Organizational Setting

The position is located at the FAO Representation in Georgia. The main aim of the FAO country offices, which are headed by the FAO Representative, is to assist governments to develop policies, programmes and projects to achieve food security and to reduce hunger and malnutrition, to help develop the agricultural, fisheries and forestry sectors, and to use their environmental and natural resources in a sustainable manner.

Reporting Lines

The incumbent will work under the overall responsibility of the FAO Representative and the Assistant FAO Representative in Georgia and under direct supervision of the National Project Coordinator, also in in close collaboration with the staff of FAO Representation and projects, under the direct technical supervision from the international consultant on rural development.

Technical Focus 

The technical focus of the assignment is focused on supporting the implementation of the Agriculture and Rural Development Strategy of Georgia 2021-2027 through increased competitiveness of agriculture and enhanced inclusiveness in rural development policies.

A second focus of the assignment, closely related to the above mentioned one, is related to the support to the local LIGs in the preparation of their Community Development Action Plans (activity from 1.1. to 1.6).

Tasks and responsibilities

•    Support the project team with technical advice on rural development issues
•    Take part in a Policy Working Group (PWG) on rural development and provide support in the preparation and implementation of PWG meetings
•    Support the maintenance of the network with other projects, UNDP and other donors’ initiative on rural Development for the coordination of the RD ongoing activities in Georgia
•    Collect data on existing rural development initiatives and activities in Georgia and analyse experiences from other countries with a specific focus on the EU Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) Pillar II and the measure of the EU Regional Development Policy supporting rural areas
•    Oversee the implementation of the pilot initiatives promoted within the project and extract policy options for policy making
•    Support the preparation of policy briefs and analysis providing empirical evidence for successful models of rural development
•    Perform other duties as required

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements

•    University Degree in Agroeconomy, Economy, Social Science or related field
•    5 years of relevant experience in rural development at the national or international level
•    Working knowledge of English and Georgian
•    National of Georgia or resident of the country with valid work permit

FAO Core Competencies

•    Results Focus
•    Teamwork
•    Communication
•    Building Effective Relationships
•    Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement

Technical/Functional Skills

•    Communication skills to facilitate dialogue within the MEPA, MRDI and amongst different ministries.
•    Good technical skills and experience in Rural Development related aspects, including institution building
•    Availability to work overtime when required