The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is an international financial institution and a specialized United Nations agency dedicated to eradicating rural poverty and hunger. It does so by investing in rural people. IFAD finances programmes and projects that increase agricultural productivity and raise rural incomes, and advocates at the local, national and international level for policies that contribute to rural transformation.
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Organizational Setting The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is an international financial institution and a specialized United Nations agency dedicated to eradicating rural poverty and hunger. It does so by investing in rural people. IFAD finances programmes and projects that increase agricultural productivity and raise rural incomes, and advocates at the local, national and international level for policies that contribute to rural transformation. The Programme Management Department (PMD), under the leadership of an Associate Vice-President, is responsible for the overall programme of loans and grants of the Fund and is composed of five (5) regional divisions and the Operational Policy and Results Division (OPR).The Lead Regional Economist works under the overall strategic, policy and management guidance of the Associate Vice-President (AVP) and the direct supervision of the divisional Director. There is only one Lead Regional Economist in each regional division. Position specific:The position is located in Latin America and Caribbean Division (LAC) and supports the LAC team for the region. Job Role The Lead Regional Economist is an economic policy and strategy leader and knowledge builder in her/his region. Through crosscutting work, both in diversity of economic sub-specializations and across countries in the region and/or organization, s/he acts as a catalyst for the generation and use of economic data, analysis and knowledge within IFAD as well as with outside institutions. S/he is accountable for the delivery of IFAD services to the rural populations of the region by: (i) providing timely, authoritative and analytical advice to staff in appropriate forms to enhance the quality, relevance and effectiveness of the division's work and instruments, i.e. Country Strategic Opportunities Programmes (COSOPs), country strategies, investment projects, grants, policy dialogue, knowledge management, etc.; and (ii) developing and implementing strategies, systems and approaches to better integrate the different types of operations, allowing IFAD to enhance its value addition, scale of operations, and impact on poverty reduction in the region. Key Functions and Results The Lead Regional Economist: Leads the implementation of the quality support process. Working with the Divisional Director, Country Directors and the Portfolio Advisor, s/he ensures key divisional outputs (including for new investments, COSOPs, country briefs, and completion reports) meet IFAD quality standards. Key areas of focus include economic and financial analysis of project design reports, institutional arrangements of new investments and integration of scaling up mechanisms. S/he leads or participates in the formulation, organization and management of mandated programmes of economic analysis, including macroeconomic modelling and forecasting, and the formulation of possible economic strategies, policies and actions for adoption by the international community. The incumbent leads or participates in the identification of new or emerging development issues of potential concern to the international community, particularly those of a regional or global nature, and designs and develops programmes to address them. In close collaboration with the Lead/Senior Portfolio Advisor, supports the divisional director in strategic planning and programme oversight activities, country assessments, and resource allocation analysis. Leads policy dialogue at the regional level with regional bodies and entities with the aim of improving the livelihoods of smallholder farmers and the rural poor, provides authoritative advice to CDs on the design of country-specific policy dialogue processes, designs and manages sub-regional, regional and international policy dialogue that is relevant, and adds value to the work of the region at the country level, including interactions with other funding and technical assistance multilaterals and bilaterals. Liaises with counterparts in other regional divisions and works closely with divisional focal points (gender and youth, environment, rural finance, farmers' organizations, etc.) to provide timely advice and information on key issues in country policy dialogue to country teams (with particular emphasis on decentralized staff) through Country Programme Management Team meetings, participation in missions, and in response to direct requests, including helping identify relevant expertise within and outside of IFAD. Identifies major opportunities for strategic collaboration with multi-lateral and bilateral donors to better leverage IFAD's loan and grant operations. Leads the design of annual grant work plans and manages the grant portfolio, including creating and managing processes to facilitate the uptake of lessons learned and sharing these experiences with IFAD, its partners and policy makers. S/he conceives plans and manages expert group meetings, seminars and similar consultations that contribute to the finalization of the work and divisional outputs. Provides direct substantive support on development issues to intergovernmental bodies and regional commissions by offering strategic advice, giving technical guidance, and assisting in developing a consensus. Represents the organizational unit at international, regional and national meetings on development issues. Provides substantial support in the conceptualization and design of investment projects, ensuring they adequately reflect economic trends and knowledge regarding investments which would yield the highest development impact in a selected setting. Develops and maintains an overview of regional trends, and identifies and analyses crosscutting issues and results to generate inputs for strategic/programmatic documents and agendas at divisional and corporate levels, including medium-term plans, annual reports, IFAD communication materials, briefs, and presentations by IFAD senior management. Designs and manages an integrated Knowledge Management and South-South strategy and work plan, including the development of effective instruments by implementing a work program that covers analysis of macroeconomic trends and policy changes, including forecasting of key economic and social indicators and analysis of growth performance (including analysis of pro-poor growth policies). Prepares key inputs and works closely with the Portfolio Advisor on the overall preparation of the annual portfolio performance review report. Acts as a key member of staff for ensuring IFAD operations and country programmes meet the context and needs of each country, e.g. adapting programmes to fragile situations or conflict-affected states, setting and monitoring progress on performance indicators linked to graduation, etc. MANAGERIAL FUNCTIONS: The Lead Regional Economist is accountable for integrity, transparency, and equity in the management of IFAD resources, including People Management by supporting recruitment of technical specialists and technical leadership/capacity development, Resource Management by providing strategic and technical advice for programme development, and Knowledge and Content Management by ensuring that: (i) knowledge content within specialty/thematic areas is continuously updated and available through IFAD's intranet; (ii) best practices are continuously identified, documented and made available to clients and peers through the internet and Intranet; and (iii) appropriate and up-to-date information and learning tools are available.Position specific:The position is responsible for preparing and monitoring the implementation of the Regional Partnership and the Regional Replenishment Strategies. The Lead Regional Economist provides direction to staff under her/his supervision and supports their professional development, including: (i) support CDs with COSOP analytics, i.e. strategic fit between IFAD instruments, development finance flows and strategic partnerships for co-financing; (ii) support country teams with country strategic policy engagement, i.e. support articulation of a strategic policy agenda with clear objectives; and (iii) Quality assurance of the delivery of LAC PoLG IFAD12 and support to the articulation of transition scenarios.The LRE coordinates with the Global Engagement team of Global Engagement, Partnership and Resource Mobilization Division (GPR) on SSTC and KM related activities. Key Performance Indicators Assignments require the provision of authoritative economic expertise and technical leadership at the regional level. Lead Regional Economists define, propose and develop complex new programmes or policies for the Fund and represent the position of their region in intergovernmental and inter-organizational economic fora. Innovation is required in the adaptation and development of research methods to evolving technical and programmatic contexts. Work at this level is considered substantially complex and of critical concern to the Fund, as it promotes the economic and social development of its Member States, fosters intra-regional integration, and promotes international cooperation. In particular, analytical and advisory work requires in-depth identification and consideration of a full range of factors relevant to the examination and discussion of programme problems and policies in the solution of methodological problems or in the formulation of economic policy proposals and project recommendations.Errors would normally cause policy and project decisions and advice to be based on inaccurate economic analysis or an inadequate range of programme considerations that may result in failure of a project or could mislead policy-makers or national governments, which would damage the credibility of the Fund and the intended beneficiaries of projects or policies. Position specific:Expert knowledge of economic situation of the countries in LAC region and provision of tailored solutions specific to country's need is required. Working Relationships Working relationships of Lead Regional Economists involve the provision of authoritative economic advice and the negotiation and resolution of problems that arise in mission planning, project appraisal or the preparation of studies and reports. They typically serve as the Fund's senior regional economic experts and exercise wide professional latitude in contacts in their field(s), providing economic leadership and methodological guidance to management, national governments, development partners and other.In