FAO Representative in Tanzania at FAO January 2026

About FAO

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) leads global efforts to eliminate hunger and improve nutrition. With 195 Members, FAO operates in more than 130 countries, supporting the transformation of agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable in line with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

FAO is committed to environmental sustainability, diversity, integrity, and professional conduct. The organization applies a zero-tolerance policy toward sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment, discrimination, and abuse of authority.

Organizational Setting

FAO Country Offices support governments in developing and implementing policies, programmes, and projects related to food security, agriculture, fisheries, forestry, and sustainable natural resource management. These offices are led by FAO Representatives (FAORs), who serve as the primary liaison between FAO, national governments, development partners, and the United Nations system.

This position is based in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

Reporting Lines

The FAO Representative reports to the Assistant Director-General / Regional Representative and works under the technical guidance of the Subregional Coordinator, where applicable. The role also involves close collaboration with the UN Resident Coordinator, the UN Country Team, and the Humanitarian Country Team in support of the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF).

Technical Focus

The FAO Representative leads FAO’s response to national development priorities, advancing the Sustainable Development Goals through the FAO Strategic Framework and Country Programming Framework. The role includes leadership of FAO contributions to national policy dialogue, programme implementation, emergency preparedness, and development coordination.

Key Results

Effective leadership and management of the FAO Country Office
Strong representation of FAO with government, donors, UN agencies, and partners
Delivery of high-quality programmes aligned with national priorities and FAO strategies

Key Functions

Representation and Advocacy
Represent FAO to government authorities, partners, and stakeholders
Advocate FAO policy positions in national forums and media
Support UN joint communications and coordinated delivery of the 2030 Agenda

Country Programming and Strategic Leadership
Lead development and implementation of the Country Programming Framework
Contribute to UN Common Country Analysis and UNSDCFs
Advise FAO headquarters and regional offices on country priorities

Partnerships and Resource Mobilization
Develop partnerships with governments, donors, NGOs, and UN agencies
Lead country-level mobilization of extrabudgetary resources
Support joint UN resource mobilization initiatives

Programme Implementation and Oversight
Ensure effective programme and project implementation and monitoring
Serve as budget holder for entrusted national projects
Ensure timely and accurate reporting and risk management

Office, Human Resources, and Financial Management
Manage human, financial, and operational resources efficiently
Ensure compliance with FAO policies, ethics, and zero-tolerance standards
Promote staff development, gender equality, safety, and environmental responsibility

Minimum Requirements

Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in agriculture, forestry, fisheries, rural development, or related fields
At least 10 years of relevant experience in planning, implementing, and managing field programmes
Proficiency in English (level C) and intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language

Leadership Competencies

Results focus
Strategic thinking
Communication
Partnering and advocacy
Leading and empowering others
Knowledge sharing and continuous improvement

Technical and Functional Skills

Experience managing country-level programmes
Strong background in government relations and policy dialogue
Demonstrated experience in resource mobilization
Experience in emergency, recovery, and rehabilitation programmes

Conditions of Service

Competitive UN salary and benefits package
30 working days of annual leave
Pension under the UN Joint Staff Pension Fund
International health insurance and disability protection
Education grant, rental subsidy, and dependency allowances (subject to eligibility)

Important Notes

FAO does not appoint representatives to their country of nationality
Appointment is subject to medical clearance, security checks, and verification
Only applications submitted through the FAO recruitment portal will be considered

How to Apply

Apply online through the FAO recruitment portal
Complete an accurate and detailed profile
Attach a letter of motivation
Submit the application well before the deadline

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Click here to Apply