should demonstrate proven experience working with international organizations, particularly in similar assignments, and have strong expertise in climate risk assessment and adaptation planning.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in a relevant field is mandatory. Candidates with a bachelor's degree must have additional professional experience to qualify for the position. This educational background is essential to ensure that the consultant has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively contribute to the project.

Experience:
The position requires at least 7 years of relevant professional experience in areas such as climate change adaptation, environmental management, fisheries or coastal resource management, and policy development. Experience working in West Africa or developing countries is highly desirable, as it provides context-specific knowledge that is crucial for the successful implementation of the project.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory, along with limited knowledge of one other UN language. Proficiency in additional languages can enhance communication with diverse stakeholders and facilitate better engagement in the project.

Additional Notes:
This position is likely to be a consultancy role, with specific contract duration details to be confirmed upon hiring. The consultant will be expected to work full-time and may involve international collaboration with various stakeholders. Compensation and benefits will be discussed during the recruitment process, and candidates should be prepared for potential travel within The Gambia as part of their duties.