intergovernmental bodies, expert groups and other meetings, the Lead Regional Economist provides high-level expertise and recommendations for policy formulation and official conclusions in a consultative and advisory capacity; s/he also provides information regarding the organization's policies, and act as the representative of the organization. Contacts are maintained to identify and evaluate emerging developments. Position specific:The incumbent supports the development of collaboration program with international organizations in the region. Job Profile Requirements Organizational Competencies: Level 2:Building relationships and partnerships - Builds and maintains strategic partnerships internally and externallyCommunicating and negotiating - Acquires & uses a wide range of communication styles & skillsDemonstrating leadership - Leads by example; initiates and supports changeFocusing on clients - Contributes to a client-focused cultureLearning, sharing knowledge and innovating - Challenges, innovates & contributes to learning cultureManaging performance and developing staff - Manages wider teams with greater impact on others and on the organizationManaging time, resources and information - Coordinates wider use of time, information and/or resourcesProblem-solving and decision-making - Solves complex problems and makes decisions that have wider corporate impactStrategic thinking and organizational development - Staff in management and/or strategic leadership rolesTeam working - Fosters a cohesive team environment Education:Education includes Advanced university degree from an accredited institution listed on https://whed.net/home.php in Economics or related field is required (*):(*) Note: For internal candidates, this requirement will be assessed in line with the provisions set forth in IFAD's Human Resources Implementing Procedures. Experience:At least ten (10) years progressively responsible experience in the field of economics with International Financial Institutions, international NGOs, rural development/financial institutions, foundations or government services.Knowledge of LAC regions an asset. Languages:English (4 - Excellent)Spanish (4 - Excellent)Desirable: French or Arabic Skills: Policy dialogue: Know-how in the effective dialogue with ministries of finance, explaining lending terms and providing advice for debt managementProject financial management: Excellent know-how in project financial management, e.g. internal controls, rural investments, project audit and funds flows(Development) economics: Know-how relevant to specific role as economist, e.g. development economics, macro/micro-economic analysis, conducting of economic research and applied econometrics, etc.Economic analysis: Know-how in Programme/Project economic analysisTopical expertise - Economists: Expertise relevant to the specific role (e.g. For ethics office assistant, procedures outlined in the Code of Conduct, Discipline and Anti-harassment provisions of applicable rules and guidelines)Advocacy: Know-how in advocacy, to maintain and promote constructive dialogue around IFAD¿s vision to external actorsIFAD governance & mandate: In depth knowledge of IFAD`s governance structure, mandate, strategic priorities and technical workAnalytical skills: Outstanding ability to analyse and synthesize qualitative and/or quantitative information from a variety of sources and filter out key insights and recommendationsData management: Data collection, cleaning, transformation and consolidation; data-base architecture & development; data presentationRisk management (e.g. reputational): Identification and assessment of potential liabilities and risks in IFAD's activities, particularly vis-à-vis third parties; ability to handle risks via contingency and mitigation strategiesStakeholder management: Strong alignment capabilities and consultation skills, building on effective interactions and relationships with different stakeholders (e.g. for the co-creation of communication material with member states) and ability to build and maintain a strong network (e.g. with journalists, media outlets, etc.)Planning: Know-how in the planning of human, financial and material management of IFAD resourcesCorporate approach: Ability to bring in corporate vision and priorities into one's area of work (e.g. budgeting going beyond simple budgetary considerations, taking into account strategic priorities)Project/Programme mgmt (incl. coordination, design, development): Know-how in Project design and evaluation Other Information IFAD is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of ethnic, social or political background, colour, nationality, religion, age, gender, disability, marital status, family size or sexual orientation. Please be aware of fraudulent job offers. IFAD does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. Official communication from IFAD will always come from e-mails ending in @ifad.org.This position is included in IFAD internal reassignment exercise and advertised externally in parallel. Should a suitable staff member be identified during the reassignment exercise and the reassignment decision accepted, the recruitment process will be cancelled. In case no suitable candidate is identified through reassignment, the recruitment process will continue. This is how cinfo can support you in the application process for this specific position:Before you apply for this position: Improve your application documents by registering for a Job Application Support.When invited to the interview: Prepare for the interview by registering for a Job Application Support.For Swiss nationals who get invited to the first round in the selection process (written test, interview, assessment centre, etc.):Please let us know so that we can inform our HR partners from the respective organisation and the Swiss Government to increase your visibility: recruitment@cinfo.chBenefit from free interview preparation by registering for a Job Application Support. Interested in a career with multilateral institutions? Read more: Working with the United Nations Working with International Financial Institutions For Swiss nationals
Organizational Setting The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is an international financial institution and a specialized United Nations agency dedicated to eradicating rural poverty and hunger. It does so by investing in rural people. IFAD finances programmes and projects that increase agricultural productivity and raise rural incomes, and advocates at the local, national and international level for policies that contribute to rural transformation. The Programme Management Department (PMD), under the leadership of an Associate Vice-President, is responsible for the overall programme of loans and grants of the Fund and is composed of five (5) regional divisions and the Operational Policy and Results Division (OPR).The Programme Officer works under the overall policy and management guidance and direct supervision of a Country Director (P-4/P-5) or Country Director/Head of IFAD Multi-Country Office (CD/Head of MCO).The position is located in West and Central Africa Division (WCA), in Dakar, Senegal and the incumbent works under the direct supervision of Country Director/Head of MCO Dakar. Job Role The Programme Officer is responsible for coordinating programmes and/or projects within the assigned portfolio.Position specific: The Programme Officer provides support to country portfolios in the Dakar MCO (i.e., Cabo Verde, The Gambia, Guinea Bissau, Guinea Conakry, Mali, Mauritania, and Senegal). Key Functions and Results COUNTRY STRATEGY AND COUNTRY PROGRAMME SUPPORT: The Programme Officer provides a solid understanding of international practices and of IFAD's policies and procedures to ensure activities of a programme or project within her/his assigned portfolio enhance the related technical quality of IFAD activities within the relevant country, through effective programme (COSOP) and project (grants and loans) design, supervision, implementation, monitoring and evaluation (RIMS), reporting (PSR) and completion (PCR) activities. S/he also provides substantive contributions to the development of advice and technical guidance in support of sustainable government strategies, policies and programmes to improve agricultural development and rural poverty reduction. The Programme Officer is further accountable for capacity-building activities including identifying, analyzing, documenting, harmonizing and disseminating both national and local issues as well as conditions and best practices and lessons learned among partner development agencies. Capacity-building activities include coordinating meetings, workshops and seminars with project management teams, government, partners and other stakeholders. COUNTRY OFFICE SUPPORT: The Programme Officer is accountable for day-to-day administration and reporting in support of the Supervisor and for supervision of assigned Country Programme Associate/Assistant. In addition to human resources management, s/he has accountability for financial and material resources and related processes including managing contracts for services. S/he provides inputs to budget preparation and monitors expenditures, manages contract completion and certifies payments. SUPPORT TO PARTNERSHIP BUILDING: As a key PMD team member, the Programme Officer enhances IFAD's relationships and collaborations with in-country counterparts by identifying synergies and proposing coordinated strategies with multilateral/bilateral donors and civil society organizations involved in agricultural development and rural poverty reduction. S/he establishes and maintains counterpart contacts to promote programme and project collaboration and harmonization as well as identifies financing opportunities with other donors. POLICY DEVELOPMENT/KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT: The Programme Officer participates in relevant policy meetings and events of interest to IFAD's target groups and which involve the government, donors, and civil society, including NGOs, to develop an enabling environment for sustainable, pro-poor development. From an international best practices perspective, s/he analyzes evidenced based recommendations from projects to link the realities on the ground and the voices of the poor with the policies and programmes of the government. S/he contributes to IFAD's policy intelligence with regular updates and information exchange with her/his supervisor on relevant policy discussions and ensures a continuous knowledge flow with peers in accordance with the knowledge management mechanism in place. This will serve to enhance the empowerment of the rural poor and disadvantaged so that they can enter into partnerships at all levels of policy dialogue. MANAGERIAL FUNCTIONS: The Programme Officer is accountable for integrity, transparency, and equity in the management of IFAD resources.Position specific: The Programme