FAO Representative (FAOR)

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 a mission 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. With 195 Members, including 194 countries and the European Union, FAO operates in over 130 countries worldwide. The organization is committed to supporting the transformation to more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems, contributing to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda. FAO's work is guided by its Strategic Framework, which emphasizes environmental sustainability and aims to leave no one behind. The FAO Country Offices provide policy advice and support to countries, facilitating partnerships and delivering technical assistance while adhering to international standards of accountability.

Job Overview:
The FAO Representative (FAOR) is responsible for managing the FAO country programme, office, resources, and staff in Kazakhstan. 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. This position requires the FAOR to lead FAO's response to national priorities and sustainable development challenges, advocating for actions that accelerate the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The FAOR will develop and operationalize the Country Programming Framework (CPF) derived from the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF), ensuring alignment with national priorities and FAO's strategic objectives. The role also involves representing FAO in national fora, advocating for food security and agriculture policy, and leading emergency response efforts in collaboration with national authorities and the UN Country Team.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The FAOR has a wide range of responsibilities, including representing FAO towards national authorities and stakeholders, advocating for FAO's policy positions, and implementing a proactive communications strategy. The FAOR will lead the development of the CPF and Country Work Plan, analyze the country situation, and contribute to UN common planning frameworks. Building partnerships and mobilizing resources are crucial aspects of the role, as the FAOR will support the establishment of effective collaborations with governments, donors, and NGOs. The FAOR is also responsible for ensuring effective programme implementation and monitoring, managing the Country Office, and overseeing personnel and financial resources. This includes ensuring compliance with corporate policies, managing security and safety matters, and promoting staff development and welfare.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree 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 have a working knowledge of English (proficiency - level C) and intermediate knowledge of another official FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish).

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

Experience:
Candidates should have at least ten years of relevant experience, particularly in planning, formulating, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating field programmes. Experience in multiple locations or areas of work, especially in field positions, is essential. The candidate's experience should encompass both programmatic areas and fostering relationships with government entities.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with a working knowledge (level C) required. Additionally, candidates must have intermediate knowledge (level B) of another official FAO language, which could include Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish. Knowledge of Russian is considered desirable.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and involves significant responsibilities in managing the FAO Country Office. The FAOR will be expected to lead and manage the office effectively, ensuring compliance with corporate policies and promoting ethical standards. The role may involve international travel and collaboration with various stakeholders, including government authorities and international organizations. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with FAO's policies and standards.