Junior Liaison Specialist

Organizational Context

The FAO Liaison Office with the European Union and Belgium (LOB), established in 1997 and based in Brussels, represents the Organization to EU institutions and the Belgian Government. It facilitates communication and cooperation, acting as a liaison to various international bodies, regional governments, academia, private sector, NGOs, and UN agencies in Belgium. The office supports resource mobilization, disseminates FAO policy advice, and promotes information exchange on priority areas aligned with FAO's mandate.

Job Purpose

The Junior Liaison Specialist will primarily support coordination and liaison activities for two key projects: the FAO-IOM Project focused on diaspora contributions to climate action, and the ePhyto Project for implementing electronic phytosanitary certification in Central Africa and the EU. This involves engaging with FAO HQ, IOM, country offices, Belgian institutions, civil society, and Brussels-based stakeholders. The role also includes contributing to project activities, meetings, diaspora engagement, and migration-related events, with a particular emphasis on French language communication where needed. Additionally, the specialist will assist with the Liaison Office's broader communication and administrative tasks, such as newsletters and social media.

Responsibilities

The Junior Liaison Specialist will support liaison and coordination for the FAO-IOM Project, connecting the Liaison Office (LOB) with FAO HQ, IOM Brussels, and country offices in Morocco and Senegal. This includes liaising with Belgian public institutions and civil society organizations, and supporting project activities in Belgium, such as attending steering committee meetings and diaspora engagement events. For the ePhyto Project, the specialist will facilitate liaison between LOB, FAO HQ, and Brussels stakeholders, and contribute to visibility and communication efforts. This involves preparing and disseminating project-related communication materials, knowledge products, and outreach content, particularly in French, in collaboration with FAO's Office of Communications. The role also includes contributing to the LOB's monthly newsletter and social media, ensuring all communications adhere to FAO standards and guidelines.

Work Experience

A minimum of one year of experience is required in liaison, coordination, international cooperation, stakeholder engagement, communication, or project support. Experience in areas related to migration, diaspora engagement, plant health, food security, agriculture, or sustainable development is preferred.

Skills

Key skills include Results Focus, Teamwork, Communication, Building Effective Relationships, and Knowledge Sharing. Experience with migration or plant health issues is a strong advantage. Proven reporting skills and computer literacy in standard software applications (Microsoft Office) are assets. Familiarity with the institutional structures of the European Union and Belgium, and a demonstrated interest in FAO's mandate and multilateral cooperation, are also important. The ability to work under pressure within diverse teams is essential.

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