National GEF Projects Operation and OPIM Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is dedicated to achieving security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensuring that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. Established in 1945, FAO has grown to include 194 member countries and the European Union, with its headquarters in Rome, Italy. The organization operates in over 130 countries, providing expertise and support in various areas including agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and rural development. FAO Timor-Leste specifically supports the government and national partners in implementing projects financed by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), focusing on climate change adaptation, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable resource management.

Job Overview:
The National GEF Projects Operation and OPIM Coordinator will play a crucial role in the operational coordination and oversight of the FAO Timor-Leste GEF portfolio. This position emphasizes effective management of operational partnerships, execution arrangements, fiduciary compliance, and delivery support. The coordinator will work closely with various stakeholders, including government ministries, operational partners, and project management units, to ensure that GEF projects are implemented efficiently and in alignment with FAO and GEF procedures. The role requires a strong focus on monitoring project budgets, tracking expenditures, and ensuring timely reporting and compliance with established guidelines. The coordinator will also support the preparation of project documentation and facilitate communication among all parties involved in the projects.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: coordinating funds transferred to operational partners, ensuring compliance with agreements and work plans; liaising with government ministries and civil society organizations to facilitate project implementation; monitoring project budgets and expenditures; reviewing and consolidating project documentation; tracking co-financing and partner contributions; supporting risk mitigation and assurance plans; providing operational and administrative support to project teams; preparing project reports and updates; and facilitating communication among stakeholders to resolve implementation challenges. The coordinator will also contribute to knowledge sharing and capacity development related to project operations and reporting processes.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in fields such as business administration, public administration, finance, project management, or environmental management. A minimum of five years of relevant experience in project operations, financial coordination, or related work is required, preferably in development or climate-related programs. Candidates should demonstrate strong coordination and communication skills, as well as the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders. Familiarity with donor-funded project implementation and risk management is essential.

Educational Background:
A university degree in a relevant field such as business administration, public administration, finance, project management, development studies, natural resources management, environmental management, agriculture, or economics is required. The degree must be from an accredited institution recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
Candidates should have at least five years of relevant experience in project operations, administration, financial coordination, partner coordination, or project implementation support. Experience in externally financed development, climate, environment, or natural resources programs is preferred. The ability to consolidate work plans, budgets, and reports is essential, along with experience working with operational partners and government institutions.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English and Tetum is required for this position. Knowledge of Portuguese and/or Bahasa Indonesia would be considered an asset, enhancing communication with a broader range of stakeholders and partners involved in the projects.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Dili, East Timor, and candidates must be nationals of Timor-Leste or residents with a valid work permit. FAO does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates must also meet medical fitness requirements and any residency or visa requirements. The organization emphasizes the importance of compliance with its rules and regulations, including those related to fiduciary oversight and risk management.