Specialist in Sustainable Cities, Green Infrastructure and Urban Food Systems

Organizational Context

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) supports countries in addressing global environmental challenges through projects financed by the Global Environment Facility (GEF). With the GEF-9 replenishment cycle approaching, FAO seeks a consultant to develop a project proposal for "Green Cities that Nourish": Nature-based Solutions and Urban Food Systems for Biodiversity, Climate and Social Inclusion in Brazil. This initiative aligns with the GEF Sustainable Cities Integrated Program, promoting nature-positive urban development and integrated planning approaches.

Job Purpose

The primary purpose of this role is to support the preparation of the Project Identification Form (PIF) for the "Green Cities that Nourish" project in Brazil. This involves close consultation with Brazilian government ministries (MMA and MDS), pilot city representatives, and FAO Brazil, FAORLC, and FAO Headquarters. The PIF will be submitted to the Government of Brazil for validation and subsequently to the GEF for approval, ensuring alignment with national priorities and GEF guidelines for sustainable urban development and food systems.

Responsibilities

The Specialist will provide technical expertise for project formulation, ensuring compliance with GEF and FAO policies and alignment with national priorities. This includes gathering and consolidating necessary information for project justification, design, components, outcomes, outputs, budget, co-financing, and institutional arrangements. A key responsibility is preparing a high-quality PIF document that meets GEF eligibility criteria and GEF-9 programmatic guidelines. The role also involves participating in technical meetings related to PIF preparation and performing any other related tasks as required by the Terms of Reference to ensure the successful development of the project proposal.

Work Experience

Requires at least ten years of professional experience in environmental and sustainable development projects. This includes a minimum of three years of proven experience in designing technical cooperation projects for international organizations, donors, or Brazilian public institutions. Experience in formulating, coordinating, or implementing projects related to sustainable development, environmental management, biodiversity conservation, climate change, or urban food systems is crucial. Familiarity with Results-Based Management (RBM) frameworks and experience preparing proposals for international financing mechanisms, particularly the GEF, are also important.

Skills

Essential skills include demonstrated experience in designing and managing environmental technical cooperation projects in Brazil, with a focus on sustainable cities, nature-based solutions, green infrastructure, urban resilience, biodiversity, climate adaptation, or sustainable food systems. Proficiency in Results-Based Management (RBM) and knowledge of GEF Integrated Programs, particularly the Sustainable Cities program, are vital. Experience with multi-level governance processes and technical knowledge of Brazilian public policies related to urban development and food security are required. Excellent technical writing and communication skills in English and Portuguese are necessary.

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