Senior Food Standards Officer

Organizational Context

The Secretariat of the Joint FAO/World Health Organization (WHO) Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) is located at FAO Headquarters in Rome, Italy. As the executive organ of the Joint FAO/WHO Food Standards Programme, it services the Commission and its subsidiary bodies. The Secretariat liaises with FAO, WHO, the World Trade Organization, the United Nations, and other relevant international organizations concerning food safety, quality, and trade standards.

Job Purpose

This Senior Food Standards Officer role requires a blend of technical expertise in food safety, quality, and standard setting, alongside strong leadership, negotiation, and management capabilities. The incumbent will represent the Codex Secretariat in high-level multilateral forums, necessitating technical insight, sound judgment, and diplomatic skills to effectively engage with 189 Members and numerous Observers. The position demands the ability to lead confidently, foster collaboration and consensus, and ensure the successful delivery of Codex standards and related texts in alignment with the Codex Strategic Plan.

Responsibilities

Provide technical guidance and leadership for the Codex Alimentarius Commission's work, ensuring effective delivery aligned with the Codex Strategic Plan. Foster internal and external work relations with FAO, WHO, Codex Members, and Observer Organizations, promoting equitable contribution and access to Codex work results. Offer strategic direction and technical guidance to Codex Subsidiary bodies, particularly on new issues. Lead Codex Secretariat teams supporting subsidiary bodies, providing procedural guidance and options for standards development and consensus building. Oversee the preparation, quality assurance, and timely publication of reports, working papers, and standards. Assess emerging technical, policy, and procedural issues relevant to Codex work and develop necessary working papers. Review and advise on proposals for new Codex standard-setting work. Provide strategic advice for planning and implementing Codex sessions and subsidiary bodies, directing support to the Commission and its Executive Committee. Supervise and mentor staff, fostering teamwork and continuous improvement. Represent the Codex Secretariat at international meetings and build strategic partnerships with key organizations. Advocate for Codex work globally and support Member engagement. Lead resource management and mobilization activities. Enhance communication and engagement with Members and Observers, promoting recognition and impact of Codex standards.

Work Experience

Ten years of relevant experience is required in the development and/or application of science-based food safety and quality standards, food safety/quality related public policy, or food control. Experience in more than one work location or area, particularly in field positions, is essential. Knowledge of the Codex Alimentarius Commission's work is a strong asset.

Skills

Demonstrated sound judgment and ability to facilitate consensus building, promote collaboration, and lead confidently in multilateral environments. Proven experience in analyzing technical and policy issues related to food safety, quality, and standards, and presenting solutions. Ability to work effectively and diplomatically with diverse internal and external collaborators. Experience in intergovernmental, governmental, or non-governmental organizations at the international level, including intergovernmental negotiations and multilateral fora related to food safety and trade.

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