Climate Investment and Value Chain Economist
Organizational Context
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), supported by the Green Climate Fund (GCF), is implementing the CS-FOR project in the Kyrgyz Republic. This initiative focuses on promoting climate-resilient, low-carbon development through sustainable forest and rangeland management, climate investment, and green value chains. The project involves collaboration with national partners, including the Forestry Service, the Russian Kyrgyz Development Fund (RKDF), and the Community Development and Investment Agency (ARIS), with activities concentrated in specific regions.
Job Purpose
This role provides essential technical and analytical support to Component 3 of the CS-FOR project. The focus is on advancing climate-smart and green value-chain development. Key areas include conducting economic and market analysis, developing bankable business models for green finance, monitoring green investments, and enhancing financial literacy. The position also supports market access, certification processes, and the development of gender-responsive and socially inclusive businesses within the project's scope.
Responsibilities
The incumbent will support data collection and maintenance for economic, social, environmental, and gender results of green businesses and value chains, ensuring adherence to project monitoring tools and reporting requirements. Responsibilities include reviewing data quality from partners, contributing to progress reports, and providing operational support for capacity development activities. This involves preparing training materials, managing records, and integrating gender and social inclusion considerations. The role requires designing or adapting training materials on green investment, climate finance, market access, and value-chain monitoring, and supporting training delivery for project partners. Key tasks also include mapping and assessing climate-smart value chains, integrating gender-responsive analysis, identifying bottlenecks and opportunities, and providing guidance on business plan development. Technical support will be provided for financial modeling, cost-benefit analysis, investment planning, and risk assessment. The position will also contribute to green financial instruments, environmental and social screening, and promoting relevant national and international standards and certification systems.
Work Experience
A minimum of five years of relevant professional experience is required, encompassing economic analysis, green finance, agricultural or forestry value-chain development, business development, market assessment, investment planning, or access to finance. Experience in these areas is crucial for fulfilling the responsibilities of the role.
Skills
Essential skills include strong results focus, teamwork, and communication abilities. Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in building effective relationships and knowledge sharing. Technical expertise in value-chain analysis, market assessment, business planning, and investment appraisal is vital. Knowledge of green economy principles, climate finance, climate-resilient agriculture, and sustainable natural resource management is expected. Experience in financial modeling, cost-benefit analysis, feasibility assessment, and supporting rural enterprises and financial institutions is beneficial. The ability to design monitoring indicators and tools, apply gender-responsive approaches, and prepare analytical reports and training materials is also important. Good computer skills, including spreadsheet analysis and data management, are required. Previous experience with international organizations or development projects is an advantage.