Programme Development Specialist (Halting Deforestation)

Organizational Context

The FAO Forestry Division (NFO) leads global efforts in sustainable forest management, addressing environmental, social, and economic dimensions. It collaborates with countries, civil society, and the private sector on forest policy, conservation, and climate change mitigation and adaptation. The REDD+/Halting Deforestation, Degradation and Emissions (HaltDDEf) Team specifically supports countries in implementing REDD+ processes and other conservation initiatives to maintain forest cover, aligning with the UN-REDD Programme and national climate commitments.

Job Purpose

This role provides crucial technical support to the HaltDDEf team, focusing on strategic development, effective programme management, and successful resource mobilization efforts. The specialist will contribute to designing and implementing initiatives aimed at reducing deforestation and transforming agrifood systems. Key responsibilities include ensuring technically sound project designs, developing robust monitoring and evaluation frameworks, and fostering strong partnerships with donors to secure funding for critical environmental and climate-related projects, ultimately supporting countries in achieving their climate mitigation and adaptation goals.

Responsibilities

Lead and support the development of global, regional, and country-level project proposals focused on reducing deforestation and transforming agrifood systems, ensuring alignment with FAO's mandate and strategic framework. Design and implement internal processes for programmatic delivery and progress tracking. Identify, analyze, and engage with diverse donors, including bilateral agencies, climate funds, and philanthropic organizations, to assess opportunities and build partnerships. Conduct regular donor screening and pipeline reviews, maintaining a dashboard of funding and partnership prospects. Develop promotional materials, concept notes, and project proposals to highlight REDD+ results and impact for donor audiences. Support the design of donor engagement strategies and provide program management support for FAO-led activities, including tracking project progress and internal communications. Enhance the visibility of REDD+ and halting deforestation efforts through knowledge management and tailored communications for donors. Ensure compliance with FAO standards and clearance processes for all communication materials.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of relevant professional experience is required. This experience should encompass programme development, fundraising, project management, and communications, specifically within the context of climate mitigation projects, REDD+, or broader deforestation halting processes, and national/international climate mitigation targets.

Skills

Demonstrated experience in navigating international donor landscapes and securing multi-country projects, preferably in forestry, climate, agriculture, or land use. Expertise in proposal development, coordination, and organizational skills is crucial. Knowledge of sustainable commodities value chains, forest management, and climate finance is advantageous. Project management qualifications are desirable. Fluency in English is required; knowledge of French or Spanish is an asset. Experience in dynamic, multi-cultural, and politically evolving contexts is beneficial.

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