Programme Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The FAO Investment Centre (CFI) is a specialized unit within the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) that focuses on providing investment and finance solutions aimed at enhancing the efficiency, sustainability, inclusivity, and resilience of agrifood systems. Established to support FAO Members, the Centre operates in over 120 countries, collaborating with a diverse range of stakeholders including governments, international and national financing institutions, the private sector, farmers, research institutions, and academia. The Centre's mission is to improve the quality and quantity of agrifood investments through strategic investment planning, public and private investment support, and innovative finance solutions. Additionally, the Centre emphasizes knowledge sharing and capacity development to empower countries in their investment initiatives. For more information about the FAO Investment Centre, its activities, partners, and organizational structure, please refer to their official website.

Job Overview:
The Programme Officer position is integral to the FAO Investment Centre, specifically within the Office of the Director (CFID). The role involves providing programmatic support for the implementation of strategies and programs in collaboration with various partners. The Programme Officer will be responsible for business development and creating information and communication materials for meetings and events. This position requires a proactive approach to developing, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating activities that support both public and private agrifood investments. The Programme Officer will work closely with the Director, Deputy Directors, and Services Chiefs to ensure that the Centre's objectives are met effectively and efficiently. The role also includes a significant focus on policy development, outreach activities, and the preparation of various written outputs, which are essential for the Centre's operations and communication efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Officer will participate in the development, implementation, and evaluation of assigned programs and projects, ensuring that they align with the Centre's strategic goals. Key responsibilities include monitoring and analyzing program/project development, reviewing relevant documents and reports, identifying issues, and proposing corrective actions. The Programme Officer will assist in policy development by analyzing trends and preparing impact evaluations. Additionally, the role involves drafting background papers, analyses, and sections of reports, as well as conducting outreach activities such as training workshops and seminars. The Programme Officer will coordinate budget and funding activities, prepare related documents and reports, and support the development and monitoring of the Centre's strategy and programs. This includes preparing communication materials for meetings with partners and contributing to the development of memorandums of understanding and cooperation agreements. The Programme Officer will also manage investment operations and support corporate reporting requirements.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in business administration, public administration, social science, political science, international development, international relations, or a related field. A minimum of five years of relevant experience in project or program management and administration at both national and international levels is required. This experience should include exposure to investment and finance support solutions, as well as knowledge of public and private investment processes. Candidates should demonstrate a strong results focus, teamwork capabilities, effective communication skills, and the ability to build relationships and share knowledge.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree, specifically a Master’s degree or equivalent, in fields such as business administration, public administration, social science, political science, international development, or international relations. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of investment and finance in agrifood systems.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in project or program management and administration. This experience should encompass both national and international contexts, with a particular emphasis on investment and finance support solutions. Candidates should have a proven track record in managing investment programs/projects, particularly in developing countries, and should be familiar with planning, monitoring, and reporting processes.

Languages:
Candidates must have a working knowledge of English (proficiency - level C) and intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) at an intermediate proficiency level (level B). This linguistic capability is crucial for effective communication and collaboration within the international context of the FAO.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Rome, Italy, at the FAO headquarters. While the job ad does not specify a deadline for applications, it is important for candidates to apply as soon as possible to ensure consideration. The role is likely to be full-time, and candidates may be assessed against various competencies including results focus, teamwork, communication, and knowledge sharing. The FAO Investment Centre values diversity and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including those from underrepresented groups.