Assistant FAO Representative (Programme)

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations established in 194

• Its mission is to lead international efforts to defeat hunger and ensure security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all. With 195 members, including 194 countries and the European Union, FAO operates in over 130 countries worldwide. The organization aims to assist governments in developing policies, programs, and projects that enhance food security, reduce hunger and malnutrition, and promote sustainable use of agricultural, fisheries, and forestry resources. FAO Country Offices play a crucial role in implementing field projects and collaborating with local governments and stakeholders to achieve these objectives.

Job Overview:
The Assistant FAO Representative (Programme) is a pivotal role within the FAO Representation in Thimphu, Bhutan. This position involves providing technical and operational support for the development and coordination of programs and projects aimed at enhancing food security and agricultural sustainability in the country. The Assistant FAO Representative will work closely with government authorities, local institutions, and other UN agencies to promote FAO's mandate and activities. The role requires a deep understanding of local conditions, culture, and institutions, as well as the ability to effectively communicate and advocate for FAO's initiatives. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring that program activities are aligned with national priorities and FAO's strategic objectives, contributing to the overall mission of the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Assistant FAO Representative will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including:

• Liaising with government authorities and local, national, and international institutions to facilitate FAO's activities and represent the organization at interagency meetings.
• Promoting FAO's image through advocacy and communication efforts, including the development of communication tools such as websites, press releases, and publications.
• Coordinating the collection and maintenance of country data on food, crops, livestock, forestry, and fisheries, and monitoring changes in national policies affecting the agricultural sector.
• Participating in the production of technical, economic, and policy studies, and developing country-level frameworks such as the Country Programming Framework (CPF) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF).
• Identifying, formulating, and preparing program and project proposals, monitoring implementation status, and proposing corrective measures as necessary.
• Briefing, training, and supervising lower-grade program staff to ensure adherence to procedures and accuracy in work.
• Supporting the design and development of innovative agricultural and natural resource management initiatives and assisting in marketing these initiatives to donors and stakeholders.
• Ensuring effective implementation of agricultural programs that create sustainable impacts among FAO beneficiary communities.
• Contributing to country reporting and documentation of best practices for donors and stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must meet the following minimum requirements:

• Nationality of Bhutan.
• An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in agriculture, agricultural economics, forestry, fisheries, natural resources, rural development, business administration and management, international relations, or a related field.
• A minimum of three years of relevant experience in public or private sectors related to programming, planning, and technical cooperation in food and agriculture, or project implementation in areas relevant to FAO's activities.
• Proficiency in English and Dzongkha (the national language of Bhutan).

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in fields such as agriculture, agricultural economics, forestry, fisheries, natural resources, rural development, business administration and management, international relations, or any other relevant area related to FAO's work. This advanced education is essential for understanding the complexities of food security and agricultural development.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant experience in either the public or private sectors. This experience should be related to programming, planning, and technical cooperation in food and agriculture, or project implementation in areas pertinent to FAO's activities. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of program/project development and management, as well as experience in policy analysis related to nutrition" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food and nutrition security, agriculture, and rural development.

Languages:
Candidates must have a working knowledge (proficiency - level C) of English and Dzongkha, which is the national language of Bhutan. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication and collaboration with government authorities and local stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Thimphu, Bhutan, and is a full-time role. The Assistant FAO Representative will be expected to engage with various stakeholders, including government officials, NGOs, and international organizations, to promote FAO's initiatives and ensure the successful implementation of programs. The role may involve travel within the country to support field activities and engage with local communities. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with FAO's policies and standards.