Officer:Supports implementation of regional portfolio (RLO, Grants, etc.)Supports partnerships with bilateral/multilateral co-financiers, climate finance providers, and other strategic partnerships – including the private sector;Liaises with IFAD's Independent Office of Evaluation (IOE) and Research and Impact Assessment Division (RIA) on country evaluations and M&E support, i.e. Project Completion Reports (PCRs), the Annual Report on Results and Impact of IFAD Operations (ARRI) and the Report on IFAD's Development Effectiveness (RIDE). Key Performance Indicators The Programme Officer maintains the standards for IFAD's competence in development in her/his assigned portfolio. S/he has demonstrated technical expertise and credibility in portfolio management and creates the foundation for IFAD's capacity and reputation for programme delivery and enhances its recognition as a reliable development partner. S/he provides substantive support in the development of country strategy, project design, partnership building and policy development and the foundation for enhancing sustainable government strategies and policies to improve the livelihoods of the poor and other disadvantaged groups. Working Relationships In the context of programme development and delivery, the Programme Officer ensures the exchange of information, advocates for programme and policy enhancements and ensures consistency and reliability in the provision of development assistance to the government. In collaboration with other members of the UN country team, bi-lateral development agencies, NGOs and country programme counterparts, s/he establishes and maintains relationships and projects the image of IFAD as a credible/reliable partner striving for harmonization of development activities. Job Profile Requirements Organizational Competencies: Level 1:Building relationships and partnerships - Builds and maintains effective working relationshipsCommunicating and negotiating - Communicates effectively; creates understanding between self and othersDemonstrating leadership - Personal leadership and attitude to changeFocusing on clients - Focuses on clientsLearning, sharing knowledge and innovating - Continuously seeks to learn, shares knowledge & innovatesManaging performance and developing staff -Managing time, resources and information - Manages own time, information and resources effectivelyProblem-solving and decision-making - Demonstrates sound problem-solving and decision-making abilityStrategic thinking and organizational development - Personal influenceTeam working - Contributes effectively to the team Education:Education includes Advanced university degree from an accredited institution listed on https://whed.net/home.php in rural development, agriculture, economics, rural finance, development policy or related field is required (*):(*) Note: For internal candidates, this requirement will be assessed in line with the provisions set forth in IFAD's Human Resources Implementing Procedures. Experience:At least five (5) years of progressively responsible professional experience in rural development, agriculture, economics, rural finance, development policy or other job related fields. Experience in and knowledge of east Africa is an advantage. Languages:English and French (4 - Excellent)Desirable: Portuguese Skills: IFAD partners: Knowledge of IFAD's partners' functioning and mandate , such as the public sector (e.g. governments and policy, institutions and system), non-state actors (NGOs, CSOs, Foundations, etc.) and private sector actorsAnalytical skills: Outstanding ability to analyse and synthesize qualitative and/or quantitative information from a variety of sources and filter out key insights and recommendationsTime management: Adherence to deadlines under time constraints and pressure (e.g. to deliver governing body documents on time); ability to coordinate and manage complex workflows and in-house and external teamsInitiative and good judgment: High sense of proactive initiative-taking and good judgement (including on security matters)Interpersonal skills: Ability to deal patiently and tactfully with others (e.g. visitors, clients, callers, etc.), including senior individuals (e.g. high-level meeting participants)Verbal communication: Clear, succinct and convincing verbal communication; highly professional, balanced and diplomatic languageWritten communication: Clear, succinct and convincing written communication in the language needed for specific role; highly professional, balanced and diplomatic language (e.g. for drafting of position papers, briefings, etc.)Loans & grants: Know-how in designing loan and grant operations and managing loan and grant preparation processPolicy dialogue: Know-how in the representation of IFAD as a trusted and strategic partner, advocating and promoting IFAD's mandate and vision; effective consultations with IFAD counterparts - like ministries and governmental bodies at all administrative levels, donors, civil societyTopical expertise - Programme Mgmt for Agricultural Development: Expertise relevant to the specific role (e.g. For ethics office assistant, procedures outlined in the Code of Conduct, Discipline and Anti-harassment provisions of applicable rules and guidelines)Project/Programme mgmt (incl. coordination, design, development): Know-how in Project design and evaluation Other Information IFAD is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of ethnic, social or political background, colour, nationality, religion, age, gender, disability, marital status, family size or sexual orientation. Please be aware of fraudulent job offers. IFAD does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. Official communication from IFAD will always come from e-mails ending in @ifad.org.This position is included in IFAD internal reassignment exercise and advertised externally in parallel. Should a suitable staff member be identified during the reassignment exercise and the reassignment decision accepted, the recruitment process will be cancelled. In case no suitable candidate is identified through reassignment, the recruitment process will continue. This is how cinfo can support you in the application process for this specific position:Before you apply for this position: Improve your application documents by registering for a Job Application Support.When invited to the interview: Prepare for the interview by registering for a Job Application Support.For Swiss nationals who get invited to the first round in the selection process (written test, interview, assessment centre, etc.):Please let us know so that we can inform our HR partners from the respective organisation and the Swiss Government to increase your visibility: recruitment@cinfo.chBenefit from free interview preparation by registering for a Job Application Support. Interested in a career with multilateral institutions? Read more: Working with the United Nations Working with International Financial Institutions For Swiss nationals
Organizational Setting The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is an international financial institution and a specialized United Nations agency dedicated to eradicating rural poverty and hunger. It does so by investing in rural people. IFAD finances programmes and projects that increase agricultural productivity and raise rural incomes, and advocates at the local, national and international level for policies that contribute to rural transformation. The Programme Management Department (PMD), under the leadership of an Associate Vice-President, is responsible for the overall programme of loans and grants of the Fund and is composed of five (5) regional divisions and the Operational Policy and Results Division (OPR).Country Directors work under the strategic management, policy guidance, and direct supervision of the relevant Division Director. They also receive first-level operational support from the Country Director/Head of IFAD Multi-Country Office (CD/Head of MCO), or assigned Country Director at a senior level.The position is located in LAC division and the incumbent works under the direct supervision of CD/Head of MCO. Job Role The Country Director is accountable for the IFAD core values of integrity, transparency, and equity in the management of the assigned portfolio. Accountabilities/key results of the Country Director include advocating for and enhancing national government programmes that improve poor rural people's access to natural resources, agricultural technologies, financial services, markets, employment opportunities, and enterprise development. The Country Director also promotes capacity building of key government counterparts and the rural poor in terms of the skills required for their participation in national and local policy and programming processes.The Country Director plays an active role in engaging with the private sector and other local stakeholders. The Country Director is responsible for the implementation of the IFAD12 Business model throughout his/her portfolio : (i) crowd in transformational development finance; (ii) support the development of transformational country programs; (iii) ensure proximity and adaptability to member states ; and (iv) deliver as One IFAD – strong, inclusive and engaged teams.In addition, s/he leads the implementation of LAC's medium term strategy in his/her portfolio focusing on: (i) amplify impact, (ii) innovate, (iii) partner and (iv) speak and convene.The Country Director will lead country consultations for countries in path towards graduation from IFAD financing following the approved corporate policies. Key Functions and Results COUNTRY STRATEGY MANAGEMENT: The Country Director leads strategic positioning and country strategy development. S/he is accountable for leading and managing the development and implementation of medium to longer-term strategies (COSOP) for IFAD's collaboration with governments and other national stakeholders for agricultural development and rural poverty reduction following the principle of ownership, alignment and harmonization. This entails analysis of the dynamics of agricultural development and rural poverty reduction, the development of relevant country-specific strategies, and the definition of IFAD's value added in this context. COUNTRY PROGRAMME MANAGEMENT: The Country Director manages IFAD programme and related IFAD-funded projects within the portfolio assigned by the Division Director. S/he leads the design and supervision of the projects as well as loan and grant negotiations, all in accordance with IFAD's applicable policies. The Country Director is accountable for analysing relevant information, assisting in the periodic monitoring and evaluation of results achieved and reporting on and disseminating findings. S/he contributes effectively to the IFAD organizational change agenda, with reference to issues related to IFAD's direct supervision and implementation support modalities. INSTITUTIONAL