Investigator

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the Inspector-General (OIG) is a vital component of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), dedicated to ensuring integrity and accountability within the organization. Established to provide oversight through internal audits and investigations, OIG plays a crucial role in addressing misconduct and promoting ethical standards. The office investigates allegations of various forms of misconduct, including fraud, corruption, and harassment, ensuring that FAO personnel and third parties adhere to the highest standards of conduct. OIG's mission extends to preparing reports for senior management, offering insights and recommendations to enhance the integrity of FAO's operations. The organization operates globally, reflecting its commitment to maintaining ethical practices across all its programs and initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Investigator position within the OIG's Investigation Branch (OIGI) is designed to support the intake and investigation of serious allegations of misconduct involving FAO personnel and third parties. This role is critical in ensuring that complaints are handled in accordance with established procedures and relevant rules. The Investigator will work under the supervision of more senior investigators, contributing to the planning, organization, and execution of investigations. The position requires a proactive approach to analyzing incoming complaints, conducting interviews, and reviewing evidence to determine the validity of allegations. The Investigator will also be involved in preparing reports and recommendations that aid management in decision-making processes and help improve internal controls to prevent future violations of FAO policies. This role is essential for maintaining the integrity of FAO's operations and ensuring accountability within the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Investigator will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: supporting the intake analysis of incoming complaints by reviewing information and obtaining additional details from complainants; assisting in the planning and conducting of investigations at FAO headquarters or decentralized offices; performing preliminary reviews of complaints and allegations; conducting interviews with personnel and third parties; reviewing documentary and electronic evidence; analyzing facts and organizing evidence; preparing investigative reports and other outputs; contributing to policy-related initiatives; conducting basic research and analysis; participating in outreach activities such as training workshops and seminars; and maintaining OIG records and databases. The role demands a thorough understanding of investigative processes and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders to ensure effective outcomes.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in law or a related field associated with criminal or administrative investigations. Alternatively, candidates with a first-level university degree in these fields may be considered if they have two additional years of relevant work experience in fact-finding or investigatory work, along with a professional qualification to practice law in a national or state jurisdiction. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of three years of relevant experience in fact-finding or investigatory work, particularly in areas related to employee misconduct, fraud, and corruption. A strong understanding of investigation techniques and procedures is essential, as is the ability to analyze legal and procedural issues.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in law or a related field that focuses on criminal and administrative investigations. Candidates with a first-level university degree may also be considered if they have the requisite additional experience and qualifications. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of legal and procedural frameworks relevant to investigations.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant experience in fact-finding and investigatory work. This experience should preferably include handling cases of misconduct and wrongdoing by employees, suppliers, and partner organizations, with a focus on fraud and corruption. Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in using investigation techniques and procedures, as well as a solid understanding of the investigative process.

Languages:
Candidates must have a working knowledge of English at proficiency level C and intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) at level B. This language proficiency is essential for effective communication and collaboration within the international context of FAO's operations.

Additional Notes:
The Investigator position is based in Rome, Italy, at FAO headquarters. The role may involve travel, including to hardship duty stations, and candidates should be willing to undertake such travel as required. The position is full-time and may involve working in a dynamic and diverse environment, requiring adaptability and a commitment to upholding the integrity of FAO's operations.