Chemonics Regional Food Security Specialist Job in Kenya

Famine Early Warning Systems Network (FEWS NET)
Regional Food Security Specialist - Pastoral Livelihoods
Chemonics International Inc., a leading international consulting firm based in Washington, D.C., seeks experienced professionals for the Famine Early Warning Systems Network (FEWS NET III) project. FEWS NET is the world’s premier provider of high quality food security analysis and early warning. Created in response to the 1984 famines in East and West Africa, this $200 million, five-year activity (2012 - 2016) aims to collaborate with international, regional, and national partners to provide timely and rigorous early warning and analysis of potential, emerging, and/or evolving food security issues in order to inform appropriate humanitarian response. The project currently covers 31 countries, with plans to expand over the coming five-year phase.
Chemonics International Inc. is looking for individuals who have a passion for making a difference in the lives of people around the world and demonstrate leadership, versatility, and integrity in their work. This is a local-hire position based in Nairobi, Kenya with some international travel in sub-Saharan Africa, Europe, and the United States. Interested candidates should send their CV and cover letter to
KenyaLivelihoods@gmail.com by 25th April 2013.
FEWS NET food security analyses, early warning of threats to food security, and food assistance decision-support depend on the understanding of livelihoods and household economies. There is a need to understand pastoral livelihoods better to be able to provide more accurate information on their food security and livelihoods. The Regional Food Security Specialist-Pastoral Livelihoods (RFSS/PL) will work with the FEWS NET team and partners to execute regional activities in pastoral livelihoods. The RFSS/PL will contribute to providing high-quality and effective early warning of threats to food security with special focus on the pastoral areas of the region. The RFSS/PL will support the preparation of regional decision-support products; provide technical assistance and build capacity to conduct relevant livelihoods analysis both inside and outside of FEWS NET.
The main activities of the RFSS/PL will include, but are not limited to:Monitoring, analysis, and reporting Maintain a knowledge base about pastoral livelihoods in the region, livestock holdings and the impact on vulnerability/resilience to draught and food security. Provide early warning of threats to food security through the effective communication of actionable food security analysis. Fulfill monthly reporting requirements including writing reports and providing briefings to partners.Technical capacity development and guidanceCollect and analyze food security data related to pastoral livelihoods. Collaborate with regional and international partners in food security monitoring and analysis through the implementation of the Integrated Phase Classification (IPC) protocols. Build the pastoral livelihoods analysis skills for FEWS NET staff and partners. Contribute to other FEWS NET information products and methods development.Leadership, representation, and liaisonParticipate in strategic planning for the region, assist in coordinating regional activities, and oversee livelihoods activities. Liaise with regional partners in exchange of information and promote a dialogue on pastoral livelihoods issues pertaining to food security.
Contribute to activities undertaken outside FEWS NET that aim to enhance capabilities in pastoral livelihoods work.Work with USAID missions to support broad food security efforts including Feed the Future programs. Assist the RTM in carrying out other technical, management, and representational functions of the regional office upon request.
The RFSS/PL will work under the technical direction and supervision of the Regional Technical Manager (RTM). S/He may be required to supervise technical assistants and short-term consultants and act as interim RTM when delegated by the RTM. The RFSS/PL will assist the RTM in providing technical oversight for national technical managers of the region. The RFSS/PL will be required to travel intensely within his/her region of posting, and some international travel may be required.At minimum, a masters degree in a discipline that is directly relevant to household/food economy and food security, including economics, agricultural economics, social science, etc.;At least five years of relevant regional experience in an Household Economic Approach (HEA)-related field with direct applications in food security and early warning;At least five years of experience working with food security information systems, food security analysis, pastoral livelihoods, food security in the context of conflict, and other related fields;Demonstrated ability to effectively conduct rapid assessments, focus group discussions, key information interviews, and other rapid rural appraisal techniques;Demonstrated ability to work and coordinate effectively with partners and stakeholders;Excellent computer, communication, analytical, and report-writing skillsAdditional desired qualificationsExperience working with USAID;GIS and mapping skills; andSupervisory, management, and donor coordination experience.The successful candidate must be able to speak, read, and write final reports in English and the local/regional language(s).
Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

View the original article here