National Multi-Sector NAP Development Expert

About the role

FAO, in collaboration with the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) and funded by the Green Climate Fund, runs a NAP readiness project in Sierra Leone to strengthen climate-risk management in key adaptation sectors. The project seeks a national expert to lead the development and validation of a comprehensive, inclusive, climate-informed multisectoral National Adaptation Plan (NAP). The expert works under the direct supervision of the Assistant FAO Representative in Sierra Leone, with support from the Senior Technical Adviser and the project management unit.

Key responsibilities

• Develop a comprehensive, multi-sectoral NAP aligned with national development goals and international commitments such as NDCs, in close cooperation with EPA and other key actors.
• Assess current and projected climate risks and vulnerabilities across the seven key sectors, including risk levels, priority zones, affected communities and critical systems.
• Hold inclusive, participatory consultations with stakeholders from national to local levels to validate risks, share contextual knowledge and propose adaptation solutions.
• Identify climate-sensitive development priorities, review existing policies and plans, and develop a NAP roadmap in consultation with EPA, FAO and the NAC.
• Appraise and integrate sector-specific adaptation strategies into the NAP, and enhance institutional and technical capacities for adaptation planning, including climate risk and vulnerability assessment.
• Prepare draft and final NAP documents, monitoring, evaluation and reporting frameworks with indicators, and periodic and final reports on progress, outcomes, challenges and lessons learned.
• Produce seven sector-specific technical briefs, one overarching policy brief, and an abridged version of the NAP and communication materials for the wider public.
• Coordinate the delivery of the Communication Action Plan and maintain liaison with the Office of Communications to ensure compliance with FAO standards and clearance processes.

Required profile

• Master's degree in climate change, environmental science, natural resources management, rural development or related fields.
• At least 5 years of professional experience in climate change adaptation planning and policy formulation, sectoral vulnerability and risk assessments, or multi-stakeholder consultation and coordination.
• National of Sierra Leone or resident of the country with a valid work permit.
• Working knowledge of English and any local language; fluency in English is required.
• Preferred: proven experience developing and implementing NAPs or NAPAs, experience with government agencies and development partners, and familiarity with GCF readiness procedures.

Required skills

• Knowledge of multi-sector NAP development and vulnerability assessments.
• Strong analytical, strategic planning and coordination skills.
• Excellent communication and facilitation skills, able to work with government, civil society and the private sector.
• Ability to work independently with strong organizational skills.