We are looking for a senior agricultural policy advisor
The Netherlands Embassy in Sofia is looking for a senior agricultural policy advisor. Are you interested? Respond before July 29, 2022.
We are looking for an enthusiastic and result-oriented colleague with knowledge of the agricultural sector in Bulgaria and the Netherlands, the circular economy and sustainable agri-food production and policy. We offer a dynamic, international and inclusive working environment with opportunities to learn and develop yourself.
You are part of the Dutch Agricultural Network
Based in Sofia, Bulgaria, you will report to the Agricultural Counsellor in Bucharest, Romania. Together you are part of the Dutch Agricultural Network of the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality in the Netherlands.
This network maintains intensive contacts with authorities, Dutch and local business communities, knowledge institutions and civil-society organisations around the globe.
With a focus on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s), the Agricultural Network connects Dutch agricultural companies and knowledge institutions to partners and projects in order to strengthen the international position of Dutch agribusiness.
The network supports policy development, dialogue and (bilateral and multilateral) cooperation in the field of sustainable agriculture, nature / biodiversity, food safety, food security and fisheries. Trade promotion, stimulating Dutch investments abroad, and promoting market access for Dutch agri-food products and knowledge and technology are also core tasks of this network.
You and your colleagues in this international network are actively searching for opportunities for Dutch agricultural business, knowledge institutions and policymakers, by being in direct contact with relevant players and through communication via reports, newsletters, social media and the website www.agroberichtenbuitenland.nl.
Job description
The senior Agricultural Policy Advisor in Bulgaria:
- Identifies, establishes and maintains independently and proactively a relevant network of contacts with government organizations, knowledge institutions, sector organizations, business community and civil society organizations.
- Identifies, collects, analyzes, interprets and reports on developments in agriculture (including plant and animal health), nature, food and fisheries in Bulgaria that are important for the policy development of the Dutch Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality.
- Identifies, organizes and evaluates bilateral cooperation projects in the field of sustainable agri-food production, circular agriculture, nature and environment, food safety and food security and does this in consultation with governmental organizations, knowledge institutes and other relevant organizations.
- Collects and provides market information, local (veterinary and phytosanitary) legislation, regulation and analyses for Dutch agri-food business with the aim of market development in the working area.
- Organizes official visits, trade and policy missions, seminars / webinars, workshops, trade fair activities, networking events and other activities, including suggesting (Dutch) speakers for activities organized by Bulgarian stakeholders to share Dutch knowledge and expertise.
- Participates in seminars and networking opportunities and (re-)presents Dutch interest and policy.
- Keeps track of trade requests, activities and contacts in the relevant databases.
- Writes articles for www.agroberichtenbuitenland.nl/landeninformatie/bulgarije
- Reports proactively to the Agricultural Counsellor who carries final responsibility.
Job requirements
General
- Master degree.
- 5 years of relevant work experience.
Knowledge
- Knowledge of the agricultural policy areas, relevant legislation and regulations and agricultural business, sector organizations and knowledge institutes.
- Knowledge of the Bulgarian government structure, society, current agricultural policy developments and trading position.
- Knowledge of the EU Common Agricultural Policy and agro-environmental policy, as well as knowledge about veterinary and phytosanitary legislation.
- An appropriate network of contacts in relevant fields is an advantage.
- Excellent verbal and written command of Bulgarian and English is required.
Skills
- Good communication skills.
- Natural networking skills with the capacity to build, maintain and expand a network of contacts in all relevant fields and on all levels.
- Proactive and able to work independently.
- Ability to analyse and translate insights and information into policy recommendation, works plans and reports.
What do we offer?
We are offering a full-time appointment (36,5 hours) in a dynamic international team. It is a local contract according to the regulations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands. The contract will be for a period of 1 year, after proven capability a multi years contract will be possible. Gross salary is dependent upon education and experience.
Diversity and inclusion
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands is an inclusive employer with a focus on diversity. We want to make sure that every team is composed of staff with diverse views, backgrounds and personal characteristics such as age, culture and sexual or gender orientation. We will also work to ensure that local staff at our missions abroad reflect the society in their country.
Are you interested?
You can send your application letter and your CV to sof@minbuza.nl before July 29. This e-mail address can also be used to get additional information. Expected starting date: 1 October 2022.