Programme Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The FAO Regional Office for the Near East and North Africa (RNE) is a pivotal entity within the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. Established to enhance agricultural practices and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security in the region, RNE plays a crucial role in supporting Member Countries by providing technical expertise, policy guidance, and institutional capacity development. The office is dedicated to conducting regional assessments and sectoral analyses, ensuring that governments have access to the latest knowledge and data to make informed decisions. RNE's initiatives are aligned with FAO's Strategic Framework and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, addressing critical challenges such as food security, nutrition, sustainable agriculture, and climate resilience. The office coordinates regional programs, supports country offices, and fosters partnerships to effectively tackle these issues, making it a key player in the region's agricultural landscape.

Job Overview:
The Programme Specialist position is integral to the FAO's mission in the Near East and North Africa, focusing on the strategic design and implementation of regional programs. The role involves coordinating multi-country projects and strengthening partnerships with governments, donors, and regional organizations to mobilize resources effectively. The Programme Specialist is responsible for ensuring that all initiatives are monitored and evaluated for performance and impact, translating strategic priorities into actionable plans. This position requires a proactive approach to project management, ensuring compliance with FAO guidelines and policies while facilitating smooth project delivery through collaboration with various stakeholders. The Programme Specialist will also contribute to the overall field program, ensuring timely data entry and monitoring of project pipelines, which is essential for operational success.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme Specialist include coordinating the formulation, implementation, and monitoring of country, sub-regional, and regional projects and related programs. The incumbent must ensure compliance with FAO manuals, guidelines, and organizational policies. Monitoring the projects pipeline and ensuring effective resource commitment in the RNE Region is crucial. The role involves liaising with country offices and technical units to facilitate project delivery and follow-up. The Programme Specialist will support the formulation, review, and finalization of project documents, including work plans, budgets, agreements, and terms of reference for consultants. Additionally, the role requires participation in monitoring and reviewing project implementation to ensure alignment with work plans and to take corrective actions as necessary. The Programme Specialist will also be responsible for timely data entry into the FAO Project Management Information System (FPMIS) for operational and pipeline projects, following up on requests related to the Strategic Partnership and Resource Mobilization Unit, and contributing to resource mobilization and partnership development. Other duties may be assigned as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in agriculture, business administration, social sciences, international development, or related fields. A minimum of three years of relevant experience in project or program management, portfolio coordination, or administration is required. Proficiency in English is mandatory, and candidates should also have working knowledge of additional languages such as French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, or Russian. Familiarity with FAO procedures and project cycles is considered an asset, as is work experience in multiple locations or areas of work. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, and a willingness to collaborate closely with national counterparts, consultants, and country offices.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Programme Specialist position includes a university degree in relevant fields such as agriculture, business administration, social sciences, international development, or other related disciplines. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of agricultural systems and food security, as well as for effective project management and coordination.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant experience in project or program management, portfolio coordination, or administration. This experience should ideally encompass work in diverse environments and with various stakeholders, demonstrating the ability to manage complex projects effectively and to navigate the challenges associated with multi-country initiatives.

Languages:
Candidates must have full proficiency or working knowledge of English, with additional languages such as French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, or Russian being advantageous. Proficiency in a second FAO language may be required depending on the specific assignment, enhancing communication and collaboration in a multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
The position is likely to be full-time, with a focus on international recruitment. While specific details regarding contract duration and compensation are not provided, candidates should be prepared for a role that demands a high level of commitment and engagement with various stakeholders in the region. The Programme Specialist will be expected to work closely with national counterparts and contribute to the overall goals of the FAO in the Near East and North Africa.