Digital Agriculture Specialist (Technical Project Management)
Organizational Context
The Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia (REU) leads FAO's regional efforts in food security, agriculture, and rural development. It identifies and implements priority activities, ensuring a multidisciplinary approach and aligning with Headquarters' strategic response. Established in 2020, the specialized Digital Agriculture team catalyzes agricultural transformation across Europe and Central Asia, supporting key initiatives like FAO Digital Villages and the AgriTech Observatory. The team was recognized as FAO Team of the Year in 2023.
Job Purpose
The incumbent will support the implementation of FAO’s Strategic Framework, specifically focusing on Digital Agriculture (BP5). This involves providing analytical and technical support for research, assessments, studies, and the formulation of strategies, programs, and projects aimed at advancing the digitalization of food, agriculture, and rural areas. The role is crucial for leveraging digital technologies to enhance agricultural practices and outcomes within the region, contributing to sustainable development and improved livelihoods.
Responsibilities
Provide technical support by developing analytical frameworks, assessment methodologies, and technical guidance for evidence-based policies and strategies. Conduct assessments and analyses of agrifood sector digitalization, contributing to reports and policy recommendations. Offer technical input for programmatic documents like Country Programming Frameworks and concept notes, responding to requests on digital agriculture. Contribute to the Digital Villages Initiative and other regional projects to promote digital technology adoption for improved agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods. Assist countries in designing e-government systems for the agrifood sector. Stay updated on emerging digital agriculture technologies and best practices. Support the technical coordination of digital agriculture projects from design to closure, ensuring adherence to scope, timeline, and budget. Assist in day-to-day project operations, including tracking, budget monitoring, and procurement. Provide technical input to consultants and partners, ensuring quality of deliverables. Support the preparation of project progress and donor reports. Liaise with government counterparts, FAO offices, donors, and other partners. Support resource mobilization by identifying funding opportunities and developing proposals. Assist in developing knowledge products and communication materials. Organize and deliver regional and national events and workshops.
Work Experience
At least 3 years of relevant experience in project management, digital transformation of the agrifood sector, or agriculture/rural development projects. Experience in management of development projects, including work planning, budget monitoring, procurement, recruitment, and stakeholder coordination is essential. Familiarity with emerging digital agriculture technologies and experience in research and analysis are also required.
Skills
Key competencies include Results Focus, Teamwork, Communication, Building Effective Relationships, and Knowledge Sharing. Essential technical skills involve extensive experience in managing development projects, including work planning, budget monitoring, procurement, recruitment, and stakeholder coordination. Familiarity with emerging digital agriculture technologies (e.g., precision agriculture, AI, IoT) and experience in digital agriculture/transformation projects are crucial. Proficiency in research and analysis, including preparing assessments, reports, and policy recommendations, is also required.