Assistant FAO Representative (Administration)

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO's mission is to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. With 195 Members, including 194 countries and the European Union, FAO operates in over 130 countries worldwide. The organization focuses on providing policy advice, technical assistance, and capacity development to support agrifood systems transformation, while ensuring accountability and effective operations at the country level. FAO's work is guided by the Strategic Framework and the Country Programming Frameworks (CPFs) that align with the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF).

Job Overview:
The Assistant FAO Representative (Administration) plays a crucial role in providing effective and efficient administrative support to the FAO Representation in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. This position involves overseeing programme administration and financial management, including accounting and personnel administration. The Assistant Representative will be responsible for planning, organizing, and coordinating the office's administrative services, ensuring compliance with existing policies and procedures. The role requires a proactive approach to managing administrative processes, supporting the implementation of collaborative programmes, and monitoring their progress. The Assistant Representative will also be involved in preparing financial reports, managing budgets, and ensuring that all procurement and custom clearances are obtained in accordance with organizational guidelines. This position is essential for maintaining the operational efficiency of the FAO Representation and supporting its strategic objectives in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Assistant FAO Representative (Administration) will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including: planning and coordinating administrative services for the office; providing administrative support for the implementation of FAO collaborative programmes; managing and supervising the administrative team; reviewing and analyzing data from various sources; preparing financial and budgetary estimates for projects; overseeing financial record-keeping and monitoring systems; ensuring compliance with approved budgets; leading financial and administrative operations; developing Standard Operational Procedures for administrative and financial matters; maintaining office premises and inventory; supporting internal communication regarding organizational policies; identifying administrative risks and suggesting mitigation actions; and ensuring compliance with FAO's Data Protection Policy. The role also involves participating in Operational Management Team meetings and advocating for FAO's interests.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must meet the following minimum requirements: be a national of Kyrgyzstan; possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in a field related to business or public administration; have at least three years of relevant experience in office management, administration, accounting, and/or audit, budget, or finance; and demonstrate proficiency in English, Russian, and the local language (Kyrgyz). Additionally, candidates should exhibit competencies such as results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing. Technical and functional skills in office management, supervisory experience, and familiarity with UN operational rules and procedures are also essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in a relevant field such as business administration, public administration, finance, or a related discipline. This advanced degree is crucial for understanding the complexities of administrative and financial management within an international organization like FAO.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of three years of relevant experience in office management, administration, accounting, and/or audit, budget, or finance. Experience in field positions or in multiple locations is desirable, as it provides a broader understanding of the operational challenges faced by the organization. Familiarity with FAO's corporate systems and database, as well as knowledge of accounting procedures and project budget management, will be considered an asset.

Languages:
Proficiency in English, Russian, and the local language (Kyrgyz) is mandatory for this position. This linguistic capability is essential for effective communication within the organization and with external stakeholders. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered beneficial but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, and is expected to be a full-time role. The Assistant FAO Representative (Administration) will be part of a dynamic team working towards achieving FAO's strategic objectives in the region. The role may involve occasional travel within the country to support various programme activities. Compensation and benefits will be in accordance with FAO's policies and regulations.