National Lead Technical Expert

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is dedicated to achieving security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensuring that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. Established in 1945, FAO has grown to include 194 member countries and operates in over 130 countries worldwide. The organization focuses on various aspects of agriculture, including sustainable practices, food security, and rural development, aligning its efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In Serbia, FAO's mission is to accelerate action towards sustainable agriculture, addressing issues such as forestry, food system transformation, biodiversity, and the impacts of climate change on agriculture and rural economies. FAO collaborates with various partners to improve agricultural productivity and protect ecosystems, aiming to enhance community resilience in line with Agenda 2030.

Job Overview:
The National Lead Technical Expert position is crucial for the successful implementation of the Joint Programme "Unlocking Investments for SDG Acceleration and Agrifood Systems Transformation in Serbia." This role requires a deep understanding of sustainable investments, agriculture, and rural development. The expert will leverage local knowledge and technical expertise to facilitate communication and coordination among stakeholders, including government ministries, local governments, NGOs, and financial institutions. The position demands strong leadership skills to guide the local team in achieving project objectives, milestones, and targets. The expert will also be responsible for organizing project activities, leading workshops, and preparing materials for project meetings, ensuring that all stakeholders are engaged and informed throughout the process.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Lead Technical Expert will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Leading and coordinating the work of national consultants, ensuring that project implementation plans are prepared and updated regularly.
• Supporting the procurement plan and drafting Terms of Reference (ToRs) and Letters of Agreement (LoAs).
• Establishing effective internal and external communication structures to maintain coordination with key stakeholders, including the Standing Conference of Towns and Municipalities (SKGO) and the Rural Network of Serbia.
• Organizing project inception missions and workshops, preparing necessary materials for Project Steering Committee Meetings.
• Facilitating the establishment and operational support of Territorial Investment Platforms (TIPs) and conducting territorial diagnostics to identify investment priorities and constraints.
• Identifying and advancing investment opportunities, including concept development and feasibility studies, while supporting IPARD-aligned investments.
• Engaging with International Financial Institutions (IFIs) and commercial banks to define cooperation mechanisms and match investment opportunities with financing sources.
• Driving gender participation benchmarks in collaboration with UN Women and monitoring the technical delivery of project partners, preparing progress reports for donors and FAO.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in fields such as Agriculture, Agricultural Economics, Rural Development, Business Administration, or Economics. Additionally, a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in managing or coordinating projects related to agricultural investments, rural development, or agrifood systems transformation is required. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of the agricultural sector and investment processes, as well as the ability to engage effectively with various stakeholders.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree, specifically a Master’s degree or equivalent, in relevant fields such as Agriculture, Agricultural Economics, Rural Development, Business Administration, or Economics. It is essential that candidates have obtained their qualifications from institutions accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in managing, leading, or coordinating projects that focus on agricultural investments, rural development, or agrifood systems transformation. This experience should demonstrate a strong capacity for project management and stakeholder engagement, as well as a proven track record of achieving project objectives and milestones.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English and Serbian is mandatory for this position, with a proficiency level of C. This bilingual requirement is essential for effective communication with local stakeholders and international partners. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or processing. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates must also be medically fit for appointment and meet any residency or visa requirements. The position may involve full-time engagement, and candidates should be aware that the appointment is subject to security clearances.