Technical Advisor (TA)

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the UN 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 focuses on transforming agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable, contributing to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda. FAO Country Offices provide policy advice and support to countries, ensuring effective operations and resource utilization while adhering to international standards of accountability.

Job Overview:
The Technical Advisor (TA) position is critical for the successful execution of the Agriculture Sector Transformation Programme (ATP) in Bangladesh, which is funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. The TA will be responsible for providing technical support to the Government of Bangladesh in implementing the ATP, which aims to conduct policy analyses, enhance collaboration with the private sector, and improve investments in agrifood system research and innovation. The TA will ensure regular consultations and coordination with key stakeholders, facilitating the attainment of the project’s objectives. This role requires strategic planning, programming of project activities, and effective stakeholder engagement to ensure timely delivery of outputs and successful project outcomes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The TA will lead the implementation of project activities, ensuring that targets are met and that the project goals are achieved. Responsibilities include preparing annual work plans and budgets, monitoring progress, and reporting on expenditures. The TA will supervise the technical assistance team and support the finalization of terms of reference for consultants. Additionally, the TA will engage in communication with the donor, monitor workstreams, contribute to fundraising efforts, and support communication initiatives to enhance visibility. The TA will also participate in multi-stakeholder platforms and prepare final reports at the conclusion of the project, ensuring compliance with FAO standards and guidelines throughout the process.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in agricultural economics or a relevant subject area. A minimum of seven years’ experience in agricultural transformation or agricultural systems management is required, including experience in programme management and working with governments in developing countries. Candidates should demonstrate competency in managing and executing programmes in complex situations, possess high-level managerial and analytical skills, and have the ability to communicate effectively with various stakeholders. Experience in advocacy and managing people at all levels is also essential.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in agricultural economics or a related field is mandatory for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of agricultural systems and the necessary economic principles that underpin effective agricultural transformation and development activities.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least seven years of relevant experience in agricultural transformation or agricultural systems management. This experience should include programme management in developing country contexts, covering a wide range of activities in the agricultural sector. The ability to work under pressure and independently within an interdisciplinary team is also important, as is experience in more than one location or area of work, which is considered an asset.

Languages:
A working knowledge (level C) of English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be beneficial but is not specified as a requirement. Effective communication skills are essential for representing FAO in dealings with various stakeholders, including government agencies and international organizations.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and involves working closely with the Government of Bangladesh and various stakeholders in the agricultural sector. The contract duration is anticipated to be 38 months, aligning with the project timeline. Candidates will be assessed against FAO's core competencies, including results focus, teamwork, communication, and building effective relationships. The role requires a high degree of discretion and integrity, as well as the ability to advocate effectively for the project's goals.