Specialist on National Partnerships (Academia, NGOs, and Civil Society)
Support development of partnerships with academia and civil society
Overview
Support development of partnerships with academia and civil society
You have:
- University degree (Advanced/Masters level is considered an asset) in Agriculture, Social or Political Sciences, Economics, Public Administration, International Relations or a related field relevant to the work of the Organization
- At least three years of relevant experience in development work and/or interacting with social partners and with governments, international organisations, academic and research institutions, civil society and the private sector
- Working knowledge of Russian and English
- National or Resident of Russian Federation
Organizational Setting
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) contributes to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda through FAO’s Strategic Framework by supporting the transformation to MORE efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable agri-food systems, for better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life, leaving no one behind.
The position is located at FAO’s Liaison Office with the Russian Federation (LOR) in Moscow. The incumbent works under the overall supervision of Director, LOR, and reports directly to the Liaison Officer. The incumbent works in close cooperation with all other LOR employees.
The FAO Liaison Office with the Russian Federation advises and assists in the development and implementation of FAO policies and programmes by facilitating communication and cooperation between FAO and the Government of the Russian Federation and the private sector, civil society and academia, as well as between FAO and international organizations based in the Russian Federation.
Reporting Lines
The incumbent reports to the Liaison Officer, and works in close coordination with Liaison Office personnel, national organizations, and other UN agencies. The incumbent operates independently and takes decisions on work priorities. Supervision received is focused on the quality of work outputs, in particular the meeting of timelines and the quality of advice given to contacts/partners. The incumbent works closely with a wide range of colleagues in LOR and external clients, promoting effective and efficient partnerships.
Technical Focus
Promotion of effective and efficient partnerships.
Tasks and responsibilities
The incumbent performs the following functions: • Assist in the promotion, identification and development of strategic partnerships and collaborations between FAO and Russian academia (incl. universities), NGOs, and the civil society under FAO’s new Strategic Framework 2022-2031 • Assist in the review and monitoring of FAOLOR’s existing partnerships and collaborations with academia, following up and maintaining effective, productive, and harmonious relationships with partnership focal points in technical divisions at HQ/decentralized offices and external partners • Support in the implementation mechanisms for strengthening FAO staff capacities in developing effective partnerships with academia, NGOs and civil society • Contribute to the engagement of Russian academia, NGOs and civil society in FAO events • Support in the implementation mechanisms for increasing FAO visibility and knowledge to potential new partners in academia, NGOs and civil society • Support in the monitoring and review of ongoing partnerships and collaboration activities and outcomes for reporting through various channels • Assist in the analysis on partnership-related initiatives in order to mainstream them in national policy dialogues • Support LOR’s work on Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) in Russia, liaising and following up on field activities on GIAHS • Provide day-to-day support to LOR including event planning, follow-ups of the implementation of letters of agreements and daily communications with NGO, academia, and research institutions’ focal points • Any other related activities, as requested
CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING
Minimum Requirements
• University degree (Advanced/Masters level is considered an asset) in Agriculture, Social or Political Sciences, Economics, Public Administration, International Relations or a related field relevant to the work of the Organization • At least three years of relevant experience in development work and /or interacting with social partners and with governments, international organisations, academic and research institutions, civil society and the private sector • Working knowledge of Russian and English • National or Resident of Russian Federation
FAO Core Competencies
• Results Focus • Teamwork • Communication • Building effective relationship • Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement
Technical/Functional Skills
• Work experience in more than one location or area of work, particularly in field positions is desirable • Extent and relevance of experience in a field relevant to the work of the Organization and development work, interacting with social partners and with governments, international organisations, academic and research institutions, civil society, and the private sector • Depth of knowledge of FAO’s programmes and priorities is considered an asset
Selection Criteria
• All candidates should possess computer/word processing skills. • Your application will be screened based on the information provided in your Curriculum Vitae. We strongly recommend that you ensure that the information is accurate and complete including employment record, academic qualifications and language skills.
Potential interview questions
| Can you describe a time you successfully built a partnership in your previous roles? | This question assesses your experience and skills in relationship management. | Provide a specific example that highlights your strategic approach and the outcome of the partnership. |
| What strategies would you employ to engage civil society effectively? | The interviewer wants to understand your strategic thinking in stakeholder engagement. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| How do you handle conflicts in partnerships? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| How do you keep up with trends in agricultural development and civil society engagement? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| Describe your experience working with academic institutions. | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |