Senior Capacity Development Officer (E-Learning and Agricultural Information)
Organizational Context
The Partnerships and UN Collaboration Division (PSU) at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy, is responsible for strengthening strategic partnerships with UN agencies and non-state actors. The Division leads FAO's engagement in UN Development System repositioning, develops capacities, and advocates for FAO's corporate positions supporting the Strategic Framework and SDGs. It manages FAO's e-learning programmes through the FAO e-learning Academy and promotes knowledge sharing on food security and nutrition.
Job Purpose
The incumbent will lead the FAO e-learning Academy and related agricultural information management systems and services. This involves managing the development and strengthening of capacity development policies and activities, monitoring e-learning program delivery, and overseeing capacity development initiatives with FAO technical units and external partners. The role requires assessing and improving e-learning methodologies, advising on emerging technologies, and proposing evidence-based adult learning solutions in food and agriculture. Developing strategies to enhance learning and knowledge sharing, building partnerships with stakeholders, and conducting results-based monitoring and evaluation of capacity development activities are key functions.
Responsibilities
Lead the FAO e-learning Academy team in designing, developing, and delivering specialized e-learning courses in collaboration with FAO units and external partners. Conduct outreach with academic and research institutions for program creation, curation, and curriculum design. Lead webinars, online learning events, and blended learning programs. Provide guidance and support for PSU’s global knowledge systems, including AGRIS, AGORA, and AGROVOC. Manage extra-budgetary projects for the e-learning Academy and agricultural information systems, including budget estimates and workplans. Act as contract manager for the learning management system (LMS) and specialized e-learning software. Provide reporting and outreach presentations on the FAO e-learning Academy and other PSU information systems.
Work Experience
Ten years of relevant experience in capacity development, including e-learning and/or ICT for development. Experience in more than one work location or area, particularly in field positions, is essential. Experience in programme/project formulation, fund-raising, and building partnerships with donors is required. Experience in developing and delivering multilingual e-learning courses related to food, agriculture, environmental sciences, and social sciences is necessary.
Skills
Proficiency in capacity development, adult learning, e-learning, and learning technologies. Demonstrated knowledge of computer software and IT for learning and knowledge exchange. Strong analytical and conceptual skills, with gender-sensitive and cross-cultural competency. Experience in organizing workshops, technical meetings, and managing multi-stakeholder platforms. Working knowledge of English (Level C) and intermediate knowledge of another official FAO language (Level B) are required. Knowledge of a second FAO official language (Level C) is an asset.