Senior Animal Health Officer (Antimicrobial and One Health Coordination)

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) was established in 1945 and is headquartered in Rome, Italy. 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. FAO operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of approximately 12,000 employees. The organization is committed to promoting sustainable agricultural practices and improving nutrition worldwide, aligning its efforts with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Job Overview:
The Senior Animal Health Officer position focuses on the integration of One Health principles into agrifood systems, particularly in the context of animal health and production. The role involves overseeing the development and implementation of strategies that address the health of animals, humans, and the environment. The officer will work on disease prevention, biosecurity, and responsible antimicrobial use, while also addressing antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including international organizations and national governments, to promote effective One Health strategies and ensure the sustainability of livestock development. The officer will lead initiatives that align with FAO's strategic objectives and contribute to the global efforts in managing health threats at the human-animal-plant-environment interface.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Animal Health Officer will be responsible for planning, managing, and leading specialized teams and projects related to One Health and AMR. Key responsibilities include analyzing global and country-specific requirements to inform FAO's strategic framework, implementing and monitoring programs of work, conducting research and analysis to support technical standards, providing policy advice to member countries, and representing FAO at international meetings. The officer will also lead resource mobilization efforts, coordinate the One Health Technical Working Group, and ensure the quality of technical and policy products. Additionally, the officer will promote collaboration with key partners and oversee flagship initiatives related to AMR and One Health.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in biology, life sciences, veterinary medicine, or a related field. A minimum of ten years of relevant experience in animal health, public health, and disease management is required, with a focus on One Health and AMR programs at the international level. Proficiency in English and intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language is mandatory. Candidates should demonstrate strong leadership, communication, and strategic thinking skills, as well as the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as biology, life sciences, veterinary medicine, or a closely related discipline. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of animal health and the interconnections between animal, human, and environmental health.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least ten years of relevant experience in animal health and production, public health, and disease prevention. Experience in One Health and AMR coordination at international, regional, and country levels is essential, particularly in field positions or direct support to countries. The role requires a proven track record in planning, implementing, and monitoring programs and projects in development organizations.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with a working knowledge of another FAO official language (Chinese, French, Spanish, Arabic, or Russian) being highly desirable. This linguistic capability is crucial for effective communication and collaboration with international stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Rome, Italy, at FAO headquarters. It is a full-time role that may involve international travel for meetings and collaborations. The organization emphasizes the importance of sustainability, gender inclusion, and capacity development in its operations. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with FAO's policies and standards.