Our core values
IFAD looks for people who focus on results with integrity and professionalism, while respecting and promoting diversity.
Frequently Asked Questions about IFAD employment - IFAD
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Frequently Asked Questions
© IFAD/Flavio Ianniello
Are there any restrictions on who can apply for a job at IFAD?
IFAD recruits only nationals of IFAD Member States. Fluency in English is essential; knowledge of another IFAD official language (Arabic, French or Spanish) and/or any other language may be necessary depending on the position.
What are the grade levels of positions at IFAD?
IFAD is a UN specialized agency and adopts the UN common system staff categories.
Do I have to apply through IFAD's online recruitment system?
For all advertised job openings, you must apply through the IFAD Careers Centre. Please refer to the Careers Centre FAQ for any technical questions about applying for vacancies.
How many job openings can I apply to?
You are free to apply to as many job openings as you wish. However, you are encouraged to apply to opportunities for which you meet all mandatory minimum requirements.
Can I send an unsolicited application?
No. IFAD will not consider unsolicited applications.
Do I have to pay to submit an application?
No. IFAD does not charge a fee or request banking information at any time during our recruitment process. IFAD does not sponsor any organizations or programmes claiming to be recruiting on our behalf. Victims of scams are encouraged to contact [email protected] and may also report scams to local law enforcement agencies.
How do I register as a consultant?
You may register as a consultant through the IFAD Careers Centre. Once registered, you can update the information at any time via the ‘My Application’ link.
How do I apply to the internship programme?
You may apply to the Internship Programme through the IFAD Careers Centre. If you experience any difficulties, please refer to [email protected].
What if I miss the deadline to apply?
Applications must be submitted by the stated closing date. Any applications received after the deadline will not be accepted through the online system. If you experience any technical difficulties, please refer to the Careers Centre FAQ or contact [email protected].
How long does the selection process last?
The selection process can last from two to four months.
Will I be informed of the status of my application?
Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications, IFAD only contacts candidates who are under consideration for positions. You can also check the status of your applications through the Careers Centre.
How can I recognize official communications coming from IFAD?
All official communications from IFAD are sent from e-mails ending in @ifad.org.
In what areas does IFAD hire?
IFAD's employment areas include rural and agricultural development; gender, youth and indigenous issues; natural resource management; rural and micro-finance; local infrastructure development; international law; financial and risk management; environment and climate change; business administration; general administration; monitoring and evaluation; nutrition and food security; research and development; development economics; accounting and budgeting; knowledge management and communications; private and public partnerships; audit, oversight and ethics; information technology and human resources.
What qualities does IFAD look for in candidates?
In addition to the qualifications and competencies specific to each vacancy, IFAD looks for people who share our core values. These individuals focus on results with integrity and professionalism, while respecting and promoting diversity. IFAD also looks for dynamic and adaptable people who are not afraid to be creative, proactive, flexible and responsive, and who are fair, impartial and honest.
Does IFAD offer flexible and/or remote working arrangements?
IFAD has provisions for flexible working arrangements, including flexible working hours, part-time employment, job-sharing and teleworking. Depending on the role, staff may avail of such arrangements, noting that these are not entitlements.
How does IFAD support employees’ health and wellbeing?
IFAD has a staff well-being programme which includes training, coaching and counselling opportunities. IFAD also has a Medical Services Unit based in its Headquarters with specialized medical staff available to support staff.
Furthermore, IFAD has a zero-tolerance approach to sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, hate speech and racism, abuse of authority and discrimination. All IFAD personnel are expected to adhere to IFAD’s code of conduct and support IFAD's Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Strategy.
What actions is IFAD taking to ensure diversity, equity and inclusion?
Diversity, equity and inclusions (DEI) underpin IFAD's core values, vision and mission. Since 2021, IFAD has implemented a DEI Strategy to foster a supportive work environment, enable close monitoring of key indicators and policies to support DEI and recognize the diverse nature of IFAD's membership and workforce.
What is IFAD's approach to staff performance?
To get the best from our people, IFAD promotes an ongoing feedback process, in which both the supervisor and staff member have an active role in sustaining performance through continuous and constructive dialogue. IFAD’s Rewards and Recognition Programme celebrates and motivates our people, while the Staff Awards Initiative recognizes individual and collective contributions to our mission.
Are there opportunities for advancement within IFAD?
IFAD supports career development with competitive recruitment, mobility, learning and training opportunities.
Are there mobility opportunities?
IFAD is a decentralized organization and requires professional level staff to be geographically and functionally mobile, for example through transfers, temporary assignments and mobility within the UN Common System.
What compensation and benefits does IFAD offer?
IFAD is part of the United Nations Common System and offers a competitive remuneration package with salary scales and benefits in line with the United Nations common system.
