Overview

The Food Security and Livelihoods (FSL) Coordinators will support the Green Climate Fund (GCF) SAP020 FSM project titled “Climate-resilient food security for farming households across the Federated States of Micronesia” in Chuuk and Pohnpei. The FSL Coordinators are responsible for ensuring links between the the FSM Department of Resources and Development (R&D), SAP020 Project Management Unit (PMU) based in FSM R&D including but not limited to State and local governments, College of Micronesia-FSM, FSM Department of Environment Climate Change, and Emergency Management (DECEM) and as well as for consolidating the project with local authorities and beneficiary communities.

Location: In Pohnpei and Chuuk, FSM Salary: US$20,000 per annum Duration: 3 years

Background

The FSM government project “Climate-resilient food security for farming households across the Federated States of Micronesia” (funded by Green Climate Fund SAP020) is a multi-year project starting in January 2022 and is the first comprehensive national effort to focus on increasing the resilience of FSM’s most vulnerable communities to food insecurity in the face of climate change. The project targets all households in the FSM high islands undertaking some form of farming approximately 68,250 direct beneficiaries (across the FSM) with 63% of HHs conducting some form of agriculture and forestry). The project specifically works to improve technical capacity and coordination for Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) planning and policy, support improved decision-making for agriculture through descaled climate information, increase availability, stability, and accessibility of locally grown food for food security, improve nutritional outcomes for vulnerable households, develop new opportunities for income and household productivity, and strengthen climate resilient value chains across the agriculture sector by implementing three interrelated components:

1. Establishing an enabling environment for adaptive action and investment: This includes institutional coordination, undertaking descaled integrated vulnerability assessments, incorporation of climate change into State and national planning and policy, developing a network of farmer associations, and disseminating tailored communications for informed decision-making. These outputs will specifically help to better target adaptation investments based on community-level vulnerabilities, improve technical capacity for climate smart planning and policy, cement political commitment and accountability for CSA, and drive informed decision-making for farmers, all of which will increase the adaptive and anticipatory capacity of FSM and lay the foundation for improved strategic planning for food security and climate resiliency.

2. Enhancing the food security of vulnerable households by introducing CSA practices: This includes establishing agroforestry systems, capacity building for extension agents, awareness building and training for FSM households, and developing reserve capacity for climate disruption. This will increase availability, stability, and accessibility of locally grown food for food security, improve nutritional outcomes for vulnerable households, develop new opportunities for income and household productivity, and drive a national change in awareness and utilization of CSA for improved resiliency.

3. Strengthening climate-resilient value-chains and market linkages across the agriculture sector: This includes the development of new markets for local agriculture, enhanced food processing and preservation, and increasing awareness and consumption of local food). This will strengthen climate resilient value chains across the agriculture sector, improve food security gaps through storage and processing, significantly transform opportunities for improved livelihoods thereby driving increased adaptive capacity, and create a strong incentive framework for local farmers to leverage CSA packages beyond the life of the project to secure a long-term shift towards improved climate resiliency with regards to food security.

Implementing Organization

The Micronesia Conservation Trust (MCT) is the Accredited Entity (AE) for the project and is responsible for supervising the implementation, financial management, evaluation, reporting and closure of the project, as well as having overall fiduciary responsibility for the project. The FSM national government, acting through the Department of R&D and DECEM, as well as COM-FSM will serve as the Executing Entities (EEs). The FSM government and COM-FSM have overall responsibility for the effective delivery of required inputs in order to achieve the expected project outputs. The FSM government is responsible for Component 1 and COM-FSM will be responsible for Components 2 and 3.

Overview of the Role

The FSL Coordinator will be hired as a consultant to manage and oversee the efficient and effective implementation of the project. Under the overall supervision of the Division of Agriculture Assistant Secretary and the GCF SAP020 FSM Food Security Project Manager through the State Food Security Focal Point, the FSL Coordinator will coordinate project activities at the state level between state and local government as well as implementing partners, local organizations, and community beneficiaries to ensure efficient and effective implementation of the project activities. The FSL Coordinator will work on the following tasks to coordinate the implementation of the project:

The FS&L Coordinator position’s main objective is “Output 1.4 Develop a network of farmer associations across the FSM” of the GCF SAP020 Climate-resilient food security for farming households across the Federated States of Micronesia”.

