GCF Concept Note Developer
Organizational Context
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) supports the transformation to efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems. As a specialized agency, FAO leads international efforts to defeat hunger and malnutrition. FAO country offices assist governments in developing policies and programs to achieve food security, reduce hunger, and promote sustainable use of natural resources. The "Scaling-up Public-Private Co-Investments for Climate Action in Agrifood Systems" project in Zambia aims to enhance climate resilience by fostering public-private partnerships and improving readiness to attract climate finance for agrifood systems.
Job Purpose
The incumbent will lead the development of a comprehensive Green Climate Fund (GCF) Concept Note, utilizing the official GCF template. This document will be prepared based on validated project idea notes generated through the Readiness Programme. The primary objective is to produce a submission-ready concept note that effectively articulates a priority project idea for climate action in agrifood systems, advancing it to the next stage for potential GCF funding. This role requires close collaboration with national authorities and private sector proponents to ensure alignment with national priorities and GCF requirements.
Responsibilities
The role involves leading the development of a full GCF Concept Note for a priority project idea, ensuring it meets GCF requirements and is ready for submission. This includes providing technical expertise on GCF criteria, coordinating stakeholder consultations for validation and country ownership, and reviewing project idea notes. The incumbent will identify and address data gaps, develop the project's theory of change and results framework, and ensure alignment with national development priorities. Drafting the concept note will cover project summary, background, description, expected impact, financing, implementation arrangements, and safeguards. An indicative budget and financing structure will be prepared in coordination with relevant teams. The draft concept note will be validated and revised based on feedback, and support will be provided for follow-up consultations with the GCF.
Work Experience
A minimum of 10 years of experience in climate finance and project/programme design, planning, and monitoring is essential. This experience should be complemented by a strong understanding of international climate finance mechanisms, particularly the Green Climate Fund (GCF).
Skills
Key skills include demonstrated knowledge of the GCF project cycle and requirements, and experience in developing GCF Concept Notes or similar project documents. Proficiency in articulating project theories of change and results frameworks is crucial. Practical experience in climate change adaptation/mitigation, agrifood systems, and private sector engagement, particularly in Zambia or Africa, is highly valued. Strong analytical, research, report writing, and communication skills are necessary, along with the ability to work independently and collaboratively. Specialized training in Climate Finance or Project Design is an advantage.