REPRESENTATION AND PARTNERSHIP MANAGEMENT: The Country Director ensures IFAD presence at country-level. S/he contributes to catalysing effective partnerships with a broad range of stakeholders in agricultural development and rural poverty reduction, including government and non-governmental institutions, bilateral and multilateral financing institutions, civil society organizations, research centres and the private sector. Additionally, s/he enhances IFAD's relationships and collaboration with in-country partners focusing on synergies and coordinated strategies with multilateral/bilateral donors and civil-society organizations involved in agricultural development and rural poverty reduction. S/he represents IFAD on the UN Country Team, acting as the primary point of contact for transmitting IFAD's decisions, provides support in the coordination of operational activities for development, and contributes to all international and national/thematic groups meetings. CONTRIBUTION TO POLICY LEADERSHIP: The Country Director contributes to corporate level strategy on core IFAD policy positions within the assigned portfolio, led by Division Directors. S/he maintains and promotes constructive dialogue on the development of pro-poor agricultural development and rural poverty reduction policies and in enabling the rural poor to advocate for institutional transformation. S/he regularly participates in relevant policy meetings and events of interest to IFAD's target groups and which involve the government, donors, and civil society, including NGOs, to render the policy dialogue agenda both credible and sustainable. S/he contributes to IFAD's policy intelligence with regular updates and information exchange on relevant policy discussions and ensure proper knowledge management is in place. Policy dialogue focuses on seeking to link the realities on the ground and the voices of the poor with national policies and programmes. OFFICE MANAGEMENT: The Country Director supports the relevant CD/Head of MCO in managing the utilization of allocated resources. As such, s/he supports the management of human resources, contracting goods and services, and financial management. S/he also supports budget preparation, management, and monitoring of expenditures. Key Performance IndicatorsThe Country Director provides technical and managerial leadership to the substantive development and execution of the assigned country programme(s), including providing:day-to-day managerial direction to Programme Analysts and Officers (up to P-3 level), Country Programme Officers (CPOs), Country Programme Assistants (CPAs) and Administrative Assistants (AAs);effective country presence and representation with government counterparts and other programme collaborators; andthe ability to anticipate and manage potential risks to programme success. Working Relationships COMMUNICATIONS: The Country Director serves as the IFAD spokesperson in the country concerned and, in carrying out this role and when required, draws on the advice and expertise of IFAD's Communications Division (COM). The Country Director holds regular consultations with IFAD counterparts - line ministries and governmental bodies at all administrative levels, donors, civil society organizations - to enhance the effectiveness and impact of IFAD operations. The Country Director also seeks to improve coordination among IFAD, the government and key development partners with a view primarily to ensuring synergy and a common approach to emerging agricultural development and rural poverty reduction strategies, policies and investment programmes. S/he serves as IFAD's liaison with project authorities and helps address administrative and programme-related substantive issues, such as targeting and identifying needs for technical backstopping. The Country Director proactively works with project management to ensure compliance with IFAD policies and overall orientation towards the achievement of results and impact. As a senior expert on country programme formulation and delivery, the effectiveness of the Country Director as an advocate and trusted counterpart substantially affects IFAD's image as a reliable and creative partner. The Country Director originates and manages new country-level projects or programmes in the assigned portfolio. Going beyond established procedures or models, their substantive contributions reflect new approaches that materially expand the range of services or programmes delivered at the country level. Programme design and development activities reflect authoritative technical capacity in performing the Head of Country Programme role. Externally, the impact on the overall IFAD programme is significant in projecting the organization's role/capacity as a reliable partner with a qualitative edge at the national level.Working relationships with peers across IFAD is encouraged, such as the Strategy and Knowledge Department (SKD), Financial Management Division (FMD), and Global Partnership and Resource Mobiilization (GPR), Treasury Services (TRE), Communications (COM) as well as Corporate Services Department (CSD) for provision of security, IT and HRD support, among others. Job Profile Requirements Organizational Competencies: Level 2:Building relationships and partnerships - Builds and maintains strategic partnerships internally and externallyCommunicating and negotiating - Acquires & uses a wide range of communication styles & skillsDemonstrating leadership - Leads by example; initiates and supports changeFocusing on clients - Contributes to a clientfocused cultureLearning, sharing knowledge and innovating - Challenges, innovates&contributes to learning cultureManaging performance and developing staff - Manages wider teams with greater impact on others and on the organizationManaging time, resources and information - Coordinates wider use of time, information and/or resourcesProblem-solving and decision-making - Solves complex problems and makes decisions that have wider corporate impactStrategic thinking and organizational development - Staff in management and/or strategic leadership rolesTeam working - Fosters a cohesive team environment Education:Education includes Advanced university degree from an accredited institution listed on https://whed.net/home.php in rural development, agriculture, rural finance, development policy or related field is required (*):(*) Note: For internal candidates, this requirement will be assessed in line with the provisions set forth in IFAD's Human Resources Implementing Procedures. Experience:At least eight (8) years of progressively responsible professional experience in rural development, agriculture, rural finance, development policy or other job related fields, with a preference for economics.Two (2) years in an international organizations, rural development/financial institutions or government services providing support on a global scope.Experience may include project design, development, implementation and evaluation preferably in area of implementation and supervision of rural development programmes. Languages:English (4 - Excellent)Spanish, Castilian (4 - Excellent)Working knowledge of other language is an added advantage Skills: IFAD governance & mandate: In depth knowledge of IFAD`s governance structure, mandate, strategic priorities and technical workAdvocacy: Ability to leverage IFAD knowledge and/or communication materials to maintain and promote constructive dialogue around IFAD`s vision and strategic priorities to external actorsIFAD partners: Knowledge of IFAD's partners' functioning and mandate , such as the public sector (e.g. governments and policy, institutions and system), non-state actors (NGOs, CSOs, Foundations, etc.) and private sector actorsResource mobilization: Know-how in resource mobilization strategies (including marketing and communication) for IFI, international public bodies and within the UNPerformance management: Know-how in managing performance, learning management, establishing learning plans and ensuring staff supervised meet their development needs while meeting the needs of IFADRisk management (e.g. reputational): Identification and assessment of potential liabilities and risks in IFAD's activities, particularly vis-à-vis third parties; ability to handle risks via contingency and mitigation strategiesInterpersonal skills: Ability to deal patiently and tactfully with others (e.g. visitors, clients, callers, etc.), including senior individuals (e.g. high-level meeting participants)Leadership: Group thought leader, sought out by others and providing mentorship and effective guidance to others; Ability to build trust, inside and outside the organization by acting as a role model for IFAD's core values and competencies, and to provide a clear sense of direction, mentorship and effective guidance to the team, strategizing the IFAD's goals, giving the vision, empowering the team and ensuring a positive environment for all.Evidence-based policy: Know-how in the formulation of concrete and actionable policy recommendations based on hard evidence (going beyond simple data interpretation)Loans & grants: Know-how in designing loan and grant operations and managing loan and grant preparation processPolicy dialogue: Know-how in the representation of IFAD as a trusted and strategic partner, advocating and promoting IFAD's mandate and vision; effective consultations with IFAD counterparts - like ministries and governmental bodies at all administrative levels, donors, civil societyTopical expertise - Programme Mgmt for Agricultural Development: Expertise relevant to the specific role (e.g. For ethics office assistant, procedures outlined in the Code of Conduct, Discipline and Anti-harassment provisions of applicable rules and guidelines)Cross-cutting themes - Environment & climate change: Expertise specific to the environment and climate change cross-cutting theme (e.g. climate and environmental policy, biodiversity, agroecology)Cross-cutting themes - Gender and social inclusion: Expertise specific to gender and social inclusion cross-cutting theme (e.g. youth, targeting strategies)Cross-cutting themes - Nutrition: Expertise specific to nutrition cross-cutting theme (e.g. food systems)Project/Programme mgmt (incl. coordination, design, development): Know-how in Project design and evaluationRural Finance: Expertise in inclusive rural finance: i.e. pro-poor rural and agricultural financial services (including savings, credit, insurance, payments, remittances, etc.), customer demand and capacities, financial service providers, financial systems and markets, and policy and regulations (micro, meso and macro level adapted support). Other Information IFAD is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of ethnic, social or political background, colour, nationality, religion, age, gender, disability, marital status, family size or sexual orientation. Please be aware of fraudulent job offers. IFAD does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. Official communication from IFAD will always come from e-mails ending in @ifad.org.This position is included in IFAD internal reassignment exercise and advertised externally in parallel. Should a suitable staff member be identified during the reassignment exercise and the reassignment decision accepted, the recruitment process will be cancelled. In case no suitable candidate is identified through reassignment, the recruitment process will continue. This is how cinfo can support you in the application process for this specific position:Before you apply for this position: Improve your application documents by registering for a Job Application Support.When invited to the interview: Prepare for the interview by registering for a Job Application Support.For Swiss nationals who get invited to the first round in the selection process (written test, interview, assessment centre, etc.):Please let us know so that we can inform our HR partners from the respective organisation and the Swiss Government to increase your visibility: recruitment@cinfo.chBenefit from free interview preparation by registering for a Job Application Support. Interested in a career with multilateral institutions? Read more: Working with the United Nations Working with International Financial Institutions For Swiss nationals
