Biovision, a Swiss non-profit foundation certified by ZEWO, has been supporting the adoption of science-based agroecological farming practices for a targeted fight against poverty and a sustainable improvement of living conditions in Africa. In our Advocacy Programme, we are currently looking for a:
Policy Development Specialist / Project Manager (70% - 80%); immediately or upon agreement
The advocacy team is implementing activities with the purpose to enhance the legitimacy and acceptance of agroecology within the scientific, donor and policy-maker community. Focus lies on the promotion of systemic research and evidence-based initiatives on agroecology to support a strong basis for international, regional and national policy-making in agriculture and food systems in line with the 2030 Agenda. We will also foster an enabling policy environment at national and international level for enhanced research and practice in the field of agroecology to hedge against climate change.
In this context, your tasks and responsibilities include:
- Project development and implementation to strengthen the case for systemic research and agroecology in line with latest science and evidence
- Planning and implementation of effective advocacy activities to reach relevant decision makers in the field of science, policy and the donor community
- National policy support for the implementation of agroecology, sustainable agricultural practices and sustainable food systems (focus on Sub-Saharan Africa)
- Networking and sensitization among public and private investors in the field of agricultural research (both national and international)
- Networking, fundraising and proposal development
We are looking for a dynamic and motivated team player with several years of work experience in agroecological practice or systemic agricultural research (ecological, social and economic dimension). Sound knowledge on the contribution of agroecology to climate change adaptation and mitigation is required. A solid understanding of the functioning of food systems, preferably in Sub-Saharan Africa, is key. It is further important to be knowledgeable in international political work, including the Agenda 2030.
Further requirements are:
- A solid background in food systems or a related field of natural science (at least Master Degree) as well as working experiences in development cooperation.
- An engaging, adaptable, solution-oriented personality with high social and intercultural skills and strong persuasive power, used to tailoring appearance and interventions to different environments
- Ease in the communication with people from a high-level political, scientific or economic background
- Experience in the coordination of projects in complex political and diplomatic environments
- Readiness to travel frequently (mainly in Sub-Saharan Africa)
- Excellent command of English (oral and written) as well as good communication and writing skills in French and basic German
Workplace is preferably Zurich, Switzerland (other workplaces could be evaluated on a case-by-case basis). We offer an important position in a dynamic team, commensurate wages and adequate social security.
Please send your entire electronic application documents until February 16th, 2018 to bewerbungen@biovision.ch
For further information, please contact Ms Azadeh Jassemi, at +41 44 512 58 44 (reachable at the office from Monday to Thursday).