Organizational SettingFAOs Subregional Office for Gulf Cooperation Council States and Yemen (SNG) is responsible for developing, promoting, overseeing and implementing agreed strategies for transforming food, agriculture and rural development priorities. It also develops and maintains relations with subregional wide institutions. The Subregional Office is a subsidiary of FAO Regional Office for Near East and North Africa region. The post is located in the FAO Subregional Office for the Gulf Cooperation Council States and Yemen (SNG) in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.Reporting LinesThe Senior Advisor on Food Security and Sustainable Agriculture reports to the Subregional Coordinator of SNG in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates to ensure corporate technical coherence and quality.Technical FocusTo provide expertise in enhancing food security, promoting sustainable agriculture, and conserving biodiversity in the UAE.Tasks and responsibilities
To provide strategic advice and technical expertise on food security, sustainability, and biodiversity conservation issues in the UAE and the Middle East region.
To collaborate with FAO teams and partners in developing and implementing innovative strategies and solutions for enhancing food production, promoting sustainable agriculture practices, and conserving biodiversity.
To engage with government agencies, academia, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to promote dialogue, knowledge sharing, and capacity building in the areas of food security and sustainable agriculture.
To represent FAO in relevant meetings, conferences, and events, and contribute to advocacy efforts aimed at raising awareness and mobilizing support for food security and sustainability initiatives.
Provide strategic guidance and technical support to FAO programs and projects related to food security, sustainable agriculture, and biodiversity conservation.
Conduct research, analysis, and assessments on key issues and trends in food security, agriculture, and biodiversity conservation in the UAE and the Middle East region.
Develop and review policies, strategies, and action plans aimed at enhancing food security, promoting sustainable agriculture practices, and conserving biodiversity.
Facilitate capacity building activities, workshops, and training sessions for government officials, agricultural stakeholders, and community groups on sustainable agriculture and food security.
Foster collaboration and partnership with government agencies, academic institutions, NGOs, and other stakeholders to support FAO's objectives in food security and sustainable agriculture.
Prepare reports, presentations, and communication materials to disseminate findings, best practices, and lessons learned from FAO initiatives in the field of food security and sustainable agriculture.
CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWINGMinimum Requirements
For COF: Advanced university degree in agriculture, environmental science, veterinary science, or related disciplines.
For PSA: University degree in agriculture, environmental science, veterinary science, or related disciplines.
Minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in food security, sustainable agriculture, biodiversity conservation, and policy development.
Working knowledge of English and Arabic is required.
FAO Core Competencies
Results Focus
Teamwork
Communication
Building Effective Relationships
Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement
Technical/Functional Skills
Work experience in more than one location or area of work
Extent and relevance of experience in providing strategic advice and technical support on food security and sustainable agriculture issues, preferably at the national or regional level.
Extent and relevance of experience in Strong analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders and foster collaboration.
Experience working with international organizations, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations in the field of agriculture and food security is highly desirable.