GIAHS Agro-economic Specialist
Organizational Context
The Office of Climate Change, Biodiversity and Environment (OCB) addresses challenges of climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation. It coordinates on these issues, serves as a focal point for multilateral environmental agreements, and assists Members with food security, climate change, and environmental financing. OCB hosts the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) Programme, supporting FAO Members in developing and implementing GIAHS proposals and managing designated sites. The GIAHS Secretariat provides guidance and technical support, fostering partnerships for the Programme's expansion.
Job Purpose
The GIAHS Agro-economic Specialist will support the GIAHS Secretariat by developing practical tools, a comprehensive framework, and technical guidelines. The focus will be on enhancing the branding, informative labelling, marketing, and commercialization of products originating from Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) sites. This role aims to improve the economic viability and sustainability of these unique agricultural systems by strengthening their market presence and value addition, contributing to the conservation of biodiversity and the improvement of local livelihoods.
Responsibilities
Conduct consultations and interviews with stakeholders, national institutions, GIAHS communities, and the Scientific Advisory Group to gather data on value addition and the branding, labelling, marketing, and commercialization of GIAHS products. Consult with organizations like UNESCO and IUCN to gather relevant data and best practices. Complete literature reviews and assessments of technical documents. Collect, process, and analyze data from GIAHS sites to map current product branding, labelling, marketing, and commercialization status. Revise and strengthen reports on economic, institutional, and policy measures for GIAHS sustainability. Develop a comprehensive framework and technical guidelines for product branding, labelling, marketing, and commercialization. Prepare a policy brief on measures for GIAHS sustainability, biodiversity conservation, food security, and livelihood improvement. Participate in interview panels for affiliate personnel recruitment. Represent FAO at relevant meetings and conferences. Perform other related duties as required.
Work Experience
One to ten years of relevant professional experience in agricultural economics, agricultural development, or agribusiness, depending on the candidate's category (C, B, or A). Experience in developing substantive contributions and achievements in these areas is essential. Working knowledge of English is required.
Skills
Key competencies include Results Focus, Teamwork, Communication, Building Effective Relationships, and Knowledge Sharing. Desirable experience includes working in multiple locations, particularly field-based positions. Essential skills involve developing frameworks, technical guidelines, and tools for product branding, labelling, marketing, and commercialization. Experience in data collection, processing, and analysis related to agricultural products is crucial. Demonstrated ability to review technical documents, prepare reports, and policy briefs on value chains and market access is required. Experience in designing labelling or certification schemes and working with national institutions and local communities in rural development is beneficial. Strong analytical, drafting, and report-writing skills, along with the ability to work in multicultural environments, are necessary. Familiarity with FAO's GIAHS Programme is an asset. Proficiency in French or Spanish is also an asset.