FAO Representative (FAOR)

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations established to lead international efforts to defeat hunger. With a mission to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all, FAO ensures that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. Founded in 1945, FAO has grown to include 195 members, comprising 194 countries and the European Union, and operates in over 130 countries worldwide. The organization focuses on assisting governments in developing policies, programs, and projects aimed at reducing hunger and malnutrition, enhancing agricultural, fisheries, and forestry sectors, and promoting sustainable use of environmental and natural resources. FAO Country Offices play a crucial role in implementing field projects, assessing disaster impacts, and facilitating collaboration with various stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and civil society organizations.

Job Overview:
The FAO Representative (FAOR) is responsible for managing the FAO country program, office, resources, and staff in Liberia. Reporting to the director-general" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Assistant Director-General/Regional Representative, the FAOR works closely with the Regional Leadership Team and is supported by technical, administrative, and operational staff from regional and headquarters offices. The FAOR's primary focus is to lead FAO's response to national priorities and sustainable development challenges, advocating for actions that accelerate the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The role involves representing FAO in national forums, facilitating access to FAO's knowledge resources, and leading emergency response efforts in collaboration with the government and UN Country Team. The FAOR is also tasked with developing the Country Programming Framework (CPF) and ensuring effective implementation and monitoring of FAO programs in alignment with national priorities and the UNSDCF.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The FAOR's duties include representing FAO to national authorities and stakeholders, advocating for FAO's policy positions, and implementing a proactive communications strategy. The FAOR is responsible for leading emergency response preparedness and coordination, developing the CPF and Country Work Plan, analyzing the country situation, and advising on resource mobilization efforts. The FAOR must ensure effective management of programs, monitor compliance with corporate policies, and oversee the implementation of FAO projects. Additionally, the FAOR is responsible for managing the Country Office, ensuring the safety and security of personnel, and promoting staff development and welfare. The role requires maintaining effective internal controls, improving financial information reliability, and ensuring adherence to FAO's ethical standards and policies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as agriculture, forestry, fishery, or rural development. A minimum of ten years of relevant experience in planning, formulation, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of field programs is required. Candidates should have a working knowledge of English (proficiency - level C) and intermediate knowledge of another official FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) (intermediate proficiency - level B).

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in areas related to FAO's activities, such as agriculture, forestry, fishery, or rural development. This advanced degree is essential for understanding the complexities of food security and agricultural development.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least ten years of relevant experience, particularly in planning, formulating, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating field programs. Experience in multiple locations or areas of work, especially in field positions, is essential. The candidate's experience should encompass both programmatic areas and fostering relationships with government entities.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with a requirement for intermediate knowledge of another official FAO language such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish. This linguistic capability is crucial for effective communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Monrovia, Liberia, and involves significant responsibilities in managing the FAO Country Office. The role is expected to be full-time, with a focus on both development and humanitarian issues. Candidates should be prepared for potential international travel and collaboration with various stakeholders, including government agencies and international organizations. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with FAO's policies and standards.