Programme Officer

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 core values include Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion, which guide its operations and interactions with partners and communities.

Job Overview:
The Programme Officer will play a crucial role in coordinating the implementation of food assistance projects, ensuring that they align with WFP's policies and standards. This position involves collaborating with government counterparts to develop plans and tools, managing the NN-Facility, and providing technical support to community planning processes. The officer will also conduct regular oversight missions to ensure quality programming at the field level. The role requires a proactive approach to policy and program activities, focusing on effectively meeting food assistance needs and contributing to the development of various projects and plans. The Programme Officer will be expected to engage with District Councils and Chiefdom Development Committees, ensuring that all processes are participatory and inclusive, and that they adhere to WFP's operational guidelines.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Officer's responsibilities include contributing to the development of diverse projects and plans, providing strategic guidance on engagement with local councils, and managing specific programs of considerable size and complexity. The officer will oversee the development of Chiefdom Development Plans (CDPs) and Chiefdom Land Use Plans (CLUPs), ensuring that participatory processes are followed. Additionally, the officer will develop and coordinate data gathering and monitoring systems, conduct research and analysis on policy and operational issues, and prepare timely reports on programs and activities. Liaising with WFP field staff, local authorities, and other stakeholders is essential to promote integrated local development planning and ensure adherence to project Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). The officer will also support the identification and management of partnerships to enhance food assistance packages and contribute to the capacity building of WFP staff and partners.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in International Affairs, Economics, Nutrition/Health, Agriculture, Environmental Science, Social Sciences, or a related field relevant to international development assistance. Alternatively, a first university degree with additional years of relevant work experience and/or training may be acceptable. The role requires deep technical knowledge, leadership experience in implementing programs, and the ability to contribute to policy discussions and decisions.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree is preferred, but candidates with a first university degree and significant relevant experience may also be considered. The educational background should be in fields related to international development, such as International Affairs, Economics, Nutrition, Agriculture, Environmental Science, or Social Sciences.

Experience:
Candidates should have a demonstrated level of experience in program management, particularly in the context of food assistance or humanitarian work. Experience in engaging with government entities and local communities, as well as a track record of contributing to policy development, is highly desirable. The role may require prior experience in managing complex projects and leading teams.

Languages:
Fluency in 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 open to Sierra Leone Nationals only. The WFP offers a competitive compensation package that will be determined based on the contract type and the selected candidate's qualifications and experience. The organization emphasizes an inclusive and diverse work environment and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. Candidates are encouraged to ensure their application profiles are complete and accurate, including employment records, academic qualifications, and language skills. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.