Senior Forestry Officer (Forest Biodiversity and Drylands)

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 works in over 130 countries worldwide, employing approximately 12,000 staff members. 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 encompasses a wide range of activities, including promoting sustainable agricultural practices, improving nutrition, and enhancing the resilience of livelihoods to threats and crises.

Job Overview:
The Senior Forestry Officer (Forest Biodiversity and Drylands) position is critical within the Forestry Division (NFO) at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy. This role focuses on the sustainable use, management, and conservation of forests and drylands across multifunctional landscapes. The officer will provide leadership and technical policy expertise for the planning, development, and implementation of divisional and cross-divisional programs of work, projects, products, and services in alignment with the FAO Strategic Framework. The position requires a deep understanding of the environmental, social, and economic dimensions of forestry, particularly in relation to biodiversity and dryland ecosystems. The officer will be responsible for analyzing global and country-specific requirements, implementing and monitoring programs of work, and providing technical and policy advice to member nations. This role also involves representing FAO at international meetings and fostering strategic partnerships to advocate for best practices in forestry management.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Forestry Officer will undertake a variety of duties and responsibilities, including but not limited to: planning, managing, or leading highly specialized or multidisciplinary teams; coordinating and participating in organization-wide, cross-divisional committees and project teams; providing technical leadership and secretariat services on technical networks; analyzing global and country-specific requirements to inform the FAO Strategic Framework; implementing and monitoring programs of work; conducting research and analysis to support the development of technical standards and international instruments; providing technical and policy advice to member nations; leading capacity development and knowledge sharing activities; representing FAO at international meetings; identifying and implementing strategic partnerships; and mobilizing financial resources for programs and projects. The officer will also oversee the secretariat services to the COFO Working Group on Dryland Forests and Agrosilvopastoral Systems and perform any other duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Senior Forestry Officer position must possess a strong background in forestry, biodiversity, and sustainable land management. They should have proven experience in policy development and implementation, as well as a solid understanding of international frameworks related to biodiversity and dryland management. The ideal candidate will demonstrate excellent leadership skills, the ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams, and strong analytical and communication skills. A track record of engaging with stakeholders at various levels, including government, NGOs, and the private sector, is essential. Additionally, candidates should have experience in resource mobilization and project management.

Educational Background:
A master's degree or higher in forestry, environmental science, natural resource management, or a related field is required for this position. Advanced training or certifications in biodiversity conservation, sustainable land management, or related disciplines will be considered an asset. Continuous professional development in relevant areas is encouraged to keep abreast of the latest trends and best practices in forestry and biodiversity management.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of relevant professional experience in forestry, biodiversity, and sustainable land management. Candidates should have a demonstrated history of working in international organizations or governmental agencies, with experience in policy development and implementation at both national and international levels. Experience in leading multidisciplinary teams and managing complex projects is essential, as well as a proven ability to engage with a wide range of stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, while knowledge of other UN languages, particularly French or Spanish, is considered an asset. Proficiency in languages relevant to the regions of work may also be beneficial, as it enhances communication with local stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role based at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy. The contract duration and specific terms of employment will be discussed during the interview process. The FAO is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of gender, nationality, or background. Compensation and benefits will be competitive and in line with UN standards.