About the opportunity
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) contributes to achieving the 2030 Agenda through its Strategic Framework by supporting the transformation to more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems. The Finance Division (CSF) recommends and administers financial policies, maintains accounts, prepares reports, and ensures resources are securely kept. The Young Professionals Programme (YPP) is a recruitment initiative targeted at talented, qualified professionals who are mainly nationals of non- and under-represented countries, offering an opportunity to start a career as an international civil servant.
Salary and benefits
- Competitive compensation and benefits package based on UN salaries, allowances, and benefits
- Dependency allowances
- Rental subsidy
- Education grant for children
- Home leave travel
- 30 working days of annual leave per year
- Pension fund entitlements under the UN Joint Staff Pension Fund
- International health insurance and optional life insurance
- Disability protection
- Flexible working arrangements and family-friendly policies
Who can apply?
- Advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in finance, business, or a related field, or a first degree in similar areas coupled with a professional qualification linked to risk management or investments (CPA, CA, FRM, CFA, etc.)
- One year of relevant experience in accounting, finance, investments, or a related field
- Working knowledge (proficiency – level C) of English and intermediate knowledge (intermediate proficiency – level B) of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish)
- Candidates should be 32 years of age or younger as of 31 December of the year of application
- Targeted mainly at nationals of non- and under-represented countries, with priority consideration given to candidates from Small Island Developing States (SIDS), Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs), and developing countries in general
Required documents
- Online profile containing employment records, academic qualifications, and language skills
- Letter of motivation attached to the online profile
When to apply
- Job Posting Date: 10/Aug/2026
- Closure Date: 07/Sep/2026, 9:59:00 PM
How to apply
- Visit the recruitment website at Jobs at FAO and sign in or create an account
- Complete your online profile ensuring it is accurate, complete, and includes your employment records, academic qualifications, and language skills
- Attach a letter of motivation to your online profile
- Submit your application through the FAO recruitment portal before the closure date
Additional information
- The position is a fixed-term appointment for two years with the possibility of extension, located at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy.
- Higher educational qualifications must be obtained from an institution accredited/recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).
- All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Finance or business graduates aged 32 or younger with at least one year of relevant experience.
- Candidates holding professional certifications like CPA, CA, or CFA.
- Nationals from non- or under-represented countries, particularly SIDS, LDCs, or LLDCs.
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is based at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy.
- Applicants must be prepared for a two-year fixed-term commitment.
- Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in English and intermediate knowledge of a second UN language.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This role offers a clear pathway into an international civil service career within a major UN agency. It is an excellent fit for finance professionals looking to apply their technical skills to global development and financial oversight in a high-level, multilateral environment.
Our take
Ambitious finance professionals meeting the age and nationality criteria should apply for this career-defining role; it is not suitable for those seeking roles outside of the financial sector or those who cannot commit to a two-year on-site term.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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