FAO Local Municipal Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has over 194 member countries and works in more than 130 countries worldwide. The organization aims to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. FAO's mission is to help eliminate hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition, promote sustainable agriculture, and manage natural resources sustainably.

Job Overview:
The FAO Local Municipal Specialist position is crucial for supporting the implementation of the project GCP/GEO/031/AUS, which focuses on 'Inclusive Rural Development and Sustainable Agriculture' from 2023 to 202

• The role involves working closely with local municipalities, project teams, and community members to enhance agricultural competitiveness and inclusiveness in rural development policies. The incumbent will be responsible for coordinating project activities, supporting community engagement, and ensuring that the project aligns with the Agriculture and Rural Development Strategy of Georgia for 2021-202
• This position requires a proactive approach to project management and a commitment to fostering sustainable agricultural practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the FAO Local Municipal Specialist include supporting the project team with on-the-ground project implementation, coordinating activities in target communities, and liaising with local municipal focal points in Martvili and Chokhatauri. The specialist will organize meetings with local interest groups (LIGs) and municipality representatives, perform logistics and secretarial tasks, and disseminate information about project activities to community members. Additionally, the role involves supporting the implementation of small-scale investment support and community support schemes, collecting data, conducting outreach activities, and monitoring project activities. The specialist will also assist in reviewing Community Development Action Plans, preparing trainings and workshops, and ensuring the integration of gender, youth, and social inclusion elements into field activities. Other relevant tasks may be assigned as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in agriculture, economy, public policy, international development, or a related field. A minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience in agriculture, rural development, project coordination, or field monitoring at the national level is required. Additionally, candidates must have a working knowledge of English at level C and must be nationals of Georgia or residents with a valid work permit. FAO core competencies such as results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing are essential for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in a relevant field such as agriculture, economy, public policy, or international development. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of rural development and agricultural practices, as well as for effectively engaging with various stakeholders involved in the project.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience in fields such as agriculture, rural development, project coordination, or field monitoring. Candidates should demonstrate proven experience in mobilizing and working with rural communities and farmers, as well as experience in multi-disciplinary teams and large-scale development projects. Familiarity with land governance, tenure systems, and legal frameworks related to administration" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">land administration is also beneficial.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English at level C is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in Georgian is essential, given the local context and the need to communicate effectively with community members and stakeholders. Additional language skills may be considered an asset, particularly if they facilitate better engagement with diverse communities.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Georgia and may involve travel to various project sites within the country. The role is full-time and may require flexibility in working hours to accommodate community engagements and project activities. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with FAO's policies and standards, and candidates should be prepared for a dynamic work environment that emphasizes collaboration and community involvement.