Policy outreach consultant - National Consultant

About IRRI The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) is dedicated to reducing poverty and hunger through rice science; improving the health and welfare of rice farmers and consumers; and protecting the rice-growing environment for future generations. IRRI is an independent, nonprofit, research and educational institute, founded in 1960 by the Ford and Rockefeller foundations with support from the Philippine government. The institute, headquartered in Los Baños, Philippines, has offices in 17 rice-growing countries in Asia and Africa, and over 1,000 staff.

Working with in-country partners, IRRI develops advanced rice varieties that yield more grain and better withstand pests and disease as well as flooding, drought, and other harmful effects of climate change.

Job Purpose The objective of this assignment is to support the strengthening of the public sector's role in engaging the private sector for the successful implementation of NDC in the agricultural sector, specifically in rice production in Vietnam. The broader goal is to enhance public-private sector partnerships in climate action.

The consultant is expected to support the policy outreach activities to attain the three specific objectives of the Vietnam NDC project:

1. Evaluate the prevailing context of carbon mitigation in rice production of Vietnam and scope out policy entry points for promoting win-win approaches in NDC’s implementation in agriculture;
2. Co-develop together with Vietnamese partners and stakeholders’ policy approaches and institutional mechanisms promoting synergies between climate change adaptation and mitigation goals, and other co-benefits; and
3. Estimate carbon market potential in the rice sector and develop a strategy to involve the private sector in materialising this potential.

Roles and Responsibilities • Evaluate the current context of carbon mitigation in Vietnam's rice production and identify policy entry points;
• Co-develop with local stakeholders and partners institutional mechanisms to align adaptation and mitigation goals;
• Support the estimation of carbon market potential and develop a strategy to engage private sector participation;
• Draft reports, slide decks, and documentation based on field and policy dialogues;
• Facilitate policy workshops and contribute to decision-making support materials.

Qualifications - PhD in agricultural/development/public economics or a related field;
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in agriculture, natural resource management, or climate change-related policy;
- Deep understanding of Vietnam’s agricultural climate change policy landscape;
- Demonstrated success in conducting policy outreach and working with government and stakeho

Skills Required - Expertise in agricultural economics, public policy, or development studies;
- Strong analytical, facilitation, and stakeholder engagement skills;
- Excellent written and spoken English and Vietnamese;
- Ability to develop strategic policy materials and communicate effectively with a range of stakeholders.