Organizational Setting

The Liaison Office with the United Nations in Geneva is responsible for the liaison with the Government of Switzerland, the country’s civil society and the International Organizations based in Geneva, Switzerland. Considering the presence of a large number of international organizations, Member States and Non-Governmental Organizations, which provides a significant platform for engagement and partnership with key stakeholders, the Liaison Office i) ensures that relevant FAO Governing body decisions and the overall work of the organization are brought to the policy dialogues, mechanisms and relevant discussions in Geneva; ii) promote and raise awareness on FAO’s technical work and activities, among Member States and Organizations in Geneva, and the general public; iii) serve as the focal point for Member States that are accredited to FAO from Geneva.

The position is located in Geneva, Switzerland.

Reporting Lines

The incumbent will work under the overall supervision of the Director of the FAO Liaison Office, Geneva, Switzerland.

Technical Focus 

Ensure achievement of the Liaison Office’s objectives in the area of private sector engagements with efficient coordination and support to activities related to the Organization’s mandate.

Tasks and responsibilities

Private Sector Engagement

•    Help and maintain engagement with Swiss private sector entities, e.g. agribusiness companies, multinational corporations, trading companies, banks, insurance companies, and trade associations, which work on food security, nutrition, and sustainable agriculture.
•    Facilitate dialogue between FAO and private sector stakeholders, ensuring alignment with FAO’s policies and objectives.
•    Engage with international organizations, NGO’s, industry associations, think tanks, and other relevant actors to foster a deeper understanding of FAO’s goals in the private sector and build collaborative networks.
•    Monitor progress and reports on ongoing engagements and partnerships with private sector entities, including updates in the related corporate systems.

Strategic Partnership Development

•    Identify and assess opportunities for collaboration with the private sector to support FAO’s initiatives in food security, sustainable development, and the fight against hunger.
•    Contribute to developing Swiss private sector engagement strategy.
•    Facilitate the development and implementation of partnership agreements in close consultation with PSU, such as Letters of Intent (LoIs) or Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) with private sector entities.

Policy and Advocacy

•    Contribute to the development of FAO’s strategies and policies regarding private sector engagement.
•    Support and participation at meetings, forums, and conferences, with relevance to FAO and its private sector strategy.
•    Build awareness among private sector actors to improve their contribution to sustainable food systems.
•    Advocate for FAO’s mission and programs by highlighting the role of the private sector in achieving global food security and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
•    Engage private sector partners in discussions on sustainability, including practices related to carbon emissions, sustainable supply chains, and responsible investment in agriculture.

Monitoring, Reporting and Internal Alignment

•    Monitor and evaluate the outcomes of private sector partnerships and collaborations according to FAO tools and guidelines, ensuring alignment with FAO’s strategic objectives.
•    Prepare reports, briefs, and presentations on private sector engagement activities, outcomes, and challenges for internal FAO stakeholders and external audiences.
•    Serve as an internal advisor to FAO colleagues on matters related to private sector collaboration and partnerships.
•    Identify and promote best practices in private sector engagement. Contribute to the development of stories, lessons, documents and presentations of FAO’s approach to engaging with the private sector as requested

•    Perform any other duties as required by Director LOG

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements

•    University degree in Agriculture, Social or Political Sciences, Law, Economics, Public Administration, International Relations or related field relevant to the work of the Organization
•    At least 3 years of relevant experience in development work and /or designing and managing projects, interacting with social partners and with governments, international organisations, research institutions, civil society and the private sector
•    Working knowledge of English

FAO Core Competencies

•    Results Focus
•    Teamwork
•    Communication
•    Building Effective Relationships
•    Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement

Technical/Functional Skills

•    Work experience in more than one location or area of work is an advantage
•    Strong understanding of communication skills as a key output of his/her work
•    Demonstrated technical ability in analysing agricultural trade and market developments, trade and investment, trade and intellectual property rights, and impact on developing countries
•    Depth of knowledge of FAO’s programmes and priorities is considered a strong asset
•    Strong understanding of food security issues in relation to agriculture and food trade policies

Selection Criteria

•    Advanced University degree in social or political sciences, international relations, public relations or related field relevant to the work of the Organization would be an asset.
•    Working knowledge of German will be considered as an asset.