Senior Policy Specialist – Syria

About the role

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is seeking a Senior Policy Specialist to support the Syrian Agricultural Strategy and broader agricultural recovery efforts. Based in the FAO Country Office in Syria, the role provides strategic policy advice to the Ministry of Agriculture and coordinates FAO’s technical support.

Key responsibilities

• Deliver high‑level policy and strategic advisory services to the Syrian Ministry of Agriculture and its policy units.
• Lead the implementation and coordination of the Syrian Agricultural Strategy, sector recovery planning, and investment programming.
• Strengthen institutional capacities through technical assistance, training, and knowledge sharing.
• Facilitate partnership building, resource mobilization, and coordination with FAO regional experts and project teams.
• Monitor and evaluate policy outcomes, ensuring alignment with FAO’s strategic framework and UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Required profile

• Advanced university degree in agriculture, economics, public policy, or a related field.
• Extensive experience (minimum 8 years) in agricultural policy development, strategic planning, and advisory roles, preferably in conflict‑affected or developing contexts.
• Proven ability to work with government ministries, international organizations, and multi‑stakeholder platforms.
• Strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills, with fluency in English; Arabic proficiency is an advantage.

Required skills