Senior Agricultural Officer (Plant Production and Protection)

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Regional Office for Africa (RAF) is dedicated to leading the implementation of the FAO Strategic Framework and addressing regional priorities in Africa. Established to ensure a multidisciplinary approach to agricultural programs, the office identifies key areas for action and collaborates with sub-regional offices and divisions at FAO headquarters. The organization plays a crucial role in supporting regional policy dialogue on security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, agriculture, and rural development, while also facilitating partnerships and capacity development in these areas. The FAO operates in multiple countries across Africa, focusing on enhancing food security and sustainable agricultural practices.

Job Overview:
The Senior Agricultural Officer (Plant Production and Protection) is a pivotal role within the FAO Regional Office for Africa, located in Accra, Ghana. This position involves reporting to the Deputy Regional Representative and working closely with various technical divisions and country office teams. The officer will focus on sustainable cropping systems, which include seed systems, agronomics, and plant health, emphasizing integrated pest management and innovations along crop value chains. The role requires leadership and technical expertise to plan, develop, and implement regional programs that align with the FAO Strategic Framework and Gender Policy. The officer will also engage in resource mobilization and represent the organization at international meetings, advocating for best practices and policy dialogue.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Agricultural Officer will be responsible for planning and managing specialized teams, participating in regional committees, and providing technical leadership on international policy and standards. Key duties include analyzing global and country-specific requirements, implementing and monitoring work programs, conducting research and analysis to support technical standards, and providing policy advice to member countries. The officer will lead capacity development initiatives, represent the FAO at international conferences, and engage in resource mobilization activities. Specific functions include developing interventions for climate change adaptation, promoting modern agricultural technologies, and strengthening partnerships and networks for sustainable crop production systems.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in agronomy, plant science, or a related field, with a specialization in seed science or crop improvement. A minimum of ten years of relevant experience in public or private sector institutions, particularly in seeds and plant genetic resources, is required. Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in English and intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish. Competencies in results focus, leadership, communication, and strategic thinking are essential, along with technical skills in policy development and resource mobilization.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree, specifically a Master’s degree or equivalent, in agronomy, plant science with a specialization in seed science/technology, crop improvement, or a related field. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of plant production and protection systems and for effectively addressing the challenges faced in sustainable agriculture.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least ten years of relevant experience working with public or private sector institutions or international organizations, particularly with a focus on seeds and plant genetic resources. Experience in developing countries is highly valued, as is work experience in multiple locations or areas of work, especially in field positions. The ability to analyze technical issues for policy development and provide advice at various levels is essential.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with a requirement for intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish). Additionally, intermediate knowledge of French is considered an asset, enhancing communication capabilities within the organization and with member countries.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and based in Accra, Ghana. The FAO is committed to promoting gender equality and diversity within its workforce, and candidates from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. The role may involve international travel for meetings and conferences, and candidates should be prepared for resource mobilization activities as part of their responsibilities.