Organizational Setting

The project “Enhancing Food Security and Nutrition in Lebanon” (043/CAN) supports smallholders, cooperatives, and agri-MSMEs in the apples and vegetables value chains through technical assistance, collective-action strengthening, capacity development, and improved access to inputs and services.

Within this framework, FAO Lebanon will develop and pilot an inclusive rural finance model to unlock working capital and small assets for targeted value chains while reinforcing farmer groups and cooperative structures. The model will align with national counterparts (MoA/GDC) and engage financial service providers and value-chain partners to test practical, low-risk mechanisms (clear product parameters, simple SOPs, light monitoring) that are gender-responsive, climate-smart, and that safeguard against over-indebtedness.

This position operates within FAO Lebanon (PIU), with day-to-day technical coordination with ESP (Rural Finance) to ensure consistency with FAO guidance on rural financing. The assignment localizes tools, supports field assessments, validates feasibility with partners, and helps launch and follow up on the pilot in target districts.

Reporting Lines

Under the overall supervision of the FAO Representative, the direct supervision of the Liaison and Resilience Officer and the program lead ( output 1), and in consultation with the Senior Policy Officer/Head of the RISE Team (ESP), the incumbent will work under the technical guidance of the Rural Finance Officer and in coordination with other FAO units involved in the delivery of matching grants.

Technical Focus

The Agricultural Finance Specialist will translate agro-economic analysis into practical financing solutions by co-designing product parameters, localized Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and risk controls with partners, and supporting a gender-responsive, climate-smart pilot targeting farmer groups, cooperatives, and agri-MSMEs.

Tasks and responsibilities

The incumbent will:
•     Conduct assessments of agricultural finance ecosystem, including supply-demand dynamics, institutional capacity, regulatory frameworks and market infrastructure.
•     Identify opportunities to enhance financial inclusion and propose interventions that address gaps and constraints
•     Support the design and implementation of agricultural finance programmes and instruments, including product development, operational procedures, risk management frameworks and performance monitoring systems.
•     Ensure alignment with international best practices, sustainability principles and FAO corporate guidelines.
•     Promote synergies and resource mobilization to expand rural financial services.
•     Provide technical assistance and training to financial institutions, producer organizations, and partners on agricultural lending methodologies, value chain financing approaches, digital finance solutions, and sustainable financial service delivery models. Document experiences, analyze results, and disseminate knowledge products to inform policy dialogue, support evidence-based decision-making, and contribute to the global body of knowledge on agricultural and rural finance
•     Perform any other related duties as required to ensure effective project implementation.

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements    

•     University degree in agricultural economics, finance, development economics, agribusiness management, or closely related field. A first-level university degree in combination with additional years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.
•     Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible professional experience in agricultural finance, rural finance, or development finance, with demonstrated expertise in designing and implementing financial programs for agricultural and rural development. Experience should include practical involvement with various financial instruments and delivery mechanisms such as microfinance, value chain finance, warehouse receipt systems, agricultural insurance, or digital financial services
•     Working knowledge (level C) in Arabic and English (spoken and written).
•     National of Lebanon or resident with valid work permit

FAO Core Competencies

•     Results Focus
•     Teamwork
•     Communication
•     Building Effective Relationships
•     Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement

Selection Criteria

•     Experience with a UN Agency or International NGO is desirable.
•     Familiarity with computers and Microsoft Suite.
•     Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to work in complex, multi-stakeholder environments. Proven experience in partnership development, capacity building, and knowledge management. Understanding of agricultural production systems, value chains, and rural development dynamics. Familiarity with international development practices and donor procedures is an asset.
•     Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with demonstrated ability to work effectively in multicultural teams and communicate complex financial concepts to diverse audiences. Proficiency in written and spoken English is required. Knowledge of other relevant languages is an advantage
•     Proven skills of report writing and communication