National Professional Officer (Aromatic Plants Expert)

FAO; Saudi Arabia; On-site; SAR 50,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a National Professional Officer specializing in aromatic plants to contribute to sustainable agricultural development in Saudi Arabia. This role involves coordinating with government authorities and stakeholders to implement innovative agronomic practices, enhancing the production and trade of aromatic plants. The successful candidate will leverage their expertise to support the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture in achieving its goals aligned with the Saudi Vision 2030. Join a dynamic team dedicated to fostering sustainable practices and making a meaningful impact in the region's agricultural landscape.

Qualifications

• Minimum five years' experience in aromatic plants development or rural agricultural projects.
• Proficient in Arabic and intermediate English.

Responsibilities

• Advise and liaise with government authorities and represent FAO in meetings.
• Coordinate with stakeholders for smooth implementation of activities.
• Develop partnerships to promote best practices in aromatic plants production.

Skills

Aromatic Plants Development

Agronomy

Project Management

Communication

Team Collaboration

Education

Advanced Degree in Plant Production

Advanced Degree in Agronomy

Job description

Organizational Setting
The Programme Management Unit (PMU) of the FAO Saudi Technical Cooperation Programme (2019-2025) facilitates, coordinates, and manages all technical and advisory services provided by FAO to the Saudi Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MoEWA). The project UTF/SAU/051/SAU, titled 'Strengthening MoEWA's Capacity to Implement the Sustainable Rural Agricultural Development Programme,' is the first approved within the FAO-Saudi Technical Cooperation Framework (2019-2025). It aims to support MoEWA in implementing its flagship sustainable rural agricultural development programme aligned with Saudi Vision 2030's National Transformation Programme. The project encompasses nine components, including development of coffee Arabica, beekeeping, rose trade, sub-tropical fruits, small-scale fisheries and livestock, rain-fed cereals, value addition, and natural resource management.

The position is based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, within the Programme Management Unit of the FAO Saudi Technical Cooperation Programme.

Reporting Lines
The National Professional Officer (Aromatic Plants Expert) reports to the Chief Technical Advisor (CTA) and works closely with the Technical Adviser of the Rose Production and Trade component.

Technical Focus
Programme development, management, coordination, and operational support, leveraging knowledge of local conditions, culture, language, and institutions in Saudi Arabia.

Key Results
Effective management and coordination of programme and project support.

Key Functions

• Advise and liaise with government authorities, local, national, and international institutions; represent FAO in inter-agency meetings.
• Promote FAO's mandate and programmes; develop communication tools; share knowledge and resources; support FAO regulatory frameworks.
• Maintain and coordinate country data on food, agriculture, and natural resources; monitor policy changes affecting agriculture.
• Produce technical, economic, and policy studies; contribute to development frameworks like CPF and UNSDCF.
• Formulate, monitor, and review programme and project proposals; ensure activities align with work plans and address issues promptly.
• Supervise and train lower-grade staff; ensure adherence to procedures and accuracy.
• Perform additional duties as required.

Specific Functions

• Coordinate with the National Project Coordinator and stakeholders to ensure smooth implementation of activities, contractual arrangements, and address issues.
• Assist in aromatic plants/roses sector review and diagnostics for sustainable development.
• Support the identification, pilot testing, and promotion of sustainable agronomic practices for rose and jasmine cultivation.
• Develop a catalogue of pests and diseases; implement integrated pest management programs.
• Establish and operate nurseries and tissue culture labs for healthy seedling production.
• Co-lead preparation of progress reports, lessons learned, and recommendations for performance improvement.
• Facilitate exposure visits and knowledge exchange with regional/global partners.
• Contribute to technical reports, manuals, guidelines, and knowledge products.
• Develop partnerships to promote innovation and best practices in aromatic plants production and trade.
• Support social and market research, including gender mainstreaming and youth participation studies.

Minimum Requirements

• Saudi national.
• Advanced degree in plant production, agronomy, or related field.
• Minimum five years' relevant experience in aromatic plants development, trade, or rural agricultural projects.
• Proficient in Arabic (Level C); intermediate English (Level B).

Competencies & Skills

• Results-oriented, team player, effective communicator, relationship builder, committed to learning and improvement.
• Experience in multiple locations, especially in field positions, is desirable.
• Understanding of UN/FAO programme management, policy analysis, data collection, and project formulation.

Application Details
Job posting date: 19 March 2025
Application deadline: 16 April 2025, 04:59 AM
Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Position: N-3, Fixed-term one year with possible extension
Post number: 2007870
FAO is committed to diversity and encourages qualified women, nationals from underrepresented countries, and persons with disabilities to apply.

FAO adheres to the highest standards of integrity and conducts background checks for all candidates. All applications are confidential. The incumbent may be reassigned as needed to meet organizational priorities.

FAO aims to support sustainable, inclusive, resilient, and efficient agri-food systems aligned with the 2030 Agenda, ensuring no one is left behind.