National Food Systems Policy and Planning Specialist

Organizational Context

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is dedicated to improving food security and nutrition by transforming agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. Through its Accelerating Food Systems Transformation initiative, FAO supports countries in advancing their National Food Systems Pathways. In Kiribati, this involves assisting the government, via MELAD and the National Food Systems Convener, in conducting a National Food Systems Needs Assessment, mapping support ecosystems, developing a validated Stakeholders' Action Plan (2026–2030), and organizing a National Food Systems Dialogue.

Job Purpose

This role provides crucial technical support for key food systems initiatives in Kiribati. The Specialist will contribute to the preparation of a National Food Systems Needs Assessment and the development of a nationally validated Stakeholders' Action Plan for 2026–2030. Additionally, the Specialist will offer technical assistance for the National Food Systems Dialogue. A core function involves conducting policy, institutional, and governance analyses to inform evidence-based planning, ultimately accelerating the implementation of Kiribati's National Food Systems Pathway.

Responsibilities

The Specialist will review national policies, legislation, strategies, and dialogue outcomes, preparing an Inception Report with methodology and workplan. Policy, institutional, and governance analyses will be conducted to support the National Food Systems Needs Assessment, culminating in a draft report. Coordination with the Ecosystem of Support Mapping Specialist will ensure aligned technical outputs. The Stakeholders' Action Plan (2026–2030) will be prepared, detailing implementation, responsibilities, monitoring, and resources. Technical papers and presentations for the National Food Systems Dialogue will be developed, and findings presented. Stakeholder validation processes will be supported, and comments incorporated into final outputs. An Assignment Completion Report will be submitted, and other related duties performed as required.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of relevant professional experience is required, specifically in areas such as food systems, agriculture, public policy, strategic planning, institutional development, or governance. Experience in undertaking policy, institutional, or governance assessments and preparing technical reports and policy documents is essential. Supporting multi-stakeholder consultations and working with government institutions and development partners is also crucial.

Skills

Essential skills include a results-oriented approach, teamwork, effective communication, relationship building, and knowledge sharing. Demonstrated experience in food systems policy analysis and strategic planning is required, along with expertise in conducting policy, institutional, or governance assessments and producing technical reports. Proficiency in supporting multi-stakeholder consultations and collaborating with government and development partners is necessary. Strong analytical, facilitation, and technical writing skills are vital, alongside a good understanding of food systems transformation and sustainable agrifood systems. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications is also required.

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