Member of the Independent Oversight Advisory Committee (IOAC)

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, established to save lives in emergencies and to use food assistance as a means to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for individuals recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. WFP operates globally, with a mission centered around the principle of putting people at the heart of its operations. The organization emphasizes diversity and inclusion, striving to create a workforce that reflects the communities it serves. WFP has received numerous accolades, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020, highlighting its commitment to humanitarian efforts. The organization is dedicated to fostering a healthy work environment that promotes integrity, collaboration, commitment, humanity, and inclusion. WFP has a significant presence in various countries, employing thousands of individuals who work tirelessly to ensure effective humanitarian assistance reaches millions worldwide. For more information, visit their official website at https://www.wfp.org.

Job Overview:
The position of a member of the Independent Oversight Advisory Committee (IOAC) is crucial for providing independent, expert advice to the Executive Board and the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Executive Director of WFP. The IOAC plays a vital role in enhancing the governance and accountability of the organization by advising on internal oversight, risk management, financial statements, and ethical standards. Members are expected to contribute their expertise in finance, audit, and evaluations to ensure that WFP's operations are transparent and effective. This role requires a commitment to WFP's mission of achieving zero hunger and involves engaging with various stakeholders to strengthen the organization's internal control systems and governance processes. The IOAC aims to add value by ensuring that WFP's operations are conducted with the highest standards of integrity and accountability, thereby enhancing the organization's ability to deliver humanitarian assistance effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The specific responsibilities of the IOAC include advising the Executive Board and the Executive Director on various aspects of WFP's operations. This includes providing guidance on the independence and mandate of the Office of the Inspector General, reviewing its budget and staffing requirements, and assessing its overall performance. The committee is also responsible for evaluating the effectiveness of WFP's internal control systems, including risk management and governance practices. Members will review issues arising from the audited financial statements and provide recommendations to management and the Executive Board. Additionally, the IOAC will advise on accounting policies, external audit processes, and the systems established to promote international civil service values. The committee will also evaluate the adequacy of management responses to audit and evaluation recommendations, ensuring that WFP maintains high standards of integrity and ethical conduct.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the IOAC position must possess at least 15 years of progressively responsible senior management experience in finance, audit, oversight, or evaluations. They should have a proven track record of providing expert advice to executive-level stakeholders and demonstrate knowledge of governance and accountability structures within large, complex organizations. Experience in organizational governance, risk management, and ethics is essential. Candidates should also have the ability to deliver recommendations across different levels of a multicultural organization and possess integrity, independent judgment, and a commitment to WFP's mission. Previous experience on an oversight committee or similar body is preferred, along with a solid understanding of general legal concepts relevant to the role.

Educational Background:
A strong educational background is essential for candidates applying for the IOAC position. While specific degrees are not explicitly stated, it is generally expected that candidates hold advanced degrees in relevant fields such as finance, business administration, public administration, or law. This educational foundation should be complemented by extensive professional experience in the relevant areas of finance, audit, and governance, equipping candidates with the necessary skills to fulfill the responsibilities of the role effectively.

Experience:
Candidates must have a minimum of 15 years of progressively responsible senior management experience, particularly in finance, audit, oversight, or evaluations. This extensive experience should include a track record of providing expert advice to executive-level stakeholders and a deep understanding of governance and accountability structures within large, international organizations. The ability to navigate complex organizational environments and deliver actionable recommendations is crucial for success in this role.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for candidates, as the committee conducts its work in this language. A high level of English proficiency is required to engage fully in discussions and carry out responsibilities effectively. While not explicitly stated, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly in enhancing communication within the diverse, multicultural environment of WFP.

Additional Notes:
The appointment to the IOAC is for a three-year term, which may be renewed for an additional three years. This position is without compensation; however, WFP will cover travel and subsistence costs incurred by members attending meetings. Members are expected to attend at least four meetings each year, which may take place in Rome or in field locations to provide firsthand experience of WFP operations. The organization is committed to promoting gender equality and encourages qualified women candidates to apply. Additionally, WFP emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its recruitment process, ensuring that candidates from various backgrounds are considered.