Programme Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the UN that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has a mission to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. With 195 Members, including 194 countries and the European Union, FAO operates in over 130 countries worldwide. The organization focuses on transforming agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable, contributing to the 2030 Agenda. FAO Country Offices provide policy advice and support, technical assistance, and capacity development while adhering to international standards of accountability. They advocate for policies and investments, assist in resource mobilization, and ensure effective operations aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework.

Job Overview:
The Programme Specialist position is located in the FAO Country Office in Nepal, where the focus is on enhancing agricultural production, strengthening food systems, promoting agri-value chain development, and fostering digital agricultural innovation. The role involves providing essential support to the FAO country programme, which includes technical capacity building, policy development, and improving nutrition" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food and nutrition security. The Programme Specialist will work under the supervision of the FAO Representative and the Assistant FAOR (Programme), contributing to the coordination and implementation of various projects aimed at achieving sustainable agrifood systems and addressing challenges such as climate change and zoonotic diseases. The position requires collaboration with government entities, development partners, and other stakeholders to ensure the successful execution of FAO's initiatives in Nepal.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Specialist will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including: supporting the coordination, formulation, and implementation of FAO country programmes/projects in Nepal; assisting with operational responsibilities in line with project agreements and FAO guidelines; preparing progress reports, financial statements, and facilitating project closure; organizing project-related events, trainings, and workshops; participating in project monitoring and field visits; preparing concept notes and project documents; maintaining data on food, crops, livestock, and project-related information; liaising with government ministries and partners; and performing other programmatic tasks as needed. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances in project implementation.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in relevant fields such as Agricultural and Rural Development, Food Security and Nutrition, Climate Change, Natural Resources Management, or International Development. Additionally, a minimum of five years of relevant experience in supporting the formulation and implementation of development and emergency projects in these sectors is required. Candidates should also have a working knowledge of English and Nepali, and must be nationals of the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal. FAO core competencies such as results focus, teamwork, communication, and knowledge sharing are essential for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in fields related to agriculture, rural development, food security, climate change, or international development. This advanced degree should be obtained from an institution recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED), ensuring that the educational qualifications meet international standards.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have at least five years of relevant experience in the formulation and implementation of development and emergency projects. This experience should encompass various aspects of project management, including planning, execution, monitoring, and closure, particularly in the context of agricultural and rural development.

Languages:
Candidates must have a working knowledge of both English and Nepali. Proficiency in these languages is crucial for effective communication and collaboration with stakeholders in Nepal. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not mandatory for this position.

Additional Notes:
FAO does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates must be medically fit for appointment and meet any residency or visa requirements. The position may involve full-time engagement, and candidates should be prepared for potential international recruitment processes. For further employment opportunities, candidates can visit the FAO employment website.