Organizational Setting

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations leading international efforts to defeat hunger and achieve food security for all.
The FAO Türkiye Office (FETUR) supports national priorities in agriculture, food systems, and rural development through technical assistance, capacity development, and institutional strengthening.
In this context, FAO is implementing the project “Türkiye One Health Shield: Strengthening Pandemic Preparedness Through Integrated Response”, in collaboration with national stakeholders and partners, including the World Health Organization. The project aims to strengthen Türkiye’s capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to health threats through a One Health approach, integrating human, animal, and environmental health systems.
The One Health Project Coordinator will support the implementation of project activities and contribute to strengthening multisectoral coordination mechanisms.

Reporting Lines

The One-Health Project Coordinator will work under the direct supervision of the Assistant Representative of FAO Turkiye (AFAOR) and the overall supervision of the Subregional Coordinator for Central Asia and FAO Representative in Türkiye, and under the technical guidance of the Senior Animal Production Health Officer and in collaboration with FAO Türkiye team led by AFAOR.

Technical Focus

The One Health Project Coordinator will focus on strengthening multisectoral coordination and institutionalization of the One Health approach in Türkiye through a comprehensive and integrated framework. Key areas of focus include supporting the establishment and operationalization of governance mechanisms, enhancing coordination among relevant ministries and stakeholders, and facilitating the development and implementation of national One Health strategies and action plans. The role will contribute to the advancement of integrated surveillance and early warning systems, including data-sharing and digital coordination platforms, as well as the strengthening of laboratory systems and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) surveillance capacities. In addition, emphasis will be placed on workforce development and capacity building across sectors, while promoting effective risk communication, stakeholder engagement, and sustainable coordination mechanisms to ensure long-term impact and resilience.

Tasks and responsibilities

•     Coordinate and support the implementation of project activities in line with FAO procedures and donor requirements
•     Facilitate multisectoral coordination among relevant ministries and stakeholders, including supporting inter-ministerial dialogue and collaboration mechanisms
•     Support the establishment and operationalization of the National One Health Coordination Mechanism, including governance structures and technical working groups
•     Contribute to the development of Terms of Reference (ToR), coordination protocols, and relevant institutional frameworks
•     Support the development and revision of national One Health strategies, action plans, and preparedness frameworks
•     Support legal and regulatory analyses and support the development of policy and legislative discussions
•     Support the development of integrated surveillance systems and coordination of data-sharing mechanisms across sectors
•     Contribute to the design and use of digital tools and platforms for coordination, monitoring, and knowledge sharing
•     Support the implementation of monitoring, evaluation, and reporting processes, including tracking progress, identifying risks, and contributing to donor reporting
•     Facilitate the organization of capacity development activities, including trainings, workshops, and simulation exercises
•     Support workforce and institutional capacity assessments and contribute to strengthening national systems
•     Coordinate stakeholder engagement with government institutions, academia, and international partners
•     Support the preparation of technical reports, communication materials, and knowledge products
•     Represent the project in relevant technical meetings and coordination platforms, as required
•     Perform other related duties as required

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements  

•     Advanced university degree (Master’s or PhD) in veterinary medicine, food safety, environmental health, public health, or related fields
•     At least 7 years of relevant professional experience in One Health, food safety, veterinary health, environmental health, or related areas
•     Working knowledge of English (Level C) and Turkish.
•     National of Türkiye

FAO Core Competencies

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

Technical/Functional Skills

•     Strong experience in One Health or multisectoral health programmes
•     Experience working with international organizations (UN agencies preferred)
•     Knowledge of public health, animal health, and environmental systems
•     Experience in project coordination, implementation, and reporting
•     Experience in stakeholder engagement and inter-institutional coordination
•     Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills

Selection Criteria

•     Advanced academic qualifications (MSc/PhD) in relevant disciplines
•     Experience in international or multi-partner projects
•     Experience in policy development, governance, or coordination mechanisms
•     Experience in surveillance systems, laboratory systems, or AMR is an asset
 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION