Natural Resources Management Specialist

Organizational Setting

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations established in October 1945 with the objective of eliminating hunger, improving nutrition and standards of living by increasing agricultural productivity. FAO contributes to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda through its 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. Accordingly, FAO complements the efforts of governments and technical agencies in programs for developing agriculture, forestry, fisheries, land and water resources. It also carries out research; provides technical assistance on projects in individual countries; operates educational programs through seminars and training centres; maintains information and support services, including keeping statistics on world production, trade, and consumption of agricultural commodities; and publishes a number of periodicals, yearbooks, and research bulletins. Headquarters is in Rome, Italy and the organization has more than 180 members with offices throughout the world.

The primary purpose of FAO country offices, led by an FAO Representative, is to support governments in formulating policies, programs, and projects aimed at achieving food security and reducing hunger and malnutrition. These offices work to enhance the agricultural, fisheries, and forestry sectors while ensuring the sustainable use of environmental and natural resources.

Reporting Lines

The incumbent will work under the overall supervision of the FAO Representation, and direct supervision of the Assistant FAO Representative (Programme), the technical supervision of the FAO Lead Technical Officer (LTO), and in liaison with the relevant FAO Technical Officers in the Subregional Office for Southern Africa (SFS) and Regional Office for Africa (RAF).  The incumbent will provide direct support to the implementation of field projects related to the development of Natural Resources Management and Climate Change Resilience.

Technical Focus

•     Sustainable Land Management
•     Integrated Water Resources Management
•     Forestry Management
•     Ecosystem Services
•     Climate Resilience, Mitigation and Adaptation

Tasks and responsibilities

The incumbent will perform the following duties:

•     Conduct situational analysis and literature review of climate change effect on Botswana socio economic activity and adaptation and mitigation needs
•     Conduct institutional capacity gaps in mainstreaming climate change mitigation and adaption
•     Profile Botswana current natural resources and climate-related policies, strategies, plans, reports and action plans conducting gap analysis in mainstreaming climate action.
•     Based on good practices develop guidelines for adoption of good practices by national institutions in ongoing projects and programmes.
•     Prepare an engagement plan with concerned agencies and stakeholders.
•     Assist in discussions to define strategic vision, objectives and targets of the Botswana Government Climate Change
•     Review risk management strategies related to fraud prevention and detection, current financial risk management tools including risk assessment, identification, mitigation and management strategies, reporting and monitoring, governance and oversight policies procedures
•     Evaluate the adequacy, effectiveness and sustainability of controls (both financial and non-financial) around the grant making processes.
•     Evaluate risk management systems and advise on enhancements to align with GCF requirements.
•     Prepare and submit reports on progress of sub programme’s implementation at national level as well as the final report,
•     Assist other existing agricultural development and social-economic programmes relevant to the natural resources management and climate change aspects that may bring collaborations and partnerships;
•     Support resource mobilization efforts by preparing concept notes; 
•     Perform duties as advised by the Budget Holder and the Lead Technical Officer in relation to the achievement of the project objectives.

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING:

Minimum Requirements

•     University degree in environmental science, natural resource management, forestry, climate change, development studies or a related field
•     Five (5) years of experience in natural resource management, particularly in the context of agricultural and forestry development or related field
•     Working knowledge (level C) of English 
•     National of Botswana 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

•     Experience working on projects in Southern Africa preferably in Botswana or similar contexts is desired.
•     Excellent English writing skills and consolidating complex information.
•     Working Experience within the UN will be an added advantage Good analytical, presentation and training skills.
•     Leading, engaging, empowering and an excellent team player. 
•     Demonstrated ability to work independently, handle multiple tasks, work under pressure and deliver assignments on time.