Administration Finance Specialist (AFS)

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized technical agency of the United Nations, established to combat hunger and promote security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security globally. The FAO's mission is to work towards the eradication of hunger and ensure food security for all, as outlined in the 2030 Agenda. The organization operates in numerous countries, focusing on transforming agri-food systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. The FAO's Strategic Framework aims to achieve better production, better nutrition, better environment, and better lives, ensuring that no one is left behind. In the Marshall Islands, FAO is supporting the government through the GEF funded project aimed at sustainable food systems and integrated land/seascape management, which is implemented across six atolls: Majuro, Kwajalein, Arrno, Wotje, Jaluit, and Ailinglaplap. This project seeks to integrate food system management into national strategies and enhance capacity for environmental and agri-food system management, ultimately promoting sustainable practices and improving food production.

Job Overview:
The Administration Finance Specialist (AFS) will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of the FAO project in the Marshall Islands. Reporting to the National Project Director and collaborating closely with various stakeholders, including the FAO Sub-regional Coordinator for the Pacific and the Lead Technical Officer, the AFS will ensure that project activities are executed smoothly and in accordance with both FAO and local government standards. The AFS will be responsible for administrative and operational support, ensuring timely delivery of project outcomes and outputs. This position requires a proactive approach to managing project budgets, coordinating with partners, and facilitating the execution of project activities, all while adhering to established procedures and guidelines.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The AFS will be responsible for a wide range of tasks, including:

• Administrative Management: Ensuring the smooth implementation of project activities in line with the results-based work plan, coordinating operational arrangements with project partners, and supporting the organization of project activities.
• Financial Management: Monitoring project budgets, forecasting for ongoing activities, reviewing financial reports, and assisting in budget revisions.
• Reporting: Preparing and submitting relevant reports on expenditures, forecasts, and project progress according to FAO and GEF requirements.
• Collaboration: Engaging with various government agencies and stakeholders to facilitate project implementation and address any issues affecting project delivery.
• Capacity Building: Supporting the synthesis and analysis of capacity assessment findings to identify training needs for stakeholders involved in financial and administrative management.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Finance, Business Administration, or a related field. Additionally, a minimum of five years of relevant experience in planning, project implementation, and management/administration of development programs is required. This includes experience in preparing and monitoring development projects and operational procedures. Candidates should also demonstrate a strong understanding of financial management principles and practices, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in Finance, Business Administration, or a related field is mandatory for this position. The FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from institutions accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in planning, project implementation, and management/administration of development programs. This experience should include the preparation and monitoring of development projects and operational procedures, demonstrating a solid understanding of project management principles.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is required for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if relevant to the local context or project stakeholders.

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 also be medically fit for appointment and meet any residency or visa requirements. The position may involve working closely with various government ministries and stakeholders, and candidates should be prepared for collaborative engagements. For further employment opportunities, candidates are encouraged to visit the FAO employment website.