Organizational Setting The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is an international financial institution and a specialized United Nations agency dedicated to eradicating rural poverty and hunger. It does so by investing in rural people. IFAD finances programmes and projects that increase agricultural productivity and raise rural incomes, and advocates at the local, national and international level for policies that contribute to rural transformation. The Programme Management Department (PMD), under the leadership of an Associate Vice-President, is responsible for the overall programme of loans and grants of the Fund and is composed of five (5) regional divisions and the Operational Policy and Results Division. Under the strategic management and policy guidance of a PMD Regional Division Director and Lead Procurement Advisor, the Senior Regional Procurement Officer will work closely with the Country Directors (CDs), IFAD Country Offices (ICO) staff and project team members, to provide strategic analysis and advice to ensure that the division's programmes and projects are aligned to IFAD's procurement policies and procedures.The position is located in LAC division. Job Role The Senior Regional Procurement Officer is accountable for IFAD core values of integrity, transparency, and equity in the alignment to IFAD's procurement policies and procedures (as established in the IFAD Project Procurement Guidelines, IFAD Procurement Handbook and other related and relevant documentation), of the divisions programmes and projects. Key Functions and Results 1. STRATEGY AND EFFECTIVENESS MANAGEMENT: The Senior Regional Procurement Officer is responsible for the effectiveness of procurement management execution by country programme management teams and project teams during project implementation and project design. He/she is responsible for procurement execution in line with the IFAD Procurement Guidelines and Handbook, and the appropriate controls, risk assessment and contract management while ensuring the effective use of resources, identifying bottlenecks and weaknesses of project procurement controls and establishing mechanisms for solutions. He/she is also responsible for Letters to the Borrower, with emphasis on procurement thresholds and specific implementation and procurement arrangements. PROCUREMENT MANAGEMENT: The Senior Regional Procurement Officer has the following roles and responsibilities: Roles: Promote fulfilment of IFAD's project procurement oversight function. Champion the design and effective implementation of appropriate project procurement quality assurance, risk-based systems and evidence-based oversight. Provide guidance and advice to the Regional Division management and Proejct Delivery Teams (PDTs) on procurement policies, practices, processes and procedures. Lead the development of the Procurement Strategy for IFAD's project: prepare project implementation to achieve the best procurement results and value for money, including a detailed research of the market, its capabilities in terms of safeguards/SECAP requirements and other key operational risks that need to be addressed while ensuring good procurement planning in support of project implementation.Lead the coordination with colleagues in ECG and PMI on safeguards and mitigation measures during project design and implementation. IFAD's updated Social Environmental and Climate Assessment Procedures (SECAP) require a close integration of safeguards into the procurement process.Dispense strategic support and backstopping to the Regional Division management and CPMTs, on procurement issues throughout project design, supervision and implementation support, including by serving as a member of Design Review Meetings (DRM). Provide authoritative advice, counsel and guidance particularly on complex procurement issues, innovative solutions. Assist the Regional Division management and PDTs on approaches and strategies for the development of procurement documents that take into consideration latest sector trends, market conditions, life cycle costing analysis, value-for-money concepts and practices used in other donor agencies including multilaterals. Monitor procurement performance across the portfolio, develop key project procurement performance indicators and risk management tools to ensure proactive identification and action to address procurement and contract management issues and bottlenecks. Assesses needs and identifies training options for Country Directors (CDs), Ifad Country Office (ICO) staff and project team members to ensure robust management of procurement risk. When necessary, provides training and guidance to CDs, ICO staff and project team members on project procurement management and related risks. Advise, as appropriate, the Regional Division management and CDTs on market analysis, market outreach and communication strategies to attract capable, available and responsive bidders. Monitor, review and manage procurement and contract data entered by projects into the IFAD Contract Monitoring Tool and other project procurement ICT systems. This includes the setting of targets with projects and regular follow-up meeting.Provide proactive project procurement portfolio management:develop regular procurement reports for the regional division highlighting the amount of contracts for different categories of procurement, main risks and problems faced in the portfolio. Propose actions for improvement, taking into consideration the specific economic and social context of the region;Contribute to the knowledge and expertise of project procurement by staying abreast of and reporting on current trends in international public procurement. Recommend practices and procedures for implementing procurement lessons learned in projects funded or administered by IFAD. Share knowledge through formal trainings and/or hands-on field practice and exchanges lessons learnt with other Regional Divisions and OPR. Prepare new procurement templates and guidance notes on various topics in procurement or suggest modifications to existing ones. Provide advice, appraisal and feedback on the work of Procurement consultants hired by IFAD. Facilitate, follow up and support procurement investigations and management of procurement complaints. Lead and organise project procurement reviews (PPRs). Prepare and contribute to updating ORMS and Management Letters. Contribute and lead thedevelopment, operationalization and roll-out of ICT systems for procurement. Responsibilities: Prepare or clear procurement capacity/system and risk assessments. Prepare or clear definition of project procurement arrangements, project procuremtn strategy and prior-review thresholds. Review and clear Letters to the Borrower. Review prepared Project Implementation Manuals (PIMs). Review and/or clear procurement activities and processes requiring IFAD's prior review and advise CDs/CDs accordingly regarding issuance of No Objections. Undertake PPRs. Undertake post review of procurement. Provide inputs to procurement issues in supervision missions. Support procurement training and capacity building. Undertake procurement analysis of trends and risk.These responsibilities (preparation, undertaking, review and clearance) may be delegated to ICO staff and/or IFAD procurement consultants. The Senior Regional Procurement Officer only clears when s/he did not prepare, and when s/he prepares, clearance may need to be undertaken by other members of the team. Proactive project procurement portfolio management:to the regional division: Develop reports, targets including detailed analysis of the procurement portfolio and if required proposed actions for improvement specifics to the region. PARTNERSHIP BUILDING: The Senior Regional Procurement Officer contributes to promoting a constructive dialogue on procurement matters with country directors, government officials, counterparts in other international organizations and public sector management and financial management specialists, as well as other external parties through engaging them on public procurement reforms. He/she attends meetings on procurement related matters to champion continuous procurement improvements within IFAD and maintains and facilitates an IFAD-approved roster of qualified procurement consultants in the region, ensuring they are fully updated on IFAD procurement policies. MANAGERIAL FUNCTIONS: The Senior Regional Procurement Officer is accountable for integrity, transparency, and equity in the alignment to IFAD's procurement policies and procedures of the divisions programmes and projects. He/she coordinates and liaises with the Office of Audit and Oversight and other Technical Divisions on procurement cases. He/she maintains a consolidated database and files on prior review contracts and ensures project/programme contract registers are updated and submitted to the division. Ensures procurement management at divisional level and relevance and appropriateness of Guidelines on Procurement, proposing drafts for revisions and updates. Position specific: Provide authoritative advice and guidance on the subject matter to the relevant team during project cycle, including negotiations of loan agreements. Key Performance Indicators The key results have an impact on the overall efficiency in procurement management, and success in introduction and implementation of operational strategies. Strategic approach to procurement, accurate, thoroughly researched documented information, timely and appropriate delivery of services, ensure client satisfaction and overall timely delivery of IFAD programmes and projects. The