National Ecosystem of Support Mapping Specialist

Organizational Context

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is dedicated to transforming agrifood systems for greater efficiency, inclusivity, resilience, and sustainability to improve global food security and nutrition. Through its Scalable Success Model (SSM) initiative, FAO assists countries in advancing their National Food Systems Pathways by enhancing evidence, policy alignment, stakeholder collaboration, and investment planning. In Kiribati, FAO is actively supporting the government in conducting a National Food Systems Needs Assessment, mapping the ecosystem of support, developing a national Stakeholders' Action Plan (2026–2030), and organizing a National Food Systems Dialogue.

Job Purpose

This role will provide essential technical support for the Ecosystem of Support Mapping initiative, focusing on identifying, documenting, and analyzing food system stakeholders, ongoing initiatives, established partnerships, coordination mechanisms, and support services that contribute to the implementation of Kiribati's National Food Systems Pathway. The Specialist will be responsible for producing the Ecosystem of Support Mapping report and related technical documentation. Additionally, the role involves contributing technical expertise to the development of the Stakeholders' Action Plan (2026–2030) and assisting in the preparation and documentation of the National Food Systems Dialogue, ensuring effective coordination and information dissemination.

Responsibilities

The Specialist will review project documentation and technical guidance, preparing an Inception Report detailing the methodology, workplan, and schedule. They will participate in FAO inception meetings, documenting discussions and integrating feedback into work plans. Applying the Scalable Success Model methodology, the Specialist will compile, organize, and analyze information on food system initiatives, stakeholders, partnerships, and coordination mechanisms. Key tasks include preparing and revising the Ecosystem of Support Mapping Report, providing technical input for the Stakeholders' Action Plan (2026–2030), and preparing materials for the National Food Systems Dialogue. The role also involves supporting the coordination of dialogue activities, documenting discussions and recommendations, preparing a summary report, and ensuring recommendations are incorporated into project outputs. An Assignment Completion Report summarizing activities and outcomes will also be required.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of relevant professional experience is required, specifically in areas such as stakeholder engagement, institutional analysis, partnership coordination, food systems, or development planning. Experience in undertaking stakeholder, institutional, or ecosystem assessments and preparing technical reports is also necessary. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications is expected.

Skills

Essential skills include strong analytical, coordination, and technical writing abilities, with a good understanding of food systems transformation, stakeholder engagement, and multi-sectoral coordination. Demonstrated experience in stakeholder mapping, institutional analysis, and partnership coordination is crucial. The ability to compile, analyze, and synthesize information from multiple sources is required. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications is necessary. Desirable skills include experience supporting stakeholder coordination initiatives and familiarity with FAO or UN program implementation modalities. Previous professional experience in Kiribati or other Pacific Island countries is advantageous.

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