Liaison Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is dedicated to defeating hunger and improving nutrition and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security. Established in 1945, FAO has grown to include 194 member countries and operates in over 130 countries worldwide. The organization focuses on various aspects of agriculture, including food production, sustainable management of natural resources, and rural development. In Afghanistan, FAO is actively involved in enhancing agricultural livelihoods and local ecosystems, particularly in the context of humanitarian assistance and development programs aimed at boosting local production and safeguarding agricultural gains.

Job Overview:
The Liaison Officer will play a crucial role in facilitating communication and coordination between FAO Afghanistan and local authorities, stakeholders, and partners. This position requires a proactive approach to ensure effective implementation of FAO's programs and projects across the country. The incumbent will be responsible for developing and maintaining constructive relationships with local authorities at various levels, assisting in the creation of protocols and guidelines for program implementation, and participating in key meetings to provide updates and reports on strategic issues. The Liaison Officer will also support advocacy efforts and engage with stakeholders to promote FAO's mission and objectives in Afghanistan, ensuring that the organization's activities align with local needs and priorities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Liaison Officer include establishing and maintaining constructive coordination with local authorities, assisting in the development of protocols and guidelines for program implementation, participating in Humanitarian Access Group meetings, supporting the design and implementation of advocacy strategies, preparing briefing notes and supporting materials for missions, coordinating with local authorities on FAO's mandate, advocating for program delivery support, providing updates to local authorities, securing access for staff and donors, representing FAO in meetings with UN agencies and NGOs, facilitating clearances and approvals, advising senior management on stakeholder engagement, providing detailed reports on activities and concerns, drafting official documents, and performing any other tasks as required by supervisors.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in business administration, economics, social sciences, or a related field, with a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience in liaison and coordination with local authorities and stakeholders. Alternatively, a Master's degree in the same fields with at least 4 years of relevant experience is acceptable. Experience in UN or INGO coordination for humanitarian or development projects is highly desirable. Candidates should also demonstrate strong communication skills, flexibility, advocacy and networking abilities, and the capacity to work independently under tight deadlines.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor's degree in business administration, economics, social sciences, or an equivalent qualification. A Master's degree in the same fields is preferred and may substitute for some years of experience. All educational qualifications must be obtained from institutions accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
Candidates should have substantial experience in liaison and coordination roles, particularly with local authorities and stakeholders. A minimum of 6 years of relevant experience is required for those with a Bachelor's degree, while those with a Master's degree should have at least 4 years of experience. Experience in UN or INGO settings is particularly valuable, with a preference for candidates who have worked on humanitarian or development project implementation.

Languages:
Proficiency in English at a working knowledge level (Level C) is mandatory, along with proficiency in local languages, specifically Dari and Pashto. These language skills are essential for effective communication with local authorities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position does not require any application fees at any stage of the recruitment process. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates must be medically fit for appointment and meet any residency or visa requirements. The FAO emphasizes that only higher educational qualifications recognized by the WHED will be considered. For further employment opportunities, candidates can visit the FAO employment website.