Country Program Coordinator II

Job Posting Organization:
The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) is a renowned research organization dedicated to providing evidence-based solutions to reduce poverty and end hunger and malnutrition. Established in 1975, IFPRI operates in over 40 countries and employs a diverse team of experts in various fields related to food policy and agricultural research. The organization collaborates with governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders to develop and implement effective policies that improve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and nutrition worldwide. IFPRI's mission is to provide research-based policy solutions that promote sustainable food systems and improve the livelihoods of vulnerable populations.

Job Overview:
The Country Program Coordinator II position at IFPRI is a critical role within the Development Strategies and Governance Unit (DSG). This full-time position is based in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, and is part of the Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Policy Support Program (PNG-AFNP) for the period 2024-202

• The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing the administrative and operational aspects of the program, ensuring that all activities align with the strategic goals set forth by IFPRI and its partners. The role requires a proactive approach to managing local research and administrative staff, coordinating research efforts, and facilitating effective communication with stakeholders involved in agricultural development. The coordinator will also play a key role in organizing seminars and workshops to disseminate research findings and engage with policy discussions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Country Program Coordinator II include:

• Office Management and Administration (70%): - Assist the Country Program Leader in managing local research and administrative staff, including recruitment, work plan development, supervision, and performance reviews. - Collaborate with administrative staff and vendors to ensure effective administrative services, including office procurement, maintenance, technical/IT services, and vehicle fleet management. - Draft and monitor consultant collaborative agreements, serving as a liaison between program collaborators and finance/administrative issues. - Review monthly financial reports and provide analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">financial analysis reports on projects. - Coordinate seminars and workshops, supervising logistical arrangements. - Liaise with IFPRI's Finance and Administration Department on finance, security, HR, and administrative needs. - Assist in updating the annual work program and project proposals.
• Research (10%): - Assist the Country Program Leader in coordinating research activities with IFPRI staff and collaborators. - Provide guidance on administrative issues to facilitate research activities for locally recruited research support staff. - Participate in fieldwork activities, including empirical research and synthesis.
• Outreach and Policy Communication (20%): - Track progress in the agricultural development sector and inform participants in ongoing policy discussions. - Maintain active policy communication with stakeholders in PNG concerned with agricultural development. - Organize regular workshops and seminars on research topics, including one major policy research seminar annually. - Support the publication of working papers, research notes, newsletters, and other outputs.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Country Program Coordinator II position include: - A Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Agricultural Economics, Public Policy, Development Studies, or a closely related field, along with two years of relevant work experience; or a Master’s degree in the aforementioned fields. - Proven experience in coordinating research, capacity building, and communication efforts related to agricultural and food policy. - Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate the results of agriculture and food policy research to diverse audiences. - Knowledge and experience working in Papua New Guinea. - Strong ability to work across disciplines and handle multiple tasks with minimal supervision in a fast-paced environment. - Attention to detail and the ability to work collaboratively in a multicultural environment. - Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including word processing and spreadsheet programs. - Excellent written and spoken English skills.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Agricultural Economics, Public Policy, Development Studies, or a closely related field. A Master’s degree in these areas is preferred and may substitute for some work experience requirements. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in economic principles, policy analysis, and development strategies relevant to agricultural and food systems.

Experience:
The position requires at least two years of relevant work experience for candidates with a Bachelor’s degree, or equivalent experience for those with a Master’s degree. Experience should include coordinating research projects, capacity building initiatives, and communication efforts related to agricultural and food policy. Familiarity with the agricultural development landscape in Papua New Guinea is essential, as is the ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively in a dynamic work environment.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, as the role requires excellent written and spoken communication skills. Additionally, proficiency in Tok Pisin is preferred, as it will facilitate communication with local stakeholders and enhance outreach efforts. Knowledge of other local languages may also be beneficial.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a two-year renewable contract based in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. Candidates must have work authorization to work in Papua New Guinea. The role involves significant office management responsibilities and requires the ability to work collaboratively with a diverse team. The physical demands of the job include sitting for extended periods and the ability to lift light weights. The work environment is primarily office-based, with occasional fieldwork required.