Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO): Innovation Hub Coordinator for Eastern Africa (Consultancy, Nairobi, 11 Months Renewable) – Apply Now
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The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is inviting qualified professionals to apply for an exciting consultancy opportunity as an Innovation Hub Coordinator for Eastern Africa. Based in Nairobi, Kenya, this 11-month renewable role sits within FAO’s Office of Innovation (OIN) and plays a central role in advancing sustainable agrifood systems across the region.
FAO is a leading United Nations agency dedicated to achieving food security, improving nutrition, and promoting sustainable agriculture worldwide. Through its Strategic Framework aligned with the 2030 Agenda, FAO works toward better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life for all. This position offers a unique chance to contribute to those goals while working in a dynamic, international development environment.
About the Role
The Innovation Hub Coordinator will lead regional efforts to strengthen agrifood innovation ecosystems in Eastern Africa, particularly under the MAINSTREAM project. This initiative focuses on scaling agroecological innovations and building resilient, inclusive agricultural systems across sub-Saharan Africa.
Working closely with FAO teams, government counterparts, and regional partners, the coordinator will ensure alignment between national and regional activities. The role combines project management, technical leadership, and stakeholder engagement, making it ideal for professionals experienced in agricultural innovation and development programmes.
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Key Responsibilities
In this role, you will oversee project planning, coordination, and implementation. This includes organizing inception activities, managing work plans and budgets, and ensuring timely delivery of milestones. You will also coordinate partner organizations, facilitate workshops, and prepare reports for FAO and donors.
From a technical perspective, the position requires ensuring quality and consistency in innovation processes, supporting agroecological transition assessments, and contributing to the development of regional innovation portfolios. You will also help design and promote hub services that support innovation scaling and capacity building.
Stakeholder engagement is another critical component. You will build partnerships with governments, civil society, research institutions, and private sector actors. The role involves organizing multi-stakeholder platforms and collaborating with regional and international organizations to strengthen innovation networks.
Additionally, you will contribute to knowledge management by developing technical materials, supporting outreach content, and sharing insights across FAO platforms and partner networks.
Who Should Apply
This position is best suited for professionals with a strong background in agricultural innovation systems, rural development, agroecology, or related fields. Candidates should hold an advanced university degree (at least a Master’s level), although those with a bachelor’s degree may qualify with additional experience.
Applicants must have at least five years of relevant experience, particularly in project management within international contexts, facilitating multi-stakeholder processes, and working with regional programmes. Strong communication skills and full proficiency in English are required, while knowledge of French is considered an advantage.
FAO is looking for individuals with expertise in innovation scaling, policy engagement, and ecosystem-based approaches. Experience in sub-Saharan Africa and familiarity with agricultural innovation systems in the region are highly desirable.
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Why This Opportunity Matters
This role offers more than just a consultancy—it provides a platform to influence sustainable agriculture across an entire region. You will contribute to transformative projects that address food security, environmental sustainability, and inclusive development.
Working with FAO also means joining a globally respected organization that values integrity, diversity, and professional excellence. The organization promotes a collaborative environment where innovation and knowledge-sharing are at the core of its operations.
Application Process
Interested candidates must apply through the FAO recruitment portal by completing an online profile and submitting a motivation letter. Ensure your application includes detailed information about your academic background, professional experience, and language skills.
FAO emphasizes transparency and fairness in its recruitment process. Applications are treated confidentially, and selected candidates undergo rigorous background checks. Importantly, FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of recruitment.
The deadline for applications is 19 May 2026, and early submission is strongly encouraged.
Final Thoughts
If you are passionate about agricultural innovation, sustainability, and regional development, this opportunity with the is worth serious consideration. The Innovation Hub Coordinator role offers the chance to work at the intersection of policy, research, and community impact—driving meaningful change in Eastern Africa’s agrifood systems.
