Country and Policy Support Specialist Vacancy
The global challenge of hunger requires more than just resources; it demands a strategic, policy-driven approach to transform agrifood systems. The Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations is currently seeking a Country and Policy Support Specialist to join its Rural Transformation and Gender Equality Division. This is a high-impact role designed for a professional who can bridge the gap between international research and national implementation, ensuring that FAO remains the global leader in sustainable development.
- 🌍 Position: Country and Policy Support Specialist
- 💰 Annual Salary: $143,000 to $174,000 USD
- 🏢 Organization: Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO)
- 📍 Location: Various (Rome, Addis Ababa, Bangkok, Brasilia, Washington) or Home-Based
- 📅 Closing Date: 24 March 2026
- 🛠️ Contract Type: Consultant / PSA (1 to 11 months, renewable)
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The Strategic Mandate of the Food and Agricultural Organization
FAO is dedicated to achieving food security for all, ensuring that people have regular access to high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. To reach this goal, the organization relies on the technical expertise of the Country and Policy Support Specialist. Operating within the Alliance Support Mechanism, this position acts as a technical catalyst, leveraging the UN Development System to drive results-based policy change.
In this capacity, the Country and Policy Support Specialist contributes directly to the “Four Betters”: Better Production, Better Nutrition, a Better Environment, and a Better Life. We understand that global strategies must be tailored to fit national realities, which is why the role requires a strategist who can navigate complex intergovernmental landscapes. Joining FAO means becoming a steward of global sustainability, where your work directly influences the success of national ministries.
Core Responsibilities and Technical Backstopping
The daily functions of a Country and Policy Support Specialist are multifaceted. You will be responsible for the curation of the Alliance Policy Basket, a critical repository of research products and program profiles. Furthermore, the Country and Policy Support Specialist leads country-level “matchmaking,” connecting Global Alliance members with the specific resources and expertise they need to succeed.
Within FAO, you will also:
- Lead Stakeholder Mapping: Identify and engage key partners for in-country planning and implementation.
- Facilitate Technical Round Tables: Organize high-level collaborations that align with international strategic objectives.
- Monitor Policy Instruments: Ensure that country-owned tools meet the rigorous standards of FAO.
- Provide Diagnostic Support: Utilize numerical computing and modeling tools to provide evidence-based policy advice.
Professional Requirements and Qualifications
To excel as a Country and Policy Support Specialist, you must demonstrate a high degree of technical mastery and the ability to work in a multi-disciplinary, international environment. FAO seeks individuals who have spent years in the trenches of public policy or agricultural economics.
- Education: An advanced university degree (Master’s or PhD) in economics, public policy, or data sciences.
- Experience: Between 5 to 10 years of relevant professional history (Category A or B).
- Skills: Proficiency in data analytics and a deep understanding of the unique challenges facing rural transformation.
- Communication: Excellent command of English is mandatory, while knowledge of other official languages of the Food and Agricultural Organization is a distinct advantage.
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Why Join the Food and Agricultural Organization?
The Food and Agricultural Organization provides a platform where your expertise can influence the trajectory of global food security. In addition to a competitive salary of up to $174,000 USD, this role offers the chance to work with an unparalleled network of international experts. Whether you are based in a regional hub or working from home, you will be part of a team that values transparency, diversity, and technical excellence.
How to Apply
The Food and Agricultural Organization invites all qualified candidates to submit their expressions of interest via the official recruitment portal. Your application should include a detailed profile and a letter of motivation that highlights your experience as a Country and Policy Support Specialist. As we move toward the closing date of 24 March 2026, selected candidates will be invited for technical assessments and interviews.
Disclaimer: The Business Pulse shares verified opportunities from trusted sources. We are not a recruiting agency and do not request any payment for applications.
Head of Business Development, Alula Animation. With 10 years in advertising and sustained involvement in startups and entrepreneurship since graduating from business school and the School of Diplomacy and International Relations, Beloved researches and writes practical business analysis and verified job-market insights for The Business Pulse Africa.
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