Senior Advisor to the President & Vice President

Organizational context: The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is a specialized UN agency dedicated to eradicating rural poverty and hunger by investing in rural people. The Office of the President and Vice-President (OPV) provides strategic oversight, direction, and leadership to the organization, acting as the primary liaison with member states, UN agencies, and IFIs. OPV leads strategic plan implementation, champions new initiatives, and oversees corporate services.

Job purpose: To provide strategic advice, coordinate operations, and monitor corporate agenda items for the Office of the President and Vice-President. The role involves offering technical and operational support, keeping IFAD's vision and values at the forefront of decision-making, and ensuring effective communication and consensus-building among senior managers.

Responsibilities: Provide senior-level advice on corporate policy and strategy; coordinate and monitor activities, including workflow and administration; support partnership building and represent the Office externally; act as an agent of change by promoting transformation and managing stakeholder consultations; perform managerial functions including people management, budget oversight, and upholding IFAD's core values, gender equality, and work-life balance.

Education: Advanced university degree in a technically relevant area (e.g., Business Administration, Agriculture, Rural Development, Economics, Social Sciences). A first-level degree with additional relevant professional experience may be accepted.

Work experience: At least eight years of progressively relevant professional experience, including within international financial institutions, development cooperation agencies, or the UN system. Three years of experience in a multicultural organization providing global support. A strong track record in rural development is required.

Skills: Strategic thinking, problem-solving, decision-making, team working, advocacy, risk management, stakeholder management, strategy implementation, policy dialogue, change management, client orientation, confidentiality, discretion, corporate approach, initiative, good judgment, interpersonal skills, leadership, political acumen, specialized communication skills, project/programme management, excellent drafting and written communication skills. Proficiency in AI-enabled tools is a plus.

Required languages: English (Excellent)

Desired languages: French, Spanish, or Arabic (Good)