National Professional Officer (Value Chain Development Expert)

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Position Title: National Professional Officer (Value Chain Development Expert)
Location: Riyadh
Country: Saudi Arabia
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The Regional Office for the Near East and North Africa (RNE) is part of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. Established to address regional priorities for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, agriculture, and rural development, RNE plays a crucial role in identifying, planning, and implementing FAO's priority activities across the region. The office ensures a multidisciplinary approach to programs, collaborates with various divisions and offices at headquarters, and develops strategic responses to regional challenges. RNE also maintains relationships with regional institutions and supports policy dialogue, capacity development, and resource mobilization efforts in the field of food security and agriculture. The organization operates in multiple countries within the Near East and North Africa region, focusing on enhancing agricultural practices and improving food security.

Job Overview:
The National Professional Officer (Value Chain Development Expert) is responsible for providing technical and operational support for the FAO's programs in Saudi Arabia. This role involves engaging in policy dialogue with government authorities and various institutions, representing FAO at inter-agency meetings, and promoting the organization's mandate and activities. The expert will coordinate the maintenance of country data related to food, crops, livestock, forestry, and fisheries, and will lead the production of technical and policy studies. The position requires a deep understanding of local conditions and institutions, as well as the ability to identify and formulate program proposals that align with national priorities. The expert will also be responsible for training and supervising lower-grade program staff, ensuring adherence to procedures, and improving operational efficiency.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the National Professional Officer include participating in policy dialogues, advising government authorities, and liaising with local and international institutions. The officer will promote FAO's image through advocacy and communication tools, manage country data on agricultural sectors, and lead the production of technical studies and development frameworks. The role also involves identifying and coordinating program proposals, monitoring field program implementation, and making recommendations for improvements. Specific functions include advising the FAO Programme Coordinator, coordinating with project focal points, conducting value chain analyses, and supporting local commodity value addition programs. The officer will also assist in designing and implementing programs for technology promotion, manage technical experts, prepare project reports, and develop partnerships for innovation and best practices in value addition and marketing.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be nationals of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and possess an advanced university degree in agribusiness, value chain analysis, agricultural economics, or a related field. A minimum of seven years of relevant experience in value chain analysis, agri-business development, or project implementation in sustainable rural agricultural development is required. Proficiency in Arabic (level C) and intermediate knowledge of English (level B) are also necessary. Competencies such as results focus, teamwork, communication, and building effective relationships are essential, along with technical skills in policy analysis, data collection, and program management.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in fields related to agribusiness, agricultural economics, or value chain analysis. This advanced degree is crucial for understanding the complexities of agricultural development and the economic factors influencing value chains in the region.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least seven years of relevant experience in areas such as value chain analysis, agri-business development, and project implementation. Experience in field positions and a demonstrated understanding of the technical program and operational guidelines, particularly those adopted by the United Nations or FAO, are highly desirable. Experience in Saudi Arabia is considered a strong asset, as it provides valuable insights into local agricultural practices and policies.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is Arabic, with a proficient level (level C) required. Additionally, candidates should have a limited knowledge of English (intermediate level B), which is beneficial for communication with international stakeholders and for accessing global resources and information.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and involves full-time engagement with responsibilities that may require travel within the region. The role is classified at a national level, and candidates should be prepared to work closely with various stakeholders, including government ministries and local authorities. The compensation and benefits package will be aligned with FAO's standards and policies for national professionals.