National Development Specialist

Job Advertisement

Position Title: National Development Specialist
Location: Hanoi
Country: Vietnam
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

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. FAO's mission includes promoting sustainable agricultural practices, improving nutrition, and enhancing rural livelihoods, particularly for smallholder farmers who face various challenges in achieving sustainable and resilient livelihoods.

Job Overview:
The National Development Specialist will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of the Forest and Farm Facility Program (FFF) and the Flexible Voluntary Contributions (FVC) Standard Sub-programme in Vietnam. This position focuses on addressing the challenges faced by smallholder farmers, particularly those involved in cocoa and coffee production, by promoting sustainable land management, enhancing market access, and improving livelihoods. The specialist will be responsible for project development, ensuring compliance with local regulations, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders. The role requires a strong understanding of sustainable agriculture and forestry practices, as well as the ability to engage with various partners to achieve project objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for drafting the project's expected outcomes, activities, and outputs, ensuring that the project proposal complies with Decree 114/2021/ND-CP regarding the management and use of ODA and concessional loans. This includes verifying eligibility, ensuring procurement compliance, and adhering to financial management guidelines. The specialist will contribute to the project design process, develop work plans, and ensure timely completion of deliverables. They will serve as the primary author for project documents, finalize the theory of change, results framework, and project budget, and liaise with existing FFF programs to incorporate lessons learned. Additionally, the specialist will identify potential co-financiers and secure commitments, undertake missions as needed, and perform other relevant duties as requested by FAO.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in environmental science, natural resource management, development studies, or a related field. A minimum of 10 years of proven experience in project development and management, particularly in sustainable agriculture and forestry, is required. Candidates should have a working knowledge of English and the local language, and must be nationals of Vietnam. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships with stakeholders at various levels are essential, along with a strong understanding of FAO policies and procedures.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree in environmental science, natural resource management, development studies, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of sustainable agriculture and forestry practices, as well as the socio-economic factors affecting smallholder farmers in Vietnam.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 10 years of proven experience in project development and management, particularly in the context of sustainable agriculture and forestry. Experience working with smallholder farmers and rural communities is highly desirable, as is prior involvement in policy or strategy review. Familiarity with FAO policies, procedures, and requirements will be considered an asset, as will experience in developing countries, preferably in the target region.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English and the local language is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if it enhances communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including government entities and local communities. The role may require undertaking missions to target countries or sites as needed. While the job posting does not specify a deadline for applications, candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to ensure consideration. Compensation and benefits details are not provided in the job description.