Local Technical Advisor - Pandemic Preparedness
Organizational Context
The Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia (REU) leads FAO’s response to regional priorities for food security, agriculture, and rural development. REU ensures a multidisciplinary approach, supports policy dialogue, strengthens regional partnerships, and oversees FAO programmes and projects in the region. This position is part of the "MAKE-READY" project, funded by the Pandemic Fund, which aims to enhance Kosovo's capacities for preventing, detecting, and responding to zoonotic disease threats through a One Health approach, improving pandemic preparedness.
Job Purpose
The Local Technical Advisor will support FAO in the effective planning, coordination, implementation, and reporting of project activities. The role involves providing technical expertise and advice in animal health, veterinary services, zoonotic disease prevention and control, and the One Health approach. The incumbent will act as the primary liaison between FAO, implementing entities, relevant institutions, and project partners to ensure the timely delivery of project outputs and contribute to strengthening national capacities for pandemic preparedness.
Responsibilities
Serve as the lead local technical expert and advisor for the project. Plan, organize, and implement project activities to achieve all project outputs. Conduct regular consultations with technical teams and the project management team on implementation aspects. Act as the primary focal point for liaison and coordination with the Food and Veterinary Agency, Ministries of Agriculture and Health, the World Bank, and other relevant authorities and stakeholders across human health, animal health, and environment sectors. Support the strengthening of multisectoral coordination mechanisms using a One Health approach. Develop and update annual project workplans in consultation with partners. Organize and conduct workshops, trainings, and meetings, preparing necessary technical materials. Draft Terms of Reference for Letters of Agreement with local partners and manage them as appropriate. Draft technical specifications for procurement of goods and services, contributing to tender processes. Draft Terms of Reference for recruiting local technical specialists.
Work Experience
At least five years of relevant working experience in implementing and coordinating projects related to animal health, veterinary services, One Health, zoonotic disease prevention and control, public health preparedness, or agricultural development programmes.
Skills
Results Focus, Teamwork, Communication, Building Effective Relationships, Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement. Working knowledge of Serbian is considered an asset.