Technical Adviser
Ensure timely delivery and quality of project implementations related to GCF.
Overview
Ensure timely delivery and quality of project implementations related to GCF.
You have:
- Advanced degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Economics, Finance, International Development/Relations, Environmental Science or related fields from recognized and reputable institutions
- Seven years of relevant experience in project or programme management, including experience in capacity development related to climate change development, climate finance and development of national plans and strategies
- Full proficiency/Working knowledge of English
Organizational Setting
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) contributes to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda through the FAO Strategic Framework by supporting the transformation to more efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable agrifood systems, for better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life, leaving no one behind.
The Subregional Office for the Pacific Islands (SAP) is responsible for developing, promoting, overseeing, and implementing strategies and projects that drive the transformation of food, agriculture, and rural development. It also fosters and maintains relationships with subregional institutions. The Subregional Office is a subsidiary of the FAO Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific (RAP).
Reporting Lines
The Technical Adviser will be under the overall supervision of the FAO Subregional Coordinator (SRC) for the Pacific and will directly report to the project’s Lead Technical Officer (LTO) / Natural Resource Officer. He/she will liaise with other technical, operational and administrative colleagues.
Technical Focus
The Technical Adviser (TA) will ensure that the project deliveries are done on time with quality and in consultation with LTO. He/she will manage the daily implementation, management, and technical supervision of the project.
Key focus areas include the development of a GCF Readiness Needs Assessment (RNA), capacity building for the National Designated Authority (NDA) and relevant country stakeholders on areas relevant to GCF objectives, development of a Country Programme in accordance with GCF guidelines, and the development of co-designed innovative climate solutions supported by the prefeasibility studies to inform the development of a Concept Note for Samoa.
Tasks and responsibilities
• Ensure project deliveries are done on time and manage project implementation to ensure timely production of all relevant outputs at an acceptable standard. • Provide direct advice on the Green Climate Fund (GCF) to FAO personnel, counterparts and partners at all levels. • Prepare and regularly update the project implementation plans, in consultation with the relevant FAO technical team, National Designated Authority (NDA) and Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (MAF). • Participate in multidisciplinary teams to assist with the preparation of key project deliverables, including the GCF Readiness Needs Assessment (RNA) and Country Programme, in line with GCF guidelines. • Facilitate the preparation of relevant baseline studies, analyses, evaluations and assessments to support development of the Country Programme. • Coordinate the compilation of all relevant documentations in preparation of the Country Programme. • Coordinate inputs and responses to comments on GCF Country Programme and Concept Note. • Design and deliver training programmes, in collaboration with other project consultants, including the development of supporting materials and resources. • Support the selected Service Provider to deliver the visioning and co-design processes, ensuring they are technically sound, inclusive, and delivered on time and within budget • Review all GCF-related project documentation for quality and consistency with GCF and FAO requirements • Provide comments and suggestions for revision of project outputs. • Liaise with relevant FAO (and other organizations, as needed) to obtain guidance and advice on specific elements of Concept Note • Coordinate with all project stakeholders, including government agencies, communities and private sector actors. • Ensure the timely delivery of project reports to FAO and the Project Steering Committee. • Respond to ad-hoc questions and perform other duties as required.
CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING
Minimum Requirements
• Advanced degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Economics, Finance, International Development/Relations, Environmental Science or related fields from recognized and reputable institutions • Seven years of relevant experience in project or programme management, including experience in capacity development related to climate change development, climate finance and development of national plans and strategies • Full proficiency/Working knowledge of English
FAO Core Competencies
• Results Focus • Teamwork • Communication • Building Effective Relationships • Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement
Technical/Functional Skills
• Extensive experience minimum of 10 years in providing technical advice in relation to GCF investments. • Demonstrated project management experience. • Demonstrated knowledge of GCF modalities and procedures, including requirements and guidelines (vii) • Demonstrated engagements with Country Strategic Frameworks, and/or related document development. • Demonstrated experience with the Green Climate Fund’s investment criteria including the development of project Concept Notes/Funding Proposals to the GCF and other donor agencies. • In-depth understanding of climate finance issues, at the international level and regional scales, with knowledge of the current climate finance architecture of the Green Climate Fund. • Experience working with a cross-section of stakeholders, including senior government officials in small and vulnerable states (SIDS and LDCs) • Experience in working in Samoa or Pacific region will be an advantage • Strong writing skills and language proficiency • Work experience in more than one location or area of work
Potential interview questions
| Describe a time when you had to manage a project under tight deadlines. What strategies did you use? | This question assesses your project management skills and ability to work under pressure. | Provide a clear example that highlights your planning and organizational skills. |
| Can you explain your experience with the Green Climate Fund and how it relates to this position? | The interviewer wants to gauge your specific knowledge of GCF and its operational procedures. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| How do you engage stakeholders in the project co-design process? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| What are the key elements you would involve in developing a GCF Readiness Needs Assessment? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| Describe a training program you designed. What were its goals and how did you measure its success? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| Tell us about a time you faced challenges while working with government agencies. How did you overcome them? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| How would you ensure that project outputs align with GCF and FAO requirements? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| What innovative climate solutions have you worked on in the past? Describe the impact. | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |