Partnerships for Development and Nutrition Support Officer

Partnerships for Development and Nutrition Support Officer

International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)

October 2, 2026November 3, 2026Benin
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is an international financial institution and a specialized agency of the United Nations. Established with the mission to eliminate poverty and hunger in rural areas, IFAD focuses on investing in rural communities. It finances programs and projects aimed at increasing agricultural productivity and rural incomes while advocating for policies that contribute to rural transformation at various levels. The IFAD country office in Cotonou, Benin, oversees operations in both Benin and Togo, managing a portfolio that includes several active projects designed to support agricultural development and market access. IFAD's commitment to rural development is evident in its ongoing projects and future plans, including the anticipated launch of new initiatives in the coming years.

Job Overview:
The Partnerships for Development and Nutrition Support Officer will be an integral part of the IFAD team in Cotonou, Benin, focusing on enhancing partnerships that drive development and improve nutrition outcomes. This position is designed for a United Nations Volunteer (UNV) who will provide technical support for the implementation of IFAD's Country Program in both Benin and Togo. The officer will work closely with the IFAD director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director and will be responsible for fostering collaborations with public and private sector actors to amplify the impact of IFAD's initiatives. The role emphasizes the importance of building a robust partnership framework that aligns with IFAD's strategic objectives, particularly in the area of nutrition, which is critical for achieving sustainable development goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The officer's responsibilities will include creating and managing a comprehensive partnership repository that documents IFAD's collaborations with various stakeholders, including multilateral institutions, bilateral partners, government entities, NGOs, and the private sector. This involves maintaining records of ongoing and past partnerships, tracking meetings, and ensuring follow-up actions are documented. The officer will also support partnership development by attending meetings, conducting scoping on initiatives in Benin, and identifying new opportunities for collaboration. Additionally, the officer will contribute to joint initiatives with other Rome-Based Agencies and development actors, focusing on reducing post-harvest losses and promoting the availability of nutritious foods. The role will require the preparation of concept notes, partnership briefs, and communication materials, as well as coordination of events and production of reports on partnership activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for this position should possess a strong understanding of partnership development, particularly in the context of international development and nutrition. They should demonstrate excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively. Strong communication skills are essential, as the role involves liaising with various stakeholders and preparing documentation for external partners. The ideal candidate will have a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to fostering collaborative relationships that enhance IFAD's mission.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as international development, public policy, nutrition, or a related discipline is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in partnership development or nutrition would be advantageous and may enhance a candidate's suitability for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have prior experience in partnership development, project management, or a related field, ideally within an international development context. Experience working with governmental and non-governmental organizations, as well as familiarity with the agricultural sector and nutrition initiatives, will be beneficial. The role may require a minimum of 2-3 years of relevant experience, demonstrating a track record of successful collaboration and project implementation.

Languages:
Fluency in French is mandatory, as it is the official language of Benin and essential for communication with local partners and stakeholders. Proficiency in English or other languages may be considered an asset, particularly for engaging with international partners and agencies.

Additional Notes:
This volunteer assignment is based in Cotonou, Benin, and is classified under hardship category B. The position is full-time, and the successful candidate will be expected to adapt to the living conditions in Benin, which include a tropical climate and a relatively calm security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security situation. The role may involve travel within the country and requires the candidate to obtain an entry visa prior to arrival. The organization offers a supportive environment for professional development and encourages continuous learning.
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