FAO Representative

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has grown to include 195 members, comprising 194 countries and the European Union. The organization operates in over 130 countries worldwide, focusing on 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 sufficient high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. FAO's mission is aligned with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, emphasizing the transformation to more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems. The organization is committed to environmental sustainability, which is integral to its strategic objectives and operations, aiming to leave no one behind in the quest for better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life.

Job Overview:
The FAO Representative (FAOR) is responsible for managing and overseeing the FAO country programme, office, resources, and staff in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. The FAOR reports to the director-general" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Assistant Director-General/Regional Representative and collaborates closely with the Regional Leadership Team, ensuring that FAO's contributions align with national priorities and sustainable development challenges. The role involves advocating for action to accelerate the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and leading FAO's response to national priorities. The FAOR is expected to represent FAO towards national authorities and stakeholders, facilitate access to FAO's knowledge resources, and support UN joint communication efforts. The position requires a proactive approach to developing partnerships and mobilizing resources to support the operationalization of the Country Programming Framework (CPF) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF).

Duties and Responsibilities:
The FAOR's duties include representing and advocating for FAO's work, facilitating access to knowledge resources, leading emergency response coordination, developing and operationalizing the CPF, advising on country priorities, building partnerships, mobilizing resources, and ensuring effective programme implementation and monitoring. The FAOR is responsible for managing the Country Office, ensuring compliance with corporate policies, and overseeing the safety and security of FAO personnel. Specific responsibilities include leading the dialogue with national authorities, managing extrabudgetary resources, overseeing project implementation, ensuring timely reporting, and promoting staff development and welfare. The FAOR must also implement effective controls to mitigate operational risks and promote FAO's Corporate Environmental Policy.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in a relevant field such as agriculture, forestry, fishery, or rural development. A minimum of ten years of relevant experience in planning, formulation, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of field programmes is required. Candidates should demonstrate leadership competencies, including results focus, communication skills, and the ability to engage and empower others. Additionally, candidates must have experience in developing and managing country field programmes, resource mobilization, and negotiating with national governments and intergovernmental organizations.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in areas related to FAO's activities, such as agriculture, forestry, fishery, or rural development. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of food security and sustainable agricultural practices.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of ten years of relevant experience in the field, particularly in planning, formulation, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of field programmes. Experience in managing technical cooperation projects and programmes, including emergency and recovery efforts, is also essential. The role requires a demonstrated ability to develop and manage country field programmes from design to delivery, as well as experience in negotiating and collaborating with national governments and other stakeholders.

Languages:
Proficiency in both Spanish and English is mandatory for this position, with a working knowledge (level C) required. Additional language skills may be considered an asset, enhancing communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and based in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. The FAOR will be expected to lead and manage the FAO Country Office effectively, ensuring compliance with corporate policies and procedures. The role involves significant responsibility for the safety and security of FAO personnel and adherence to UN Security Policy. Candidates will be assessed against the minimum requirements and competencies outlined in the job description.