Senior Regional Procurement Officer at this level provides strategic analysis and advice on procurement related issues to ensure that regional divisions' programmes and projects follow IFAD's procurement policies and procedures. Going beyond established procedures or models, the Senior Regional Procurement Officer's substantive contributions reflect proposals for revisions and updates of Guidelines on Procurement ensuring relevance and appropriateness. He/she demonstrates authoritative knowledge and capacity in performing the Senior Regional Procurement Officer role. Working Relationships Within the parameters of a Senior Regional Procurement Officer, at this level he/she serves as senior strategic analyst and advisor on procurement related issues. Combination of credible authoritative capacity with independent responsibility for assessment of division's procurement systems, training of staff and management of procurement risks, ensures the adherence to IFAD's procurement policies and procedures. He/she contributes to resolving complex issues related to procurement matters. Job Profile Requirements Organizational Competencies: Level 2:Building relationships and partnerships - Builds and maintains strategic partnerships internally and externallyCommunicating and negotiating - Acquires & uses a wide range of communication styles & skillsDemonstrating leadership - Leads by example; initiates and supports changeFocusing on clients - Contributes to a client-focused cultureLearning, sharing knowledge and innovating - Challenges, innovates & contributes to learning cultureManaging performance and developing staff - Manages wider teams with greater impact on others and on the organizationManaging time, resources and information - Coordinates wider use of time, information and/or resourcesProblem-solving and decision-making - Solves complex problems and makes decisions that have wider corporate impactStrategic thinking and organizational development - Staff in management and/or strategic leadership rolesTeam working - Fosters a cohesive team environment Education:Advanced university degree from an accredited institution listed on https://whed.net/home.php in business administration, public administration, law, commerce, finance or related field is required (*):(*) Note: For internal candidates, this requirement will be assessed in line with the provisions set forth in IFAD's Human Resources Implementing Procedures. Experience:At least eight (8) years of progressively responsible professional experience in procurement activities in an international organization including a proven record of managing and delivering complex procurement programmes and record of relevant field experience. Position-specific experience: Work in more than one geographic region as well as at Headquarters is an asset. Management and procurement experience in the UN system is desirable.Solid knowledge of procurement policies, procedures and systems in LAC regions. Languages:Required English (4 – Excellent) Desirable: French or Arabic (3 – Good) Position-specific requirement: Working knowledge of Spanish is essential. Skills: Procedure adherence: Ability to strictly adhere to established, formal guidelines, including in new situationsProcurement: Know-how in the application of the procurement policies, rules and regulations applicable to IFAD HQ and/or Country Programmes/Projects, including for complex individual casesRecord management: Know-how in record keeping (e.g. proper handling of records and systems to preserve institutional memory, including correspondence logs, office filing and reference systems, etc.)Risk management (e.g. reputational): Identification and assessment of potential liabilities and risks in IFAD's activities, particularly vis-à-vis third parties; ability to handle risks via contingency and mitigation strategiesStakeholder management: Strong alignment capabilities and consultation skills, building on effective interactions and relationships with different stakeholders (e.g. for the co-creation of communication material with member states) and ability to build and maintain a strong network (e.g. with journalists, media outlets, etc.)Client orientation: Strong critical thinking combined with communication skills to liaise between the business and technologies to understand business problems and needs, document requirements and identify solutionsIntegrity and ethics: Strong emphasis on acting with honesty, not tolerating unethical behaviour, demonstrating equity, impartiality and sensitivity in exercising authority and interacting with staff, and other stakeholders. Conduct must be guided by IFAD core values, the Code of conduct and a high sense of ethics.Problem solving: Strong systemic and structured thinking, ability to identify and dissect problems into components and formulate a comprehensive set of creative viable and sustainable solutions and strategiesProject/Programme mgmt (incl. coordination, design, development): Know-how in Project design and evaluation Other Information IFAD is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of ethnic, social or political background, colour, nationality, religion, age, gender, disability, marital status, family size or sexual orientation. Please be aware of fraudulent job offers. IFAD does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. Official communication from IFAD will always come from e-mails ending in @ifad.org.This position is included in IFAD internal reassignment exercise and advertised externally in parallel. Should a suitable staff member be identified during the reassignment exercise and the reassignment decision accepted, the recruitment process will be cancelled. In case no suitable candidate is identified through reassignment, the recruitment process will continue. This is how cinfo can support you in the application process for this specific position:Before you apply for this position: Improve your application documents by registering for a Job Application Support.When invited to the interview: Prepare for the interview by registering for a Job Application Support.For Swiss nationals who get invited to the first round in the selection process (written test, interview, assessment centre, etc.):Please let us know so that we can inform our HR partners from the respective organisation and the Swiss Government to increase your visibility: recruitment@cinfo.chBenefit from free interview preparation by registering for a Job Application Support. Interested in a career with multilateral institutions? Read more: Working with the United Nations Working with International Financial Institutions For Swiss nationals
Organizational Setting The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is an international financial institution and a specialized United Nations agency dedicated to eradicating rural poverty and hunger. It does so by investing in rural people. IFAD finances programmes and projects that increase agricultural productivity and raise rural incomes, and advocates at local, national and international levels for policies that contribute to rural transformation. The Strategy and Knowledge Department (SKD) provides expert guidance on IFAD's strategic direction, thematic priorities and technical quality of IFAD operations. It plays a critical role in providing technical expertise to operational teams to enhance development effectiveness by generating and disseminating IFAD's development knowledge and evidence on strategic themes, and encouraging innovative application of cutting-edge global knowledge and evidence in IFAD investments to help countries tackle their most complex development challenges in fostering inclusive and sustainable rural transformation. SKD is composed of the: (i) Environment, Climate, Gender and Social Inclusion Division (ECG); (ii) Sustainable Production, Markets and Institutions Division (PMI); and (iii) Research and Impact Assessment Division (RIA).ECG is composed of two clusters: (i) Environment and Climate Change Cluster; (ii) and the Social Inclusion Cluster. ECG takes the lead in integrating cross-cutting themes of environment and climate, nutrition, gender, youth, and indigenous peoples into IFAD's portfolio, with the aim of strengthening the quality and impact of IFAD's operations. ECG also contributes to the generation of evidence and knowledge on these themes, and facilitates their use in IFAD-funded projects and activities. In addition, ECG provides guidance and support to ensure the inclusion of marginalized groups, particularly women, indigenous peoples and rural youth, into IFAD operations. Addressing environmental, biodiversity and climate change issues are inseparable from IFAD's mission to overcome poverty. One of the pillars of this work is the preparation and implementation of the Social, Environment, and Climate Change Assessment Procedures (SECAP) for enhanced results. IFAD has successfully mainstreamed social inclusion, environment and climate change concerns into its procedures and programming since the IFAD10 replenishment cycle, and a key tool for doing so is through the application of the SECAP and respective Strategies and Action Plans for each theme through to 2025. The ambitious mainstreaming targets continue to be a corporate commitment for IFAD in its twelfth replenishment (IFAD12: 2022-2024) where it has further expanded on these commitments, including through an enhanced and expanded SECAP 2020 guidelines including, inter alia, a broader treatment of social risks, a distinct climate standard, greater focus on stakeholder consultations and grievance mechanisms. The SECAP seek to both minimize risks and maximize development gains. IFAD is also strengthening its capacity to consolidate supplementary financing alongside its Programmes of Loans and Grants (PoLG) to achieve impact at scale. These include IFAD Trust Funds (the ongoing Adaptation for Smallholder Agriculture Programme, Rural Resilience Programme), in addition to global climate change and environment Funds from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), the Least Developed Country Fund (LDCF), the Special Climate Change Fund (SCCF), the Green Climate Fund (GCF), and the Adaptation Fund. To maintain its accreditation to these Funds, IFAD must also ensure and report on compliance with the standards established by their respective governance bodies.The Senior Technical Specialist (SECAP) works under the supervision of the Sr. Technical Specialist (SECAP) or the Lead Regional Technical Specialist (Environment and Climate) and overall strategic, policy and management guidance, and supervision of the division Director. Job Role The Senior Technical Specialist serves as IFAD's technical expert in his/her area of expertise. S/he supports country/regional programs by providing state-of-the-art global technical advice throughout the project cycle (strategic and operational), as well as contributes to the corporate agenda, in