Project Coordinator

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 individuals committed to humanitarian efforts. The organization emphasizes diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal employment opportunities for all employees, regardless of race, gender, or background. WFP is also a 2020 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, reflecting its significant contributions to global humanitarian efforts. The organization invests in the personal and professional development of its employees through various training and mentorship programs, fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment.

Job Overview:
The Project Coordinator position at WFP involves supporting the strategic roll-out of localized governance and decentralization initiatives in collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs (MLGCA) and the Fiscal Decentralization Division (FDD). The role requires the development of statutory guidelines and standard operating procedures to harmonize Chiefdom Development and Land Use Plans, ensuring alignment with customary law. The Project Coordinator will also oversee the transformation of customary institutions, facilitate policy dialogues, and provide technical expertise to sub-national governments. This position is crucial for ensuring effective service delivery and participatory planning processes, ultimately contributing to the successful implementation of multi-year and multi-sectoral programs.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Advise on the decentralization roll-out strategy, collaborating with MLGCA and FDD to strengthen governance frameworks.
• Develop and implement statutory guidelines for Chiefdom Development Committee governance.
• Coordinate the formulation of Chiefdom Development and Land Use Plans in partnership with the Ministry of Lands and District Councils.
• Manage the NN-Facility, appraising and approving proposals from Chiefdom Development Committees (CDCs).
• Strengthen inter-linkages between customary institutions and sub-national governments to enhance service delivery.
• Facilitate policy dialogue through a Multi-Stakeholder Government Body, addressing environmental challenges based on evidence and accountability.
• Provide technical backstopping to District Councils for participatory assessments of CDCs and develop capacity strengthening plans.
• Train sub-national government staff in localization, environmental governance, and participatory planning.
• Conduct regular technical oversight missions to ensure project compliance with EU requirements. 1
• Coordinate partnerships with NGOs and Cooperating Partners to align activities with the EU regional Nature Africa programme.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a multicultural environment. Proficiency in project management and experience in governance and decentralization processes are essential. Candidates should demonstrate excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and have a proven track record of engaging with government entities and stakeholders. Familiarity with environmental governance and participatory planning methodologies is highly desirable. Additionally, candidates should be adaptable, proactive, and capable of managing multiple tasks effectively.

Educational Background:
A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in social sciences, public administration, environmental studies, or a related field is required. A master’s degree in a relevant discipline is preferred and may be considered an asset. Candidates should have a strong academic background that supports their understanding of governance, project management, and humanitarian assistance.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of relevant professional experience in project coordination, governance, or humanitarian assistance. Experience working with government agencies, NGOs, or international organizations is highly desirable. Proven experience in managing complex projects and engaging with diverse stakeholders is essential. Familiarity with the local context and challenges in Sierra Leone will be an advantage.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Sierra Leone is considered an asset and may enhance communication with local stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role based in Freetown, Sierra Leone. The contract duration is subject to organizational needs and funding availability. WFP offers a competitive compensation package, including benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development. The organization is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.