Strategic & Special Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries, employing thousands of staff members who work tirelessly to ensure that effective humanitarian assistance reaches millions of people globally. WFP is recognized for its commitment to diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The organization was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020 for its efforts to combat hunger and promote peace.

Job Overview:
The Strategic & Special Assistant plays a pivotal role in supporting the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director (CD) and the Country Leadership Team at WFP in Yemen. This position is designed for a highly skilled individual who can provide strategic, operational, and coordination support to enhance the effectiveness of the CD's office. The assistant will be responsible for facilitating communication across the Country Office, supporting strategic planning, and ensuring that the CD is well-equipped with the necessary analysis and insights to lead effectively in a complex operational environment. The role requires a proactive approach to monitoring political, humanitarian, and operational developments, translating these into actionable insights for the leadership team. The assistant will also be involved in high-level meetings and engagements with various stakeholders, ensuring effective follow-up and relationship management.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Strategic & Special Assistant include providing high-level operational, planning, managerial, and coordination support to the Country Director. This involves monitoring key developments in the political and humanitarian landscape, preparing briefing documents, and supporting the CD in high-level meetings with donors and government counterparts. The assistant will coordinate activities within the CD’s office, manage the CD’s agenda, and ensure smooth communication across the Country Office. Additionally, the role includes preparing high-quality reports, speeches, and correspondence for both internal and external audiences, maintaining confidentiality and discretion in handling sensitive information, and performing other related duties as required by the CD.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in international relations, development studies, communications, political science, humanitarian affairs, or a related field. They should have a minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible experience in humanitarian or development contexts, preferably within international organizations. Demonstrated experience in strategic advisory roles, executive support, or coordination functions at senior levels is essential, along with a proven track record in managing cross-functional processes and preparing high-level communications.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in relevant fields such as international relations, development studies, communications, political science, or humanitarian affairs. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of humanitarian operations and the strategic objectives of WFP.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible experience in humanitarian or development contexts. Candidates should have experience in strategic advisory roles, executive support, or coordination functions at senior levels, particularly in complex emergency settings or fragile contexts. A strong background in managing cross-functional processes and supporting senior leadership is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written communication in English is mandatory. Knowledge of an additional United Nations language would be considered an advantage, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to WFP's global mission.

Additional Notes:
This position is not open to Yemeni nationals and is required for a period of 11 months, with the possibility of extension based on operational needs and funding availability. The role is classified as a consultancy contract, which will be subject to a mandatory break in service after 11 continuous months. WFP offers an attractive compensation and benefits package in line with its HR Manual. Applications must be submitted online in English, and candidates are advised to provide clear details of their job TOR and years of experience for each role. The recruitment process emphasizes inclusivity and prohibits any form of discrimination or harassment.