• Establish and support State-level farmers’ associations in communities to include both women and men

• Coordinate training on Climate Smart Agriculture

• Provide information related to climate change impacts and risks

• Organize a central farmers’ market

• Support the development of sustainable seed banks and nurseries

• Set up and license the State-level farmers’ association

• Support the development of a business plan,

• Coordinate training on financial management

• Coordinate training on leadership, management, and capacity building as well as technical training for association leaders

• Create a forum and practice for knowledge sharing and innovation exchange with the other state-level farmers’ association

• Organize and register participatory guarantee system (PGS) groups

  Relatively, the Food Security and Livelihood (FSL) Coordinator will:

1. Support and report directly to both the State Focal Point and FSM R&D

2. Liaise and follow up with the responsible parties for implementation of project activities in matters related to project funds and financial progress reports.

3. Assist the Project Manager in day-to-day management and oversight of project activities;

4. Provide objective input to progress reports;

5. Coordinate the flow of procurement requests and supporting documentation between

   PMU and state local partners in line with MCT’s Procurement Policy and Project

   Procurement Plan;

6. Ensure all project documentation (progress reports, consulting and other technical reports, minutes of meetings, etc.) are properly maintained in hard and electronic copies in an efficient and readily accessible filing system, for the state coordination Mechanism, Project management Unit and Accredited Entity (MCT).

7. Assist with local technical inputs for the work plan and budget to ensure State activities are technically sound and respond to local food security priorities and contexts;

8. Coordinate local consultations or meetings with stakeholders;

9. Follow-up on the activities of consultants and experts for the project at the state level;

10. Coordinate local consultations or meetings with stakeholders.

11. Participate in M&E exercises to appraise project success and make recommendations for modifications to the project;

12. Work with project partners in finding solutions for technical issues that might arise during the project implementation;

13. Represent the Project at meetings and other project-related within the State, as needed

14. Assist and organize meetings, arrange conferences and other activities pertaining to the

    State, as required;

15. Participate in the development of the state’s work plans and the annual budget as well as implementation;

16. Promote collaboration and knowledge exchange between local organizations/farmer

    groups.

Desired Qualifications

• A university degree (Bachelor or higher) OR 2-year college degree with at least 2 years relevant experience:

  • University degree: in a subject related to agronomy, veterinary, socio-economic, sustainable development, anthropology, geography, international development, agriculture, other related subject preferred

  • 2-year college degree with at least 2 years relevant experience: in agriculture, natural resource management and/or sustainable development; demonstrable project/progr0amme management experience; and working with government institutions that are concerned with natural resource and/or environmental management and/or sustainable development

• Familiarity with agriculture, agroforestry, food-security, climate change, climate-smart agriculture, etc. is a plus

• Experience working and engaging with various stakeholder groups, particularly with government departments, NGOs, civil society groups, etc.

• Proficient at preparing reports, giving presentations and creating other communication

  materials in English and the local language

• Strong coordination skills, experience working with and leading a wide range of stakeholders across various sectors and at all levels and an ability to create and maintain durable partnerships

• Experience in project management including budgeting, procurement and file keeping.

• Strong computer skills including use of MS Office tools, virtual meeting platforms, and effective communications via email.

• Flexibility in working schedule, including willingness to work evenings and on weekends when needed and a willingness to travel as required.

Salary

US$20,000 per annum

To Apply:

Please provide:

• Letter of Interest
• Resume
• A completed FSM Government Employment Application

Send to: (Electronic submissions preferred) Jo Lynne G. Mori
SAP020 Task Manager
Micronesia Conservation Trust

P.O. Box 2177
Pohnpei, FM 96941
jgmori@ourmicronesia.org and cc copy personnel@personnel.gov.fm and seiminmihk@rd.gov.fm with the subject line “[Last Name], [First Name] – Food Security & Livelihoods Coordinator GCF SAP020”.

