Organizational Setting
The main aim of the FAO country offices, which are headed by an FAO Representative, is to assist Governments for developing 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 National Project Coordinator will work under the overall supervision of the FAO Representative in the Republic of Tajikistan and Project Lead Technical Officer (LTO)/ Senior Animal Production Health Officer (REU) in close collaboration with the FAO Tajikistan Office.
Technical Focus
Under the overall supervision of the FAO Representative in Tajikistan (FAOR), and under the technical guidance and direct supervision of the Lead Technical Officer based in the REU office and in close collaboration with the national team, the National Project Specialist will support the implementation GCP/TAJ/028/IFA - the FAO component of the “Community-based Agriculture Support Programme “Plus” (CASP+) Project with the following specific tasks:
Tasks and responsibilities
• Assist to Lead Technical Officer in the implementation of project activities, including the timely development and execution of quarterly project plans (procurement, recruitment, travel, communication, activities, budgetary and other components);
• Assist in preparing reports and other documentation; and address administrative issues to ensure the successful implementation of the project on the ground.
• Assist senior colleagues in liaising with stakeholders and beneficiaries regarding project implementation.
• Assist in organizing and/or facilitating project meetings and training sessions (as needed).
• Assist Lead Technical Officer and Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist for organizing monitoring missions related to project activities.
• Travel to relevant project meeting, training, and implementation sites to facilitate project implementation and prepare short mission reports with clear findings and recommendations.
• Assist in monitoring the implementation of project activities and submit short monthly reports summarizing key activities and implementation issues.
• Assist in maintaining the project schedule by managing calendars for project personnel and arranging meetings, conferences, online meetings, and travel.
• Assist in the preparation of progress reports (monthly, quarterly, and annual).
• Participate in relevant meetings, workshops, and events, assist facilitating discussions or delivering presentations on project activities where relevant.
• Undertake any other duties assigned by the Budget Holder and/or LTO.
• Perform any other duties as required.
CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING
Minimum Requirements
• Master’s degree in Agricultural Economics, Agriculture, Economics, or a related discipline from a recognized university
• At least 5 years of relevant professional experience in the management or coordination of international development projects in agriculture, rural development, or related.
• Working knowledge of English, Tajik and Russian
• National of Tajikistan 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
• Strong computer literacy including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and digital communication tools.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Strong analytical and report writing skills, including preparation of technical and progress reports.
• Experience working with international organizations, UN agencies or international NGOs.
• Experience coordinating with national stakeholders including government institutions and development agencies.
• Knowledge of agricultural development and rural development in Tajikistan.
• Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.
• Understanding of gender considerations in agricultural development programmes.
Selection Criteria
• Knowledge of the agricultural sector and institutional landscape in Tajikistan.
• Experience in coordinating agriculture or rural development projects.
• Demonstrated experience in stakeholder engagement and project coordination.
• Experience working with international organizations or donor-funded projects.
• Strong coordination, leadership and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of digital technologies applied to agriculture would be an asset.
• Private sector experience in agriculture or agribusiness would be an advantage.