Fishery Officer (Data Coordination)

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 has over 194 member countries and works in more than 130 countries worldwide. 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. The Fisheries and Aquaculture Division (NFI) focuses on transforming aquatic systems and promoting sustainable management of aquatic food systems. The General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM) is a regional fisheries management organization that operates under the FAO's framework, dedicated to the sustainable development of fisheries and aquaculture in the Mediterranean and the Black Sea.

Job Overview:
The Fishery Officer (Data Coordination) plays a crucial role in supporting the GFCM's mandate by leading the development and continuous improvement of fisheries and aquaculture data management systems. This position is responsible for ensuring the timely collection, integration, quality assurance, analysis, and dissemination of relevant data and information. The officer will provide technical leadership on data governance, enhance data interoperability, and foster collaboration with members and partners. The role is pivotal in supporting evidence-based decision-making and promoting transparency in data exchange, ultimately contributing to the GFCM's strategic objectives. The officer will supervise a team of specialists and work closely with technical staff at the GFCM Secretariat, ensuring effective management of fisheries and aquaculture data.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Fishery Officer will be responsible for researching, analyzing, and providing access to fisheries and aquaculture data, producing technical reports, and providing analytical services on various projects. The officer will participate in the development of improved technical tools and methodologies, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and promote best practices at international meetings. Specific functions include overseeing data processes, conducting data analysis, managing the GFCM Data Collection Reference Framework, and supporting capacity development efforts. The officer will also coordinate the specification and improvement of data platforms and ensure proper documentation of data systems. Additionally, the officer will facilitate data access and dissemination, promote innovation in data management, and assist in resource mobilization activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in fishery science, statistics, development economics, sustainable agriculture, or a related field. A minimum of five years of relevant experience in fisheries or bio-statistics, particularly in data processes at national, regional, or international levels, is required. Proficiency in English and intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) is mandatory. Candidates should demonstrate strong competencies in results focus, teamwork, communication, and knowledge sharing.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as fishery science, statistics, development economics, or sustainable agriculture. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of fisheries and aquaculture data management and analysis.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of relevant experience in fisheries or bio-statistics, focusing on data processes, including the collection and management of data at various levels. Experience in leading multidisciplinary teams and providing technical support to senior officials is also essential. Familiarity with the role of Regional Fisheries Management Organizations in data collection and reporting is highly desirable.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with a requirement for intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish. This linguistic capability is crucial for effective communication and collaboration within the international context of the FAO.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Rome, Italy, at the GFCM headquarters. The role involves full-time engagement and may require international travel for meetings and collaborations. Candidates should be prepared for a dynamic work environment that emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and the promotion of sustainable fisheries and aquaculture practices.