Operations Support Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has over 194 member countries and works in more than 130 countries worldwide. The organization aims to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. FAO's mission is to help eliminate hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition, promote sustainable agriculture, and manage natural resources sustainably. The FAO Coordination Office for the West Bank and Gaza Strip (WBGS) implements the Country Programming Framework for Palestine, focusing on enhancing the wellbeing of Palestinian people through efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems in alignment with national policies and the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSCDF).

Job Overview:
The Operations Support Specialist will provide crucial operational support to the FAO field programme, which includes development, emergency, and rehabilitation projects. This role is pivotal in ensuring the effective implementation of programme and project activities at the country level, with a focus on timely and results-oriented delivery. The specialist will work under the supervision of the FAO WBGS Head of Office and the Operations Officer, collaborating closely with the Head of Programme and other relevant personnel. The position requires a proactive approach to project management, including participation in project meetings, formulation of new projects, and providing technical and operational support to ongoing initiatives. The specialist will also be responsible for monitoring project performance, preparing analytical reports, and assisting in resource mobilization efforts, ensuring alignment with the Resource Mobilization Strategy and FAO's operational guidelines.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Operations Support Specialist will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including but not limited to: participating in project meetings and collaborating on new project formulation; providing technical and operational support to ongoing projects; preparing project work plans and monitoring progress; identifying corrective measures to overcome operational constraints; preparing budget revisions; assisting in resource mobilization by liaising with donors; supporting compliance in internal control; coordinating timely project completion and closure; monitoring project proposals and revisions; reviewing draft agreements with donors; establishing partnerships with HQ units and regional offices; liaising with UNDP and other UN organizations; ensuring compliance with security requirements; applying FAO’s Project Cycle Management guidelines; managing budget and financial commitments; forecasting and monitoring programme delivery; updating resource mobilization analysis; reviewing project reports; ensuring the day-to-day running of the FAO WBGS office; providing support to the Gaza office; liaising with donors and government authorities; acting as Audit Focal Point for EUC funded projects; supervising local consultants; and performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in public administration, business administration, economics, accounting, finance, development studies, or a closely related field. Those with a bachelor's degree must have two additional years of relevant professional experience. A minimum of five years of professional experience in project management, operations, and support is required. Additionally, candidates must demonstrate a working knowledge (Level C) of English, as well as core competencies such as results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in relevant fields such as public administration, business administration, economics, accounting, finance, or development studies. Candidates with a bachelor's degree must have additional professional experience to qualify. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of project management and operational support within the context of FAO's mission and objectives.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least five years of professional experience in project management and operations support. Experience working with UN agencies or international organizations is desirable, as is familiarity with programme/project formulation, implementation, and management. The role requires a demonstrated ability to work under pressure, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple responsibilities effectively. Experience in field positions and knowledge of international humanitarian architecture, including the UN system and NGOs, is also beneficial.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English at Level C is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly those relevant to the region or the stakeholders involved in the projects.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Jerusalem and may require travel across the West Bank and Gaza Strip. The role is full-time, and candidates will be assessed against the specified minimum requirements. The FAO offers a collaborative work environment and opportunities for professional development, as well as a commitment to diversity and inclusion in its workforce.