Forestry Officer

Organizational context: The Forestry Division (NFO) leads FAO's work in promoting sustainable forest management and its contributions to poverty reduction, food security, and nutrition. It engages with members, civil society, and the private sector on forest policies, livelihoods, conservation, and climate change. The Division also disseminates information on global forest resources and forest products. The EU Forest Governance and Value Chains Programme (FGVP), implemented by NFO, supports Forest Partnerships between the EU and partner countries, focusing on sustainable forest management and value chains through innovative investment and finance models.

Job purpose: This role provides comprehensive technical and policy expertise to support the planning, development, and implementation of divisional programs, projects, products, and services aligned with FAO's Strategic Framework. The incumbent will lead and participate in multidisciplinary teams, develop technical frameworks, conduct research, and provide technical assistance to member nations and decentralized offices. Key functions include designing and implementing capacity development activities, promoting international cooperation, advocating best practices, and participating in resource mobilization efforts. The position specifically supports the FGVP by providing advisory services for Forest Partnerships, conducting strategic analysis of forest value chains, and guiding investment opportunities within the forest bio-economy.

Responsibilities:
Provide technical advisory services and backstopping for the implementation of Forest Partnerships and the development of sustainable forest value chains and investments under the FGVP. Conduct strategic and technical analysis of forest-related value chains to identify opportunities for value creation and job growth in partner countries. Support the development, funding, formulation, and implementation of field projects that align with FAO's policy standards and best practices. Offer effective support to FGVP implementation, including logistical coordination, monitoring of project resources and progress, and resolving operational issues. Lead assessments of markets and investment opportunities within the forest bio-economy. Provide and mobilize resources for technical support, capacity building, and mentoring for FGVP partners on business planning and sustainable business models. Guide capacity development for partners to access finance from national and international financial institutions. Contribute to the development of national or regional sustainable financing strategies. Prepare progress and terminal reports for stakeholders and donors. Represent the programme in international, regional, and national meetings, undertaking missions as needed to monitor progress and implement corrective actions. Collaborate with the FGVP Manager to align NFO activities with the FAO Strategic Framework.

Education:
Advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in business administration, public administration, economics, social science, political science, or a related field. Working knowledge (level C) of English and French is required.

Work

experience:
Seven years of relevant experience in project or programme management, administration, economics, or a related area. Experience in more than one location or area of work, particularly in field positions, is desirable. Experience in the Africa Region is also desirable.

Skills:
Proficiency in English and French (level C). Experience in administration, human resources, investments, access to finance, and management within a large international organization. Expertise in programme/project formulation, analysis, planning, and implementation. Knowledge of planning and budgetary processes and associated tools. Ability to provide competent advice on financial actions, human resource processing, procurement, and project cycle management, offering innovative solutions to complex operational problems. Intermediate knowledge (level B) of Spanish is desirable.

Required languages: English, French

Desired languages: Spanish