A.    National Project Coordinator Job Description

 The National Project Coordinator (NPC) will work under the supervision and guidance of the Assistant Secretary of FSM R&D in collaboration with the GEF 7 International Waters Project Grant Manager: the Micronesia Conservation Trust. The NPC shall also work closely with the Project Management Unit for the full GEF 7 International Waters project, specifically the Project Manager, Finance Manager, and the Project Coordinator (also the Micronesia Challenge Regional Coordinator). This project position is based in Pohnpei, at FSM Dept. of R&D. The NPC shall oversee day-to-day management of the project activities in FSM and will be responsible for the following technical, administrative and managerial tasks:

Project Preparation & Implementation

• Operational management of activities in FSM including preparatory work and implementation of the national project activities in accordance with GEF Guidelines and the Project Document.[2]

• Regular communication and coordination with the Project Management Unit members, project partners throughout the region, FSM R&D staff, and all other stakeholders with regards to all activities within FSM.[3]

• Regular communication and coordination with the FSM Protected Area Network (PAN) Coordinator regarding matters relevant to the PAN Technical Committee members and activities.

• Oversight and supporting implementation of the relevant Gender Action Plan activities in FSM.[4]

• Engage as a liaison with the National Project Coordinators in RMI and Palau to identify and act upon opportunities for transferable lesson sharing. This liaison role could include supporting national reporting responsibilities within the project, contributing information to the communication and visioning activities for Component two, as well as helping with development of “Experience Notes” from project findings.

• Regular travel amongst the states of FSM to organize and monitor project activities; possible travel outside the country for participation in directly relevant regional meetings.

• Preparation of an annual work plan and budget and the successful and timely implementation of the plan to ensure achievement of the project outcomes and deliverables for FSM.

• Organize and manage meetings, including appointments with stakeholders/consultations, logistical arrangements and secretary support.

• Facilitate national-level working group dialogues with relevant stakeholders to share information on current challenges and policy recommendations for improved marine ecosystem health and sustainable nearshore fisheries management under the MC 2030

a.     Face-to-face consultations (at least two per year) with Project Working Group in FSM and other stakeholders, including the private sector.

b.     Virtual monthly meetings (at least 8 per year) with groups and individuals appropriate to progress the work.

• Coordinate recruitment of external consultant services to facilitate technical workshops with Project Working Group members and other key stakeholders to: (i) review and update the Protected Area Network management and coastal fisheries management to ensure alignment with the MC 2030 targets; and (ii) develop a National MC 2030 Strategic Plan for FSM based on the outcome documents from all the national meetings and workshops.

• Coordinate work product development, including meeting quarterly targets, deliverables, and reporting requirements.

• Procurement of resources as needed, including consultants or contracted contributions to working group meetings and activities.

Project Monitoring & Evaluation  

• Conduct periodic assessment of implementation progress towards achieving the intended results and outcomes for the preparation of biannual progress reports.

• Maintain a project calendar to track and monitor each activity and make adjustments as necessary to ensure the successful completion of the project in consultation with FSM R&D, MCT, and the PMU.

• Ensure effective coordination and communication with the PMU members, project partners, and other relevant stakeholders with regards to the project activities and updates to support the wider regional monitoring efforts of the project.

• Participate and provide input as needed for the independent Terminal Evaluations of the project.

 Project Reporting

• Develop a Project Work Plan for completion of national project deliverables.

• Provide timely quarterly progress reports against the project’s annual workplan and budget.

• Produce a final report reflecting the nature of the work undertaken, methodologies, indicators evaluation of the project, lessons learned and recommendations.

• Engage as a liaison with the National Project Coordinators in RMI and Palau to identify and act upon opportunities for transferable lesson sharing. This liaison role could include supporting national reporting responsibilities within the project, contributing information to the communication and visioning activities for Component two, as well as helping with development of “Experience Notes” from project findings.

