National Sanitary and Phytosanitary Expert

Organizational Context

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) aims to achieve food security for all and support sustainable agrifood systems globally. FAO operates in over 130 countries, providing policy advice, technical assistance, and capacity development. In Nepal, agriculture is a vital sector, contributing significantly to GDP and livelihoods. However, Nepal faces substantial challenges in meeting international Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) standards, hindering its agricultural export potential, particularly for commodities like citrus, medicinal plants, and indigenous foods. This project aims to strengthen Nepal's phytosanitary capacity and improve market access.

Job Purpose

The incumbent will provide crucial technical support for developing a detailed project proposal to enhance Nepal's phytosanitary system and its capacity to comply with international standards. This involves aligning the proposal with national strategies and donor requirements, ensuring coherence between the narrative, budget, and implementation plan. The role requires developing a comprehensive budget, implementation plan, and risk assessment, while also facilitating stakeholder engagement to secure formal support and ownership. A final implementation report documenting activities, consultations, and outputs is also required, necessitating close coordination with FAO Nepal, regional technical officers, and an international consultant.

Responsibilities

Conduct comprehensive desk reviews of national phytosanitary policies, systems, and related projects to identify gaps and needs in regulatory frameworks, institutional capacity, and operational challenges. Provide technical support to map and engage key stakeholders, including government bodies, private sector actors, and research institutions. Collaborate closely with an international consultant and project leadership. Facilitate stakeholder consultations, including interviews and focus group discussions, and contribute to related reports and documentation. Support field missions to collect and analyze data on SPS challenges and recommendations for priority commodities. Assist in developing the project proposal, including objectives, activities, Theory of Change, Logical Framework, and risk mitigation strategies. Ensure the integration of crosscutting issues such as climate risks, gender, and smallholder inclusion into the project design.

Work Experience

Requires at least 5 years of professional experience in Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) systems or food safety standards. An advanced university degree (Master’s or PhD) in agriculture, food science, plant protection, phytosanitary systems, or a related field is also a prerequisite. Working knowledge of English and being a national of Nepal or holding a valid work permit are essential.

Skills

Key skills include results focus, teamwork, communication, and building effective relationships. Proficiency in knowledge sharing and continuous improvement is expected. Essential technical skills involve applying logical frameworks and theory of change in project design, designing data collection tools, conducting stakeholder consultations, and developing monitoring indicators. A strong understanding of SPS/food safety standards, analyzing food safety compliance constraints in developing countries, and familiarity with agri-food project design are crucial. Excellent analytical writing for technical reports and proposals in English is required. Familiarity with STDF project requirements and UN/government procedures is an asset.

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