Senior Partnerships Consultant
Organizational Context
The FAO Liaison Office with the United Nations in Geneva serves as a crucial link with the Swiss government, civil society, and international organizations. It leverages Geneva's extensive network of international bodies, member states, and NGOs to promote FAO's technical work and decisions in policy dialogues. The office also acts as a focal point for member states accredited to FAO from Geneva, fostering engagement and awareness.
Job Purpose
This role supports the Liaison Office's engagement with Swiss authorities and development actors, deepening collaboration with Swiss innovation and private sector ecosystems. A primary focus, approximately 80% of the time, is dedicated to leading the FAO partnership with the Swiss Food and Nutrition Valley (SFNV). This partnership aims to enhance agrifood system resilience and sustainability in low- and middle-income countries through innovation scaling, contributing to food security, nutrition, and livelihoods. A key initiative is the development of the Swiss-Global Innovation Scaling Partnership, a platform connecting Swiss and local expertise with field-based needs.
Responsibilities
The incumbent will serve as the project lead for the Swiss Global Innovation Scaling Partnership (FAO-SFNV partnership), facilitating dialogue between SFNV members, FAO units, and country offices. Responsibilities include engaging with the Swiss agrifood innovation ecosystem to secure partner support, providing technical assistance for partnership cooperation areas such as needs identification, matchmaking, fundraising, and solution deployment. The role involves developing and applying a monitoring and evaluation framework, managing partnership activities, timelines, and budgets, and ensuring effective results delivery. Additionally, the position will support the Liaison Office in strengthening linkages with the Swiss agrifood innovation ecosystem, promoting Swiss capabilities and fostering international partnerships, particularly for initiatives in the Global South.
Work Experience
A minimum of 10 years of relevant professional experience is required, encompassing project design and management, partnership development, innovation ecosystems, private sector engagement, resource mobilization, and international development cooperation.
Skills
Key skills include demonstrated experience in project and partnership management, strong stakeholder engagement abilities with governments, international organizations, research institutions, and the private sector. Experience in innovation, agrifood systems, and international development cooperation is essential. The role requires strong analytical and communication skills, with experience in resource mobilization and multi-stakeholder initiatives being an asset. A deep understanding of the Swiss Agrifood ecosystem and knowledge of an additional FAO official language are advantageous.