Programme Policy Officer

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's vision emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and the importance of a healthy work environment, where employees are selected based on merit and are encouraged to contribute to the organization's goals. WFP has been recognized for its efforts, notably receiving the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020, which underscores its commitment to humanitarian assistance and global cooperation. The organization actively engages with various stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and the private sector, to enhance its impact and reach.

Job Overview:
The Programme Policy Officer will play a pivotal role in the newly established School Meals Accelerator, which aims to support low- and lower-middle-income countries in enhancing their national school meal programs. This position is crucial for operationalizing the Accelerator’s country support model, which focuses on providing tailored technical assistance to governments. The Officer will lead a technical assistance team based in Rome, coordinating closely with country teams to ensure that national school meal programs are effectively designed, implemented, and sustained. The role requires a deep understanding of the complexities involved in school health and nutrition, as well as the ability to foster partnerships and align global resources with national priorities. The ultimate goal is to improve the quality and reach of government-led school meal initiatives, thereby contributing to the well-being of millions of children worldwide.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The key responsibilities of the Programme Policy Officer include leading the technical assistance team based in Rome, coordinating with country teams to implement the Accelerator’s support model, and providing hands-on coaching to ensure alignment with government priorities. The Officer will support the design and implementation of technical assistance plans through participatory processes, co-develop operational tools and standards, and identify partners to enhance the school meals network. Additionally, the Officer will provide technical advice on program and policy issues, promote adaptive implementation, and facilitate multi-stakeholder dialogues to build institutional capacity. The role also involves generating strategic insights to inform global learning and supporting the development of training programs to enhance the capacity of national stakeholders. The Officer will lead and motivate the Technical Assistance Cell team, ensuring effective use of financial resources and championing diversity and inclusion within the workplace.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Public Policy, International Development, Education, Food Systems, or a related field. Alternatively, a first university degree with additional years of relevant work experience is acceptable. The position requires a minimum of 8 years of professional experience in the design and implementation of school meals programs, with a strong focus on providing technical assistance to governments and developing strategies. Experience in international organizations or working outside of one's home country is also essential. Candidates should demonstrate exceptional skills in building partnerships, navigating complex power dynamics, and securing political buy-in, as well as experience in facilitating inclusive policy dialogues and governance processes.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in relevant fields such as Public Policy, International Development, Education, or Food Systems. A first university degree may be considered if accompanied by significant relevant work experience. The emphasis is on candidates who have a strong academic foundation that supports their understanding of the complexities involved in school meal programs and related policy frameworks.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of relevant professional experience, particularly in the design and implementation of school meals programs. Candidates should have substantial experience in providing technical assistance to governments and developing strategies that align with national priorities. Experience working in international organizations or in a context outside of one's home country is highly valued, as it demonstrates the ability to navigate diverse cultural and operational landscapes.

Languages:
Fluency in English (level C) is mandatory, along with intermediate knowledge (level B) of a second official UN language, which may include Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, Spanish, or Portuguese. Proficiency in additional languages is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's competitiveness for the position.

Additional Notes:
This is an International Professional position open to candidates of all nationalities. The selected candidate will be appointed on a fixed-term contract for an initial period of two years, with the possibility of renewal based on operational requirements, performance, and funding availability. A one-year probationary period is included. The position is open to both internal and external applicants, with specific return rights for current WFP employees on a Fixed-Term Contract. WFP offers an attractive compensation and benefits package in line with ICSC standards, including a basic salary, post adjustment, relocation entitlement, and various allowances. The selected candidate will be required to relocate to Rome, Italy, to take up this assignment.