Banana Value Chain Specialist (Decent Work and Occupational Health & Safety)

Organizational Context

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) supports sustainable agrifood systems for better production, nutrition, environment, and life. The Markets and Trade Division (EST) analyzes global agricultural commodity markets and trade, providing information and technical support. It houses the World Banana Forum (WBF), which promotes collaboration among banana sector stakeholders. Working Group 3 (WG03) focuses on decent work in banana supply chains, and the Banana Occupational Health and Safety Initiative (BOHESI) is a pilot project addressing safety in banana-producing countries.

Job Purpose

The Banana Value Chain Specialist will support and contribute to the monitoring, implementation, and reporting of the Banana Occupational Health and Safety Initiative (BOHESI). This role also involves supporting the broader portfolio of decent work initiatives within the World Banana Forum’s Working Group 3 on Labour Rights (WG03). The specialist will play a key role in advancing efforts to improve occupational health and safety and promote decent work conditions throughout the global banana supply chain, aligning with FAO's strategic objectives.

Responsibilities

Support the World Banana Forum’s Working Group 3 on Labour Rights (WG03) in promoting decent work, gender equality, and freedom of association across global banana supply chains, including implementing work plans and reporting. Assist in the implementation, monitoring, and reporting of the Banana Occupational Health and Safety Initiative (BOHESI), including capacity development and pilot projects in banana-producing countries. Provide technical support for developing and disseminating occupational health and safety tools, manuals, and training materials, incorporating gender-sensitive approaches. Support Training-of-Trainers (ToT) programs and capacity development for producers, workers, and institutions. Coordinate and provide technical backstopping for project implementation related to occupational health and safety, labour rights, and socio-economic sustainability. Conduct research and analysis on policies, trends, and best practices in these areas, including responsible business conduct and due diligence. Perform other technical and organizational tasks as required by the WBF Secretariat.

Work Experience

At least one year of relevant professional experience in occupational health and safety, labour rights, or capacity development. Experience in developing and delivering training materials and capacity development activities, including Training-of-Trainers (ToT) programmes, is essential. Knowledge of international frameworks and standards related to OHS and labour rights is also required.

Skills

Proficiency in Results Focus, Teamwork, Communication, Building Effective Relationships, and Knowledge Sharing. Experience in occupational health and safety (OHS), labour rights, decent work, gender equity, or public health programmes. Familiarity with international OHS and labour rights frameworks. Ability to develop and deliver training. Knowledge of the fruit sector and FAO's working environment is advantageous. Strong attention to detail, communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills. Ability to manage multiple projects, write reports, and work under pressure. Working knowledge of Spanish is required; English knowledge is desirable.

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