Forest monitoring and policy specialist

Organizational Setting

For many years, FAO has provided technical support to Uganda through the UN-REDD programme, since 2023 the Aim4Forest programme is complementing those activities in the country. The support on Measurement, Reporting and Verification of forest-related anthropogenic emissions and removals resulted in the submission of emission reductions to the UNFCCC in 2020. FAO is supporting Uganda in improving its MRV system to cover national needs, and to allow the country to leverage carbon finance. Through AIM4Forests, FAO will support Uganda in assessing whether and how its National Forest Monitoring System can respond to requirements from the EU Deforestation Regulations and the UK’s Forest Risk Commodities regime. Furthermore, in 2024 work is planned to analyse policy coherence of the public expenditure, which requires the collection of local data and interviews with the Ministry. This consultancy will support the planned technical assistance to the government of Uganda provided by the National Forest Monitoring and REDD Teams. This position is located in the National Forest Monitoring team (NFM team), in FAO’s Forestry Division (NFO).

Reporting Lines

The specialist will report to the Forestry Officer MRV in the NFM team, under the overall supervision of the Team Leader, Senior Forestry Officer (NFO), in close collaboration FAO Uganda.

Technical Focus

FAO will support Uganda in assessing whether and how its National Forest Monitoring System can respond to requirements from the EU Deforestation Regulations and the UK’s Forest Risk Commodities regime. Furthermore, in 2024 work is planned to analyse policy coherence of the public expenditure, which requires the collection of local data and interviews with the Ministry. This consultancy will support the planned technical assistance to the government of Uganda provided by the National Forest Monitoring and REDD Teams.

Tasks and responsibilities

• Lead MRV work in Uganda in close collaboration with FAO/NFO HQ-based teams. • Supervise and coordinate GIS-MRV team in Uganda. • Document the global carbon market opportunities and requirements for financing. • Explore and inform stakeholders about potential carbon financing for Uganda. • Work closely with the MAFAP and the policy teams in Uganda on public expenditure analysis on forestry in Uganda. • Assist the HQ-based teams to improve the work in the country, and improve the relation with the National Forest Authorities, the relevant Ministry/ies and other relevant MRV stakeholders. • Support the NFM and REDD teams with the collection of local data and setting up interviews as required. • Assist with gap assessments and drafting of documents as required. • Present results of the MRV and REDD teams by organizing and facilitating information and technical workshops. • Take initiative about MRV work in Uganda by capturing emerging issues and adapting to the priorities of the government of Uganda. • Any other duties as required.

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements

• University degree in Forestry, Environmental science, or a related study. • At least five years of experience in the field of forest resources monitoring and assessment or forest management. • Working knowledge (Level C) of English is required. • National of Uganda

FAO Core Competencies

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

Technical/Functional Skills

• Experience in planning, monitoring and reporting in forestry. • Knowledge of National Forest Monitoring Systems. • Knowledge of Uganda’s REDD context and institutions (NFA, FSSD, etc) is an advantage. • Demonstrated ability to work under limited supervision and to take initiative. • Excellent command of written and spoken English.

Selection Criteria

• Experience in forest MRV and policy activities. • Knowledge of Uganda ’s REDD context and institutions (NFA, FSSD, etc) is an advantage. • Experience in coordination and planning. • Demonstrated ability to work under limited supervision and to take initiative.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• FAO does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview meeting, processing)
• Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted
• Please note that FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from an institution accredited/recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED), a list updated by the International Association of Universities (IAU) / United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The list can be accessed at http://www.whed.net/
• For additional employment opportunities visit the FAO employment website: http://www.fao.org/employment/home/en/
• Appointment will be subject to certification that the candidate is medically fit for appointment, accreditation, any residency or visa requirements, and security clearances.