Programme Officer (Biodiversity Mainstreaming)

Organizational Context

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) supports the transformation to efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems. The Office of Climate Change, Biodiversity and Environment (OCB) addresses challenges of climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation, acting as a focal point for major multilateral environmental agreements. OCB assists members with food security, climate change, and environmental degradation issues, facilitating access to climate and environmental financing. The Biodiversity team coordinates the implementation of FAO's Strategy on Mainstreaming Biodiversity across Agricultural Sectors and related projects, including the Agri-NBSAPs Support Initiative.

Job Purpose

The Programme Officer (Biodiversity Mainstreaming) will support the planning, development, and implementation of projects focused on integrating biodiversity considerations across agricultural sectors. This role involves providing technical and analytical support, developing methodologies, and managing project activities to ensure effective delivery and monitoring. The officer will contribute to strategic policy development related to biodiversity and support the coordination of key initiatives like the Agri-NBSAPs Support Initiative and projects funded by the Kunming Biodiversity Fund. Key responsibilities include monitoring project progress, managing budgets, liaising with stakeholders, and contributing to resource mobilization and knowledge sharing efforts.

Responsibilities

Coordinate and supervise the technical and operational implementation of the “Agri-NBSAPs Support Initiative” and “Mainstreaming biodiversity into agrifood systems to implement NBSAPs” projects, providing strategic direction and overseeing work plans and budgets. Monitor and report on project progress and results, developing programmatic and financial documentation, and ensuring timely FAO inputs. Support the selection of service providers and implementing partners, drafting agreements, and organizing workshops and capacity-building events. Provide technical guidance and methodological support to national project officers and consultants for policy analysis and multi-stakeholder consultations. Coordinate and implement global project activities and deliverables, contributing to awareness-raising and stakeholder engagement. Develop knowledge-sharing tools, technical briefs, case studies, and best practices, and maintain project-related web content. Develop project proposals on biodiversity mainstreaming and contribute to resource mobilization efforts. Provide advice to OCBB management on biodiversity matters and support events promoting FAO’s work in this area.

Work Experience

Five years of relevant experience in project or programme management of international cooperation projects related to biodiversity and/or natural resources. Experience in more than one work location or area, particularly in field positions, is desirable. Previous experience within the UN system or knowledge of FAO policies is a strong asset.

Skills

Proficiency in programme/project formulation, analysis, planning, and implementation, preferably in biodiversity. Knowledge of results-based management methodologies. Understanding of planning and budgetary processes. Knowledge of technical and policy matters related to biodiversity mainstreaming in agriculture sectors. Demonstrated ability to collaborate with resource partners and mobilize financial resources. Working knowledge (Level C) of French and/or Spanish is a strong asset.

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