Senior Technical Officer (GEF International Waters & Chemicals And Waste Lead)

Organizational Context

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a leading partner of the Global Environment Facility (GEF), managing a substantial portfolio of projects focused on environmental sustainability. The Office of Climate Change, Biodiversity and Environment (OCB) within FAO spearheads engagement with the GEF and international environmental conventions. OCB supports member countries in addressing climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation, facilitating access to climate and environmental financing. The OCB GEF Coordination Unit specifically provides expertise in the GEF International Waters and Chemicals and Waste focal areas, enhancing FAO's capacity to assist countries with transboundary water and pollution challenges.

Job Purpose

This role provides strategic oversight and technical leadership for FAO's GEF programming in the International Waters and Chemicals and Waste focal areas. The Senior Technical Officer will drive global, regional, and national actions to mobilize resources and implement Multilateral Environmental Agreements. Responsibilities include leading FAO's GEF programming on transboundary water management, coastal and marine ecosystems, source-to-sea approaches, and areas beyond national jurisdiction. Additionally, the role covers chemicals and waste management, including pollution prevention, life-cycle management, plastics, hazardous substances, and pollution in supply chains, ensuring alignment with FAO's Strategic Framework and GEF policies.

Responsibilities

The Senior Technical Officer will lead the development, implementation, and evaluation of technical aspects for assigned GEF programs and projects within the International Waters and Chemicals and Waste focal areas. This includes reviewing documents, identifying priorities, and liaising with stakeholders. The role involves coordinating programs, assessing trends, and preparing impact evaluations. The officer will supervise the preparation of various written outputs, provide substantive support for meetings and conferences, and manage outreach activities, including training workshops. Field missions will be led, offering guidance to consultants and government officials. Advice will be provided on policy development and national protocols. Key functions include serving as the primary technical focal point for IW and C-W, liaising with the GEF Secretariat, coordinating FAO's global responsibilities, ensuring quality assurance of proposals, and leading the formulation and implementation of complex GEF projects. The officer will also contribute to GEF Integrated Programme approaches, provide updates and briefings, engage with FAO technical experts, build partnerships with external stakeholders, and support portfolio expansion strategies.

Work Experience

Extensive experience in international environmental policy, program management, and resource mobilization, particularly within the context of the Global Environment Facility (GEF). Proven experience in the International Waters and/or Chemicals and Waste focal areas is essential. Experience in developing and implementing complex environmental projects and working with diverse stakeholders, including governments and international organizations, is required.

Skills

Expertise in GEF policies, procedures, and programming cycles. Strong technical knowledge of International Waters issues (e.g., transboundary water management, marine ecosystems) and Chemicals and Waste issues (e.g., pollution control, waste management). Excellent leadership, strategic planning, and project management skills. Proven ability to engage effectively with international partners, governments, and civil society. Strong analytical, communication, and report-writing skills. Fluency in English is required; knowledge of other FAO languages is an asset.

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