Senior Fishery Officer (Aquaculture Technology)

Organizational Context

The Fisheries and Aquaculture Division (NFI) oversees the economic, social, institutional, governance, and policy aspects of FAO's work in fisheries and aquaculture. Its mandate includes promoting development with a focus on human well-being, food security, and poverty reduction. The Division also manages and conserves living aquatic resources, addressing biodiversity and ecosystem maintenance. This specific role is situated within the Aquaculture Technology, Production and Health Team at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy.

Job Purpose

This role is designed to lead and implement policies and programs aimed at maximizing the positive economic, social, and environmental impacts of aquaculture. The work will align with the FAO Code of Conduct on Responsible Fisheries, focusing on mitigating climate change impacts on aquaculture and reducing the sector's vulnerability to climate change and other stressors. Key responsibilities include providing leadership and technical policy expertise for planning, developing, and implementing divisional programs, projects, products, and services in line with the FAO Strategic Framework. This involves managing multidisciplinary teams, contributing to organization-wide initiatives, analyzing global and country-specific needs, and developing evidence-based strategies and tools.

Responsibilities

Develop and lead a comprehensive work program focused on marine, brackish, and freshwater aquaculture to enhance resource use efficiency and minimize environmental impacts, particularly greenhouse gas emissions per unit of production. Reduce vulnerability to climate extremes and other external stressors. Spearhead the implementation of the Blue Transformation Roadmap at regional and national levels, supporting global aquaculture development with a focus on Africa, Small Island Developing States (SIDS), and other priority regions. Drive aquaculture technology innovations, digitalization, and smart technologies, integrating them into existing or new aquaculture practices. Lead the creation of multidisciplinary programs and knowledge products on aquaculture technology and innovations. Contribute to cross-cutting NFI initiatives related to SDGs, climate change, biodiversity, food security, and nutrition. Secure extra-budgetary funding, particularly from the Global Environment Fund and the Green Climate Fund, to support NFI's expanding work program.

Work Experience

A minimum of ten years of relevant professional experience is required in areas such as aquaculture research, extension and development, aquatic environmental research and management, or aquaculture economics. Experience working in more than one location or area, particularly in field positions, is essential.

Skills

Demonstrated ability to provide scientific support and advice to national, regional, and international aquaculture networks in both developed and developing countries. Proven experience in planning and implementing aquaculture research and/or development programs or aquatic ecosystem management. Strong results-based management capabilities, with proficiency in managing programs, budgets, and human resources effectively amidst shifting priorities. In-depth knowledge of current global issues, trends, constraints, and research needs in sustainable aquaculture governance, policy, science, and innovation. Experience working in diverse countries and regions, especially in developing nations and countries in transition. Proven ability to mobilize resources and organize international meetings, seminars, and training courses.

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