Grants Management Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is a specialized agency that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has over 194 member countries and works in more than 130 countries worldwide. The organization aims 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. In Afghanistan, FAO is focused on resilience-building actions across all 34 provinces, emphasizing the protection of agricultural livelihoods and local ecosystems, boosting local production of nutritious foods, and safeguarding critical agricultural sector development gains achieved over the past decades. FAO's work in Afghanistan is guided by the 2024 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan (HNRP) and the United Nations Strategic Framework for Afghanistan (UNSFA) 2023-2027, particularly under the priority of Economic Opportunities and Resilient Livelihoods.

Job Overview:
The Grants Management Officer will play a crucial role in supporting the grant management platform of FAO in Afghanistan. This position involves overseeing the entire lifecycle of grant applications, from preparation and publication of Calls for Applications to the management of grant agreements and compliance with FAO’s financial rules. The incumbent will work closely with national counterparts and FAO technical units to ensure that all grant applications are processed efficiently and transparently. The role requires a strong understanding of grant management processes, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to communicate effectively with various stakeholders, including applicants, beneficiaries, and internal teams. The Grants Management Officer will also contribute to the development of training materials and workshops aimed at enhancing the capacity of potential applicants and beneficiaries regarding grant procedures and reporting requirements.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Grants Management Officer will be responsible for a comprehensive set of tasks, including but not limited to: supporting the preparation and publication of Calls for Applications; managing the receipt, registration, and categorization of grant applications; maintaining a tracking system for all applications; participating in Technical Committees for eligibility screening and scoring; ensuring proper archiving of evaluation documentation; communicating with shortlisted applicants; drafting and administering Grant Agreements; coordinating with Operations and Finance Units for payment requests; maintaining updated records of grants; monitoring the progress of approved grants; conducting desk reviews and field-based verifications; reviewing narrative and financial reports; tracking compliance issues; compiling analytical and progress reports; organizing training sessions; providing guidance on grants management; developing guidance notes; updating the grant management platform; producing periodic reports; liaising with various units; ensuring coordination with FAO Regional Offices; supporting communication with stakeholders; participating in lessons learned workshops; and identifying areas for improvement within the Grants Management Unit.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in management, accounting, economics, agribusiness, or a related field. A minimum of 4 years of relevant experience in grant projects within UN or international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) is required. Additionally, candidates must demonstrate a working knowledge of English (Level C) and proficiency in a local language, either Dari or Pashto. Nationality as an Afghan citizen is also a requirement.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in a relevant field such as management, accounting, economics, or agribusiness. It is essential that the degree is obtained from an institution accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
The position requires at least 4 years of relevant experience in grant management projects, preferably within the context of UN agencies or INGOs. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing grant processes and working effectively in complex environments.

Languages:
Proficiency in English at a working knowledge level (Level C) is mandatory, along with fluency in a local language, either Dari or Pashto. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
The FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or processing. 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 aware that the FAO is committed to ensuring a diverse and inclusive workplace.