Area Office Manager

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 is recognized for its efforts and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020 for its work in combating hunger and promoting peace. The organization values diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all employees are treated equally and fairly, regardless of their background. WFP is dedicated to creating a supportive work environment that fosters personal and professional growth through various training and development programs.

Job Overview:
The Area Office Manager will lead and manage the WFP Area Office in Kananga, ensuring the effective and efficient management of human and financial resources while delivering WFP programs and activities. This position requires a strong emphasis on building and maintaining relationships with local governments, UN agencies, and other key stakeholders to enhance WFP’s visibility and effectiveness in the region. The role involves contributing to the development of country strategies and policies, ensuring that local needs inform planning, and overseeing the deployment of assistance programs. The Area Office Manager will also be responsible for ensuring the security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security of WFP staff and operations, managing financial resources, and fostering partnerships to improve food security and nutrition in the area.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement country strategies, policies, and programs that reflect local needs and inform country-wide planning.
• Manage the Area Office in Kananga and any associated Field Offices, ensuring effective people management and team development.
• Ensure the security of WFP staff, operations, and assets, adhering to WFP safety standards.
• Collaborate with local governments and partners to identify areas for assistance and provide technical expertise for food assistance programs.
• Monitor and evaluate WFP operations, generating reports on impact and performance to inform planning.
• Build and maintain partnerships with local authorities, NGOs, civil societies, and other stakeholders to enhance food security initiatives.
• Engage with beneficiaries to ensure compliance with WFP policies and project objectives.
• Oversee logistics and service provision in the Kasai region, including management of the UNHAS base.
• Promote WFP’s visibility and communicate the impact of interventions on food security and nutrition. 1
• Foster an equitable and inclusive workplace that aligns with WFP’s diversity and inclusion framework. 1
• Perform other duties as required.

Required Qualifications:

• Advanced University degree in Economics, International Development, Social Sciences, or a related field, or a First University degree with additional years of relevant work experience.
• A minimum of five (5) years of relevant professional experience in humanitarian or development work.
• Proven experience in managing multi-discipline work plans and leading teams effectively.
• Experience in field operations, particularly in hardship duty stations or emergency situations.
• Strong analytical skills with experience in assessing political situations and managing financial budgets.
• Experience in security coordination and compound management is desirable.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as Economics, International Development, or Social Sciences. Alternatively, a first university degree combined with additional years of related work experience and/or training may be acceptable. The educational background should reflect a strong foundation in the principles of humanitarian assistance and development.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five (5) years of relevant professional experience, particularly in humanitarian or development contexts. Experience in managing teams, field operations, and financial budgets is essential. Familiarity with emergency operations and development programs, especially in challenging environments, is highly valued.

Languages:
Fluency in English (level C) is mandatory, along with intermediate knowledge (level B) of a second official UN language, preferably French. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and based in Kananga, Democratic Republic of the Congo. The role involves significant responsibilities in managing WFP operations and requires a commitment to the principles of humanitarian assistance. The successful candidate will be expected to engage with various stakeholders and ensure compliance with WFP policies. The organization offers an attractive compensation package and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.