Programme Policy Officer (Head of Resilience)

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 are committed to the mission of eradicating hunger and improving nutrition. WFP's vision is to create a future where every person has access to the food they need to live a healthy and active life. The organization emphasizes diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all employees are treated equally and fairly, regardless of their background or identity. WFP has been recognized for its efforts, notably receiving the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020 for its work in combating hunger and promoting peace. The organization is committed to fostering a healthy work environment that aligns with its core values of Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion, and actively encourages qualified candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply for positions within the organization.

Job Overview:
The Programme Policy Officer (Head of Resilience) will play a crucial role in managing and overseeing the operational design and implementation of resilience-building programs in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh. This position requires the development of a mid to long-term resilience strategy that integrates existing cash-for-asset activities and innovative approaches into a cohesive resilience-building program. The officer will provide technical advice on climate resilience programming, ensuring timely implementation of initiatives that support smallholder farmers and local communities. The role also involves spearheading innovative approaches in resilience-building, including the use of digital technology and financial inclusion mechanisms. The officer will be responsible for ensuring coherence and integration of resilience-building activities within WFP’s broader portfolio, supporting evidence-based decision-making through robust monitoring and evaluation systems, and managing resource allocation and budget utilization. The position demands strong leadership skills to motivate and develop an effective resilience team, as well as the ability to engage with key NGOs and partners to enhance the program's impact.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Manage and oversee the operational design and implementation of resilience-building programs in camps and host communities, expanding the program throughout Cox’s Bazar district.
• Develop a mid/long-term resilience strategy by integrating existing cash-for-asset activities and initiating innovative approaches.
• Provide technical advice on climate resilience programming, including Forecast-based Financing and anticipatory action.
• Design and implement market development strategies that support smallholder farmers and micro-enterprises.
• Spearhead innovative approaches in resilience-building, utilizing digital technology and financial inclusion mechanisms.
• Ensure coherence of resilience-building activities within WFP’s broader portfolio, including collaboration with the World Bank project team.
• Lead and manage WFP’s engagement with NGOs and partners, providing technical feedback to improve deliverables.
• Develop and lead a high-performing resilience team, providing training and mentorship.
• Establish standard operating procedures for resilience program implementation. 1
• Support evidence-based decision-making through monitoring and evaluation systems. 1
• Manage resource allocation and budget utilization, ensuring timely reporting. 1
• Lead donor engagement and proposal development for resilience programming. 1
• Represent WFP in resilience-focused coordination mechanisms and policy dialogues.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 8 years of professional experience in development and resilience-building programs, with a strong background in humanitarian operations. The ideal candidate should have demonstrated expertise in designing, implementing, and evaluating resilience programs, particularly in areas such as climate resilience, disaster risk reduction, and market-based interventions. Strong leadership skills and the ability to foster innovation and collaboration across sectors are essential. Experience in policy engagement and government capacity strengthening is also required, along with a proven track record in mobilizing financial resources and developing project proposals.

Educational Background:
A completion of an Advanced University Degree (Master's or equivalent) in fields such as Agriculture, Environmental Science, International Development, Economics, Climate Science, or Disaster Risk Management is required. Candidates with educational backgrounds in related fields will also be considered favorably.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of relevant professional experience, with at least 5 years specifically focused on the design, implementation, and evaluation of resilience programs. Candidates should have a strong understanding of climate adaptation strategies and sustainable livelihoods, as well as experience in leading multi-disciplinary teams and integrating resilience programming across various sectors.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English (Level C) is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an International Consultancy with a duration of 6 months, based in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh. The role is full-time and involves significant engagement with local communities and partners. WFP offers an attractive compensation package, and the organization is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. All employment decisions are made based on organizational needs, job requirements, merit, and individual qualifications, ensuring an inclusive work environment free from discrimination and harassment.