Natural Resources Sector Strategy Specialist

Organizational Context

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) country offices assist governments in developing policies and programs to enhance food security and promote sustainable development of natural resources. The FAO South Sudan Representation focuses on humanitarian, resilience, and development interventions in agriculture, livestock, fisheries, and natural resource management. South Sudan possesses significant natural resources vital for livelihoods and economic transformation, but faces constraints such as climate variability, environmental degradation, and weak institutional capacity. To address these, the government and partners established the Natural Resource Sector Working Group to harmonize sector policies and priorities, leading to the development of a draft Natural Resources Sector Strategy (NRSS).

Job Purpose

The Natural Resources Sector Strategy Specialist will lead the crucial technical review, stakeholder consultation, and finalization process for the Natural Resources Sector Strategy (NRSS) in South Sudan. This role requires close collaboration with members of the Natural Resources Sector Working Group, the Development Partners Working Group, relevant government institutions, and other key stakeholders. The specialist will ensure the NRSS is technically sound, incorporates diverse perspectives, and is aligned with national development objectives, ultimately preparing it for formal adoption and implementation to promote food security and sustainable resource management.

Responsibilities

The consultant will undertake a comprehensive technical review of the draft Natural Resources Sector Strategy (NRSS), integrating stakeholder comments, evidence, and policy recommendations. Responsibilities include facilitating structured consultations with government ministries, departments, and agencies to validate priorities and ensure policy alignment. The specialist will support the planning and technical facilitation of a National Stakeholders Validation Workshop for the NRSS review and endorsement. Additionally, they will liane with relevant institutions for high-level strategic consultations to position the NRSS within national development and economic planning frameworks. The role involves preparing concise strategic briefing materials and decision-support products for senior leadership and revising the NRSS to ensure technical quality, coherence, and readiness for formal adoption.

Work Experience

A minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience is required in areas such as natural resources management, policy development and compliance, strategic environmental planning and management, ESG, and strategic project management. Experience in South Sudan or similar emergency contexts is also beneficial.

Skills

Key skills include results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing. The role requires strong facilitation, drafting, stakeholder coordination, and analytical skills. Proven experience working with government entities, UN agencies, and donor partners is essential. A sound understanding of sustainability, climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, and natural resources governance is necessary. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are expected. Experience in national strategy development, public policy formulation, or sector planning processes is highly valued. Working knowledge of a second FAO language is an asset.

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