Assistant FAO Representative (Programme)

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 policy advice, technical assistance, and capacity development in the areas of food and agriculture, working closely with governments and other stakeholders to promote sustainable agricultural practices and improve food systems.

Job Overview:
The Assistant FAO Representative (Programme) plays a crucial role in the FAO Representation in Honiara, Solomon Islands. This position involves providing effective and efficient coordination and operational support for various programme and project activities. The incumbent will be responsible for liaising with government authorities and local institutions, promoting FAO's image, and ensuring the implementation of FAO's regulatory frameworks. The role requires a deep understanding of local conditions, culture, and institutions, as well as the ability to develop and maintain communication tools to advocate for FAO's mandate and activities. The Assistant FAO Representative will also participate in the formulation of national strategies and frameworks, monitor project implementation, and provide guidance to lower-grade programme staff.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Assistant FAO Representative (Programme) include:

• Liaising with government authorities and local, national, and international institutions to support FAO's activities and represent FAO at interagency meetings.
• Promoting FAO's image through advocacy and communication tools, ensuring adherence to FAO's regulatory frameworks.
• Coordinating the collection and maintenance of country data on food, crops, livestock, forestry, and fisheries, and monitoring changes in national policies affecting the agricultural sector.
• Participating in the production of technical, economic, and policy studies, and developing country-level frameworks such as the Country Programming Framework (CPF).
• Identifying, formulating, and preparing programme and project proposals, monitoring implementation, and proposing corrective measures as necessary.
• Briefing, training, and supervising lower-grade programme staff to ensure adherence to procedures and accuracy of work.
• Leading the Programme Unit and overseeing project implementation to achieve targeted outcomes.
• Supporting fundraising efforts and engaging with local donors to implement the national Resource Mobilization Strategy.
• Strengthening collaboration with private sector partners, academic institutions, and civil society organizations. 1
• Promoting gender equality throughout the programme cycle and providing policy and technical advice to government counterparts.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be nationals of Solomon Islands and possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in fields such as agriculture, agricultural economics, forestry, fisheries, natural resources, rural development, business administration, or international relations. Additionally, candidates should have at least three years of relevant experience in public or private sectors related to programming, planning, and technical cooperation in food and agriculture, as well as project implementation in areas relevant to FAO's activities. A working knowledge of English and Pidgin at proficiency level C is also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in agriculture, agricultural economics, forestry, fisheries, natural resources, rural development, business