Fishery Officer (Data Coordination)
Organizational Context
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is committed to environmental sustainability. The Fisheries and Aquaculture Division (NFI) promotes responsible management of aquatic food systems. The General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM), an RFMO under FAO, aims to conserve, manage, and sustainably develop marine living resources and aquaculture in the Mediterranean and Black Seas. Data is crucial for GFCM's mandate, supporting scientific assessments, management advice, and monitoring. The GFCM Data Team is vital for effective data collection, validation, quality assurance, analysis, and dissemination, enhancing the GFCM's capacity for evidence-based decision-making and regional cooperation.
Job Purpose
This role supports the GFCM's mandate by leading the development and improvement of fisheries and aquaculture data management systems and processes. The incumbent will ensure timely collection, integration, quality assurance, analysis, use, and dissemination of data according to GFCM requirements and workplans. Key responsibilities include providing technical leadership on data governance, supporting evidence-based decision-making, enhancing data interoperability, fostering collaboration with members and partners, and promoting data quality, harmonization, accessibility, and transparency. The position aims to strengthen GFCM's capacity for robust scientific evidence and informed decision-making in fisheries and aquaculture management.
Responsibilities
Oversee data processes, conduct data analysis, and produce statistical outputs, indicators, and data products to support GFCM's scientific advice, policy-making, and programme implementation. Foster collaboration with members, partners, and other RFMOs on data issues. Manage the GFCM Data Collection Reference Framework (DCRF) and the System for the Promotion of Aquaculture in the Mediterranean (SIPAM), supporting scientific and compliance committees and capacity development. Support the GFCM Secretariat team in overseeing data collection, management, analysis, and dissemination, advising the Executive Secretary and reporting to GFCM membership. Reinforce data workflows, standards, protocols, and tools for the entire data lifecycle, ensuring proper documentation for transparency and institutional knowledge. Coordinate the specification, testing, and improvement of data platforms and systems, ensuring harmonization and interoperability. Inform the development and maintenance of robust, efficient, and secure data management systems and databases. Apply and develop data quality assurance and control procedures, including automated validation, and coordinate data integration and curation from various sources. Facilitate data access, exchange, and dissemination, responding to data requests and providing technical advice to strengthen national data systems. Promote best practices and innovation in data management and contribute to strategic planning. Support the implementation of GFCM data governance frameworks. Design and deliver training on data standards, tools, and methodologies. Assist in resource mobilization and project development related to data systems and analytics.
Work Experience
Five years of relevant experience in fisheries or bio-statistics, focusing on data processes, including national, regional, or international data collection and management. Experience in more than one work location or area, particularly in field positions, is desirable.
Skills
Experience in fisheries/aquaculture statistics, supporting data collection, management, analysis, and dissemination for decision-making. Expertise in designing and implementing data quality assurance and control frameworks, including automated validation. Proficiency in data analytics, statistical modelling, indicator development, data visualization, and producing evidence-based information products. Extensive knowledge of diverse data management systems, databases, and tools. Proven ability to provide technical assistance on data processes to various recipients. Demonstrated ability to liaise with governments and organizations, offering technical support and advice. Experience in leading multidisciplinary teams and advising senior officials. Familiarity with the role of Regional Fisheries Management Organizations in data collection and reporting.