 B.       Preferred Consultant Qualifications

• Associate of Science (AS) degree with at least 2 years of experience managing projects involving natural resource management, biodiversity conservation, or another field with direct relevance to the project, preferably in the FSM

• Basic technical understanding of natural resources management

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with a broad range of stakeholders

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively under close supervision, as well as under minimal supervision

• Superior skills in organization and management, including past experience with planning, tracking, evaluation, and supervision of consultants and/or employees

• Close familiarity with the operations and rules of the GEF is not a requirement but will be viewed with favor

• Fluency in English, in reading, writing, and speaking, and preferably in languages relevant throughout the FSM as well

It may be necessary to occasionally consider adjustments to the job description in response to the dynamic nature of our work environment – including technological requirements or statutory changes.

C. Position Duration: The position will be for the remainder of the project duration—through January 31, 2026. The NPC is a full-time position.

D. How to Apply: To apply, submit the following items to Shirley Ann Pelep (spelep@ourmicronesia.org) and Winfred Mudong (wmudong@ourmicronesia.org):

• Resume

• Cover Letter

• 3 References and their contact information

E. Closing Date: Until filled

 For any inquiries, please contact Shirley Ann Pelep and Winfred Mudong at the email addresses provided above or at 320-5670.

Background Information

Micronesia Challenge 2020

In 2006, the leaders of the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Republic of Palau, Guam, and the Northern Mariana Islands committed to effectively conserve at least 30% of the near-shore marine resources and 20% of the terrestrial resources across Micronesia by 2020. We now see many of these types of commitments globally but at the time it was made it was, and still is, globally significant as it was a high-level political commitment made by heads of government, and directly addressed the perceived lack of engagement from political leaders in conservation-related efforts across the region.

Micronesia Challenge 2030

During the 24th Micronesia Island Forum in 2019, the Leaders recognized the success in the first 15 years of the Micronesia Challenge and endorsed the new Micronesia Challenge 2030 goals to effectively manage 50% of marine resources, including the exclusive economic zone (EEZ), and 30% of terrestrial resources by 2030. The goal now also includes a larger voice for fisheries management, reducing invasive species, restoring habitats, increasing livelihood opportunities and reducing risks to communities from climate impact in Micronesia (See full MC 2030 target language in Appendix A).

About this project

The Global Environment Facility International Waters project titled “Strengthening and Enabling the Micronesia Challenge 2030”[1] builds on the Micronesia Challenge 2030 (MC 2030) conservation, community benefit, and process targets, recognized by MC 2030 partner jurisdictions including the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI), Republic of Palau, the U.S. Territory of Guam and the U.S. Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI). The project aims to enhance national and regional marine resource management towards the Micronesia Challenge 2030 targets through three Components. The first component focuses on supporting FSM, RMI and Palau as they develop national policies, plans and tools to support national integrated management of marine resources under Micronesia Challenge 2030 targets. The second project component— implemented through the Micronesia Conservation Trust and the Micronesia Challenge Regional Office—aims to strengthen the capacities, communication, and planning to ensure regional coordination of the MC 2030. The third project component focuses on monitoring and evaluation, knowledge management and communication of knowledge products generated through the project, including through IW:LEARN.

Within the scope of Component 1, each partner nation (RMI, FSM, Palau) will pursue and provide four specific outputs:

1.1.1: National policy gap analysis to identify priority pathways for achieving MC 2030 targets on marine protected area planning and coastal fisheries management approaches

1.1.2: National working group meetings including key national and regional stakeholders, including the private sector to deliver Output 1.1.3 and 1.1.4

1.1.3: National plans, strategies, and policy recommendations to integrate marine protected area planning and fisheries management approaches

1.1.4: National Micronesia Challenge 2030 Strategic Plan

The National Project Coordinator will facilitate completion of national activities designated for FSM R&D within project component one, act as a liaison for regional activities conducted under project component two, and assist or lead engagement with community or stakeholder members through the remaining duration of the project (through February 28, 2025).