Project Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations established to lead international efforts to defeat hunger. The FAO's mission is to work towards the eradication of hunger and strive for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for everyone, as outlined in the 2030 Agenda. The organization aims to transform agri-food systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. FAO operates in numerous countries worldwide, focusing on better production, better nutrition, better environment, and better lives, while ensuring that no one is left behind. The FAO is currently supporting the Government of the Republic of Marshall Islands (RMI) through a GEF-funded project aimed at sustainable food systems and integrated land/seascape management across six atolls in the Marshall Islands, including Majuro, Kwajalein, Arrno, Wotje, Jaluit, and Ailinglaplap. This project is designed to integrate food system management into strategic planning and capacity building for environmental and agri-food system management.

Job Overview:
The Project Coordinator (PC) will play a pivotal role in leading the Project Management Unit (PMU) team under the guidance of the National Project Director. The PC will be responsible for ensuring effective coordination and implementation of the project aimed at transforming food systems and land/seascape management in the Marshall Islands. This position requires a strong focus on project management, including tracking progress against targets, preparing monitoring reports, ensuring compliance with operational agreements, and managing project resources effectively. The PC will also support the National Project Director in their role as Secretary of the Project Steering Committee, organize workshops and meetings, and prepare annual work plans and budgets. The role demands a collaborative approach, working closely with various stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and technical organizations, to ensure the successful execution of project activities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Coordinator will be responsible for a comprehensive set of tasks, including:

• Ensuring coordination for the technical and operational implementation of all project activities and outputs, with support from the National Project Director and Technical Advisor.
• Tracking the project's progress against established targets and preparing project monitoring reports.
• Ensuring compliance with all provisions of the Operational Partners Agreement during implementation, including timely reporting and financial management.
• Managing project resources to achieve objectives consistent with the approved work plan and budget, adhering to government financial policies and FAO/GEF requirements.
• Supporting the National Project Director in their role as Secretary of the Project Steering Committee, including calling meetings and establishing agendas.
• Leading the monitoring and evaluation of project implementation and organizing workshops and meetings to assess progress.
• Submitting six-monthly Project Progress Reports to the Project Steering Committee and FAO.
• Preparing technical specifications and managing the procurement of goods and services.
• Engaging stakeholders as per the Stakeholder Engagement Plan to facilitate project implementation. 1
• Collaborating with specialists to ensure the implementation of environmental and social management plans and gender action plans. 1
• Identifying training needs for strengthening the capacity of local institutions involved in project execution.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in environmental management, environmental sciences, agriculture science, or a related field. Additionally, a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in managing or coordinating regional or national projects related to the environment is required. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of project management principles and practices, as well as experience in stakeholder engagement and capacity building.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as environmental management, environmental sciences, or agricultural sciences. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of food systems and environmental management, which are critical to the success of the project.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 10 years of relevant experience in project management or coordination, particularly in the context of environmental projects. This experience should include working with governmental and non-governmental organizations, managing project teams, and ensuring compliance with project objectives and reporting requirements.

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

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. It is important to note that FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from accredited institutions recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED). The appointment will be subject to certification of medical fitness, accreditation, residency or visa requirements, and security clearances.