Project Coordinator - Women & Youth Economic Empowerment

Organizational Context

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) supports the transformation to more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems to improve production, nutrition, the environment, and livelihoods. FAO Country Offices assist governments in developing policies, programs, and projects to achieve food security, reduce hunger and malnutrition, and promote sustainable use of natural resources.

Job Purpose

The Project Coordinator will lead and coordinate the design, planning, implementation, and monitoring of initiatives focused on enhancing the economic opportunities for women and youth. This role is crucial in developing and executing strategies that address the specific economic challenges faced by these demographic groups within the agricultural sector, aiming to foster their empowerment and integration into sustainable livelihood pathways.

Responsibilities

Lead the design, planning, and implementation of livelihood projects for women and youth economic empowerment. Assess the needs of women and youth to develop targeted livelihood interventions addressing challenges in the agriculture value chain, including unemployment, skill gaps, and limited financial access. Develop concept notes and proposals for economic empowerment initiatives. Prepare and update annual work and procurement plans. Supervise national personnel specialists in value chains, agribusiness, and digital finance. Manage agreements, procurement packages, and contracts with partners and service providers. Compile and submit project reports as per FAO and donor requirements. Organize and facilitate training on leadership, livelihood development, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship. Participate in research and advocacy for policies supporting women and youth economic activities. Represent FAO in coordination forums and platforms. Ensure collaboration with government institutions, NGOs, youth organizations, financial service providers, UN partners, and the private sector. Work with MEAL teams on reporting, data analysis, and impact measurement. Document lessons learned and best practices for knowledge sharing.

Work Experience

At least 10 years of relevant international experience in managing multi-stakeholder agricultural development, resilience, and livelihoods projects. Focus on women and youth empowerment, employment, entrepreneurship, or private-sector engagement is essential.

Skills

Demonstrated capacity in managing large, multi-component programs with complex operational structures. Expertise in agribusiness, value-chain development, and financial inclusion for women and youth. Knowledge of digital finance and grants management. Excellent leadership, negotiation, and communication abilities. Proven experience in stakeholder coordination. Ability to work effectively under pressure in fragile contexts. Experience with FAO, UN agencies, or international NGOs is advantageous. Proven experience in technical project management, coordinating multidisciplinary teams, and collaborating with government and development partners. Experience in humanitarian, post-crisis, or transition contexts is highly desirable.

Explore related opportunities