his/her technical area of expertise. Within his/her areas of responsibility, the Senior Technical Specialist exercises a high degree of independence in providing reliable programme delivery. The incumbent at this level performs the full complexity range of work independently, including the analysis and approval of complex and/or precedent setting cases with the aim to ensure cohesion and synergy in the application of technical advice and provision of programme development support. S/he works collaboratively with the thematic Technical Specialists, Country Directors (CD)/Heads of Multi-country Offices (MCO) and other staff to ensure consistency. The Senior Technical Specialist is an expert and knowledge builder in her/his thematic specialization. S/he provides technical expertise and guidance on generating and using new ideas to enrich the knowledge base that supports the Fund's policy agenda. With corporate, rather than country or regional specific focus, s/he provides substantive contribution to understanding future trends in rural development strengthening IFAD's strategic planning perspective and pro-actively fostering innovative and effective solutions to rural poverty within country programmes, IFAD policy, member governments, the academic community, and public opinion in the international development community. Work at this level is characterized by technical leadership in field of specialization in collaboration with professional and support staff of a unit or by the provision of authoritative technical advice. S/he works collaboratively with SKD technical specialists (both in PMI and ECG) to ensure consistency, cohesion and synergy in the application of technical advice and provision of programme development support facilitating knowledge flows and building of communities of practices. Position specifics: Senior Technical Specialist (SECAP) works collaboratively with respective ECG technical specialists (both Environment/Climate and Social Inclusion), PMI thematic Technical Specialists, Country Directors and other staff to ensure consistency, cohesion and synergy in the application of technical advice and provision of programme development support facilitating knowledge flows and building of communities of practices. Key Functions and Results SENIOR TECHNICAL ADVICE: The Senior Technical Specialist provides technically authoritative advice to improve the IFAD's capacity to position itself as an influential global player in these domains, and to improve related national government policies and programmes, ensuring IFAD is regarded as a trusted and valued partner. Accountabilities may include, but are not limited to: (a) providing IFAD staff and partners with up-to-date professional advice on policy, institutional and technical issues; (b) contributing to ensuring that IFAD senior management is regularly and adequately briefed to engage effectively in high-level fora with policy implications for rural transformation; and (c) providing senior-level technical expertise to the preparation of knowledge products aimed at advancing IFAD's voice in the global debate on rural transformation, in close collaboration within SKD and other IFAD departments. KNOWLEDGE AND ADVISORY SERVICES: The Senior Technical Specialist enhances the development of viable and sustainable policies, and supports regional and global thematic input, through authoritative technical knowledge sharing for her/his area of specialization. S/he will ensure access to the latest sources of knowledge and innovation, strengthening of technical capacity, and establishment of new knowledge and advisory partnerships. Accountabilities may include, but are not limited to: (i) supporting intelligence gathering and analysis of debates relevant to inclusive and sustainable rural transformation in the global debate and facilitating knowledge sharing and experiences in this area within SKD, IFAD and among other stakeholders in the global arena; (ii) supporting the coordination of relevant knowledge development and dissemination of knowledge and lessons learned with external partners and stakeholders (including regional and national institutions) through seminars, workshops and the publication of Occasional Papers, journal articles, and electronic media, as well as the development of new knowledge products and operational tools informed by learning from the field; (iii) participating in IFAD-wide thematic discussions and developing appropriate technical and operation approaches of relevance to country/divisional strategies and programmes; and (iv) planning and leading learning events to strengthen IFAD's knowledge and capacity to engage in global debates with policy implications for rural transformation. PARTNERSHIP BUILDING AND OUTREACH ACTIVITIES: The Senior Technical Specialist develops and maintains a network of strategic partnerships that can help advance IFAD's mandate and messages around rural transformation in the global debate. S/he develops peer contacts inside and outside IFAD to keep up-to-date on activities at country and regional levels, support joint advocacy, and share knowledge to enhance the Fund's profile as a highly competent and viable partner in development. Accountabilities may include: (a) building strategic partnerships with centers of excellence, complementary technical organizations, and specialized departments of other development institutions (including United Nations agencies, International Financial Institutions, bilateral cooperation agencies, non-governmental organizations, etc.); (b) strengthening IFAD's representation and communication in policy processes, including representing IFAD at international, regional, and inter-agency meetings, seminars and conferences; and (c) developing and cultivating alliances in key global policy fora to strengthen IFAD's influence over time, with a strategic focus on specific themes. MONITORING, EVALUATION AND REPORTING:The Senior Technical Specialist (SECAP) contributes to ensuring and capturing results from IFAD's portfolio in order to enhance country level programmes in in the assigned Regional Office portfolios and funding decisions based on accurate technical data. In particular, accountabilities may include: (a) Monitor the quality of SECAP implementation projects, programmes and strategies. (b) Monitor and provide inputs to ensure the quality of SECAP studies being produced by projects during implementation.(c) Monitor and identify means to address poor implementation of SECAPs by project teams. (d) Provide support to reporting to IFAD's Board on the quality of SECAP implementation ratings. (e) Monitor and ensure IFAD's and Supplementary Funds' public information, disclosure and grievance redress mechanisms are in place and requirements are met. (f) Monitor and provide input to IFAD policies and strategies to ensure accreditation requirements are maintained; (g) Participate in supervision missions to provide support to the implementation of environment and social management plans; (h) Assess the quality of project implementation and progress reports to ensure their quality and comprehensiveness; (i) Troubleshoot issues related to project progress and provide recommendations to management on measures to overcome barriers to efficient and quality implementation. MANAGERIAL FUNCTIONS: The Senior Technical Specialist is accountable for integrity, transparency, and equity in the management of IFAD resources. This includes, among others, people management through support to recruitment of technical specialists and technical leadership/capacity development, coaching and mentoring of new and/or more junior staff, supervisory role and evaluation of performance of professionals and general service staff under his/her purview. Position specifics: SENIOR ADVICE ON SECAP: The Senior Technical Specialist (SECAP) will work to enhance the quality of the preparation and implementation of the Social, Environmental and Climate Change Assessment Procedures (SECAP) including opportunities to enhance project development objectives through social integration, climate change adaptation and mitigation and sustainable environmental management. This will include support to projects financed through a variety of sources including the Programme of Loans and Grants (PoLG) and a variety of supplementary Funds. In particular, the incumbent will:Coordinate the preparation and oversight of the implementation of SECAP requirements such as, inter alia, environment and social impact assessments, climate risk and adaptation assessments and environment and social management plans or frameworks in in the assigned Regional Office portfoliosCoordinate the Division's safeguards team's efforts in providing advice, building capacity, and advancing the development of safeguards policies within member countries.Review projects, programmes and strategies in order to strengthen their contribution to countries' development objectives, including those identified under multilateral and regional climate change and environment conventions in in the assigned Regional Office portfolios.Ensure high quality SECAPs though robust and comprehensive assessments, development of management plans and project activities. The expert will both lead and provide support to others in achieving quality SECAPs.Lead the enhancement of high quality climate risk, impact and adaptation assessments based on state of the art methodologies.Support and supplement the development and maintenance of a roster of certified SECAP regional and international consultants, ensuring expertise across all SECAP Standards and regional needs.Draft and revise Terms of References for consultants for the preparation, capacity building and implementation of SECAPs; Provide technical backstopping and troubleshooting in high risk projects and countries in in the assigned Regional Office portfolios;Participate in project delivery teams in in the assigned Regional Office portfolios, in particular where there are substantial and high levels of risks related to the SECAP; Work with regional teams to strengthen the climate and environment rationale and activities in project proposals; Provide technical inputs to the design, start-up and implementation of climate and environment projects supported through Supplementary funds (eg. concept notes, project design documents, preparation of TORs, data collection and analysis, review of consultant's work KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT: The Senior Technical Specialist (SECAP) will ensure country-level access to the latest sources of knowledge and innovation, strengthen national technical capacity and establish new Knowledge and advisory partnerships. In particular, accountabilities may include: (a) Coordinate the work of the Division to ensure that appropriate resources, capacity and knowledge are deployed to effectively cover the implementation of SECAP, in particular in coordination with the Division for Operational Policies and Results (OPR) SECAP team. (b) Coordinate ECG's efforts to develop and implement the SECAP through adequate training and knowledge building on a continuous basis. (c) Identify and implement trainings for IFAD staff, consultants, project delivery teams and partner institutions as required. (d) Produce knowledge products to further develop IFAD's technical tools and to communicate lessons learned and results from the portfolio of projects. (e) Propose enhancement of strategic documents and processes to support the preparation and implementation of the SECAP. (f) Participate in UN, MDB, regional, national and other safeguards related working groups. (g) Keep abreast and produce guidance materials to colleagues on changes to safeguards and other related policies and practices of the supplementary climate and environment funds. PARTNERSHIP BUILDING: The Senior Technical Specialist (SECAP) will (a) Monitor, ensure, and report on IFAD's compliance with safeguards policies of external funding sources to ensure continued access to supplementary financing. This applies specifically to the Adaptation Fund, the Global Environment Facility and the Green Climate Fund. (b) Represent IFAD in relevant regional, sub-regional and international events to showcase IFAD's innovations and results. (c) Expand innovative partnerships with development partners to facilitate coherence with IFAD climate change and environment agenda. (d) Play an active role in resource mobilization efforts related to ECG themes. (e) Contribute to responding to member requests for information. Key Performance Indicators Assignments require the provision of authoritative technical expertise in the field of specialization. The impact of work by the incumbent directly affects the overall country programme and contributes to regional and corporate policy and strategy. Senior Technical Specialists design and contribute to the delivery of a country programme. The impact on the overall IFAD country and regional programmes is significant in projecting the Fund's role/capacity as a reliable, viable partner in development. Work is intricate in that it requires consideration of a wide range of technical factors and related data, and national policies relevant for the economic policy concerns of the international organization. Senior Technical Specialists also monitor and guide the work of external consultants and participate as experts in field missions and intergovernmental and expert group meetings of a technical nature.Work at this level normally is not reviewed for technical accuracy. Senior Technical Specialists thus exercise independence and initiative in assessing needs and advising governments when on field mission. Decisions are made on the research or analytical strategies to be followed in resolving problems of concern in the technical area. Established methods and procedures are adapted as necessary in order to achieve desired results. Working Relationships The work relationships of the Senior Technical Specialist involve providing technical advice, and negotiating and resolving problems that arise in technical project design and appraisal, supervision/implementation support and in preparing studies and reports. S/he serves as an expert in rural infrastructure and renewable energy and works with full technical independence in providing technical expertise and methodological guidance at the country level, as well as regionally, as required. Contacts are with counterparts and senior officials within other United Nations organizations having related programmes, and with officials of governments, non-governmental and intergovernmental organizations, research institutes and academia. At intergovernmental bodies, expert groups and other meetings, the Senior Technical Specialist (Research) provides technical expertise and recommendations for policy formulation and official conclusions in a consultative and specialist capacity; s/he may also provide information regarding the organization's policies, and act as the representative of the organization, maintaining contacts to identify and evaluate emerging developments. Job Profile Requirements Organizational Competencies: Level 2:Building relationships and partnerships - Builds and maintains strategic partnerships internally and externallyCommunicating and negotiating - Acquires & uses a wide range of communication styles & skillsDemonstrating leadership - Leads by example; initiates and supports changeFocusing on clients - Contributes to a client-focused cultureLearning, sharing knowledge and innovating - Challenges, innovates & contributes to learning cultureManaging performance and developing staff - Manages wider teams with greater impact on others and on the organizationManaging time, resources and information - Coordinates wider use of time, information and/or resourcesProblem-solving and decision-making - Solves complex problems and makes decisions that have wider corporate impactStrategic thinking and organizational development - Staff in management and/or strategic leadership rolesTeam working - Fosters a cohesive team environment Education:Level - Advanced university degree from an accredited institution listed on https://www.whed.net/home.php in a job related field (*) Areas - Agriculture, Rural Development, Natural Resource Management, Environment, Economics, Social Sciences, etc.(*) Note: For internal candidates, this requirement will be assessed in line with the provisions set forth in the IFAD's Human Resources Implementing Procedures. Experience:At least eight (8) years of progressively responsible professional experience in, and demonstrated understanding of development initiatives in the field of specialization. Two (2) years in a multi-cultural organization or national organization providing support on a global scope.Position-specific experience: Extensive expertise in Climate Change risk analysis and management as specified in IFAD's Social, Environmental and Climate Assessment Procedures (SECAP); Experience in fieldwork and international policy frameworks related to project and program development for climate change and environment financing is an asset. Experience in environment and social impact assessments and management plans. Technical expertise at the country level in area of specialization. Skills in the design and coordination of technical research and identification of solutions to evolving issues. Languages:Required: English and French (4 – Excellent) Desirable: French, Spanish, or Arabic Skills: Advocacy: Ability to leverage IFAD knowledge and/or communication materials to maintain and promote constructive dialogue around IFAD`s vision and strategic priorities to external actorsKnowledge strategy & management: Extensive expertise in knowledge management & dissemination strategiesIFAD governance & mandate: In depth knowledge of IFAD`s governance structure, mandate, strategic priorities and technical workAnalytical skills: Outstanding ability to analyse and synthesize qualitative and/or quantitative information from a variety of sources and filter out key insights and recommendationsBasic ICT & digital fluency: Expertise relevant to the specific role (e.g. in-depth, computer information systems, including micro-computer operating systems software, hardware and applications software and other office technology equipment), end-user computing configuration managementAdaptability: Adaptability and flexibility when facing new or unexpected situations, and to specific constraints and circumstances and managing complex processesCollaboration: Successfully work toward a common goal with others by communicating clearly, actively listening to others, taking responsibility for mistakes, and respecting different perspectives of stakeholders.Corporate approach: Ability to bring in corporate vision and priorities into one's area of work (e.g. budgeting going beyond simple budgetary considerations, taking into account strategic priorities)Interpersonal skills: Ability to deal patiently and tactfully with others (e.g. visitors, clients, callers, etc.), including senior individuals (e.g. high-level meeting participants)Political acumen: Ability to conduct sound political analysis and understand complex environments, providing options and adviceSynthesis: Outstanding ability to synthesize and simplify complex technical information for a variety of (non-technical) audiencesVerbal communication: Clear, succinct and convincing verbal communication; highly professional, balanced and diplomatic languageWritten communication: Clear, succinct and convincing written communication in the language needed for specific role; highly professional, balanced and diplomatic language (e.g. for drafting of position papers, briefings, etc.)Evidence-based policy: Know-how in the formulation of concrete and actionable policy recommendations based on hard evidence (going beyond simple data interpretation)Programme/Project development, management: Know-how in Programme/Project development, implementation, managementSocial & Environmental Safeguards: Know-how in Social & Environmental complianc as specified in the IFAD's Social, Environmental and Climate Assessment Procedures (SECAP)Cross-cutting themes - Environment & climate change: Expertise specific to the environment and climate change cross-cutting theme (e.g. climate and environmental policy, biodiversity, agroecology)Policy dialogue: Know-how in holding regular and effective consultations with IFAD counterparts - like ministries and governmental bodies at all administrative levels, donors, civil society Other Information Applicants should note that IFAD staff members are international civil servants subject to the authority of the President of IFAD. In accordance with IFAD's Human Resources Policy, the President can decide to assign them to any of the activities of the Fund. All International Professional staff members are required to be geographically mobile and positions in the professional category are subject to changes in location at any time in line with strategic priorities and reform initiatives in IFAD.In the interest of making most cost-effective use of funds and resources, we are only able to respond to applicants who are short-listed for interview. Candidates who do not receive any feedback within three months should consider their application unsuccessful. Candidates may be required to take a written test and to deliver a presentation as well as participate in interviews.IFAD is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of ethnic, social or political background, colour, nationality, religion, age, gender, disability, marital status, family size or sexual orientation.Please be aware of fraudulent job offers. IFAD does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. Official communication from IFAD will always come from e-mails ending in @ifad.org. 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