ETHIOPIAN AGRICULTURAL TRANSFORMATION INSTITUTE (ATI)

Ethiopian Food Systems and Nutrition Transformation,

Technical Support Unit

Position:   Cluster 5 Coordinator: Access to Markets, Market information, and Specialization ( Re-Advert)

Term of Employment:       One year with a possibility of extension

Duty Station(s):                 Addis Ababa Ethiopian                     

Required Number:            One

Application Deadline:      September 12,2024

Background: Ethiopian Food Systems and Nutrition Transformation (EFSN)

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a comprehensive plan for people, the planet, and prosperity, aim to strengthen universal peace and greater freedom. It acknowledges that eradicating poverty in all its forms and dimensions, including extreme poverty, is the most significant global challenge and an essential prerequisite for sustainable development. The United Nations Secretary-General has convened the UN Food Systems Summit (UNFSS), a crucial platform designed to assist member states in driving food systems transformation and accelerating global progress towards the SDGs. Ethiopia is an active participant in the UNFSS and has developed its own food system transformation. In this context, the role we are offering is of utmost importance and offers a unique opportunity to contribute to these global efforts.

The Ethiopian Food Systems and Nutrition (EFSN) transformation pathway has 24 game-changing solutions and is structured around three pillars of governance: federal, Regional, and Partnerships. Each pillar, including the private sector, research institutions, universities, civil society organizations, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), and the general public, plays a crucial role across the food systems chain. The Inter-Ministerial Steering Committee (IMSC) is a body consisting of 15 ministries. Effective coordination, a key aspect of this role, is essential to align the efforts of different individuals, groups, or departments toward a common goal. Ethiopia is fully committed to transforming its food system. 

Moreover, the Agricultural Transformation Institute (ATI), a key player in the Ethiopian Food Systems and Nutrition (EFSN) Transformation, has been chosen as the secretariat, overseeing the work of the Technical Support Unit (TSU). As part of the TSU, the incumbent will be at the forefront of this transformation, providing crucial technical support and contributing to its overall success. 

This position presents a distinctive chance for personal and professional advancement. It involves collaborating with a team of experts in a dynamic and demanding setting. We are seeking individuals who are eager to grow and contribute to our transformative work. By joining our team, the incumbent will contribute to the achievement of the national efforts to transform Ethiopian food systems and SDGs.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Cluster Coordinator is an integral part of the TSU and will be responsible for providing technical assistance to key actors in the EFSN, with a specific focus on Cluster-specific responsibilities. The Cluster Coordinator supports the planning and coordination of efforts across EFSN's 24 Game-changing solutions and coordinates engagements between the Interministerial Steering committees, Cluster Working Groups, specialized teams (such as M&E, socialization, etc.), and regional implementation status. The Cluster Coordinator will support the Principal Coordinator. 

The Cluster Coordinator is expected to strengthen the program’s focus and approach by linking the EFSN with the specific thematic focus of the clustered areas, including broad national priorities. He/she is expected to work with key stakeholders to ensure that the EFSN is accepted and increasingly institutionalized within the stakeholders. 

The Cluster Coordinator is expected to work closely with the TSU team; Regional Coordinators oversee the implementation of game-changing solutions to promote the strategic growth of the country's food system.

The successful applicant is expected to be driven and dynamic, have a problem-solving mindset, and have excellent communication skills. This role presents a unique opportunity to engage with key players in the food and nutrition ecosystem, both local and international.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead and guide the strategic direction and implementation of the Ethiopian Food Systems and Nutrition Transformation agenda; and analyze national, regional, and global food systems trends that might affect the EFSN transformation pathways and recommend solutions/possible actions;

• Support and guide Cluster working groups, contribute to the TSU's day-to-day activity, strengthen the capacity of the TSU staff, and build a strong, cohesive, and dynamic team.

• Coordinate and support the implementation of the game-changing solutions across the seven clusters of the EFSN; socialize the EFSN among stakeholders, undertake diagnostic works and implementation plans to ensure the goals of the EFSN are realized;

• Support and guide the TSU team to engage in high-visibility activities with stakeholders, the public, and the media; disseminate key food systems-related lessons; identify and engage food systems stakeholders across a range of sectors in agriculture, nutrition, health, climate, economics, and education, including donors, national and international NGOs and associations, and civil society organizations.

• Contribute to and provide expert views on the food systems, background papers, talking points, and other correspondence for the secretariat and the co-chairs as requested.

• Represent the EFSN in public events, task forces, working groups, etc., on food systems, food security, and social sector activities.

Job Requirements

Required qualifications, competencies, skills, training, and experience:

• Master’s or PhD Degree in economics, business management, supply chain management, development studies, or other relevant fields.

• Minimum 12 years for Masters and 6 years for PhD directly relevant professional experience in development studies, international development, or agriculture, with a nutritional focus out of which 6 years is in leadership and managerial position.

• Demonstrated national and/or international experience in multi-sectoral coordination, inter-disciplinary and multi-cultural leadership, and communication, as well as deeper knowledge of the Ethiopian economy.

• A strong research and operational leadership experience.

• Adequate experience in translating complex technical material and research findings into tools that support evidence-based decision-making;

• Strong verbal and written communication skills, at least in Amharic and English, to interact with various individuals, including elected and government officials, development partners, the public, and key stakeholders.

How to Apply

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

We invite all candidates meeting the required qualifications to send (i) a cover letter and (ii) a CV (maximum of three pages) at THIS LINK

Also, please DO NOT submit certificates with scans on your application form. 

Women are highly encouraged to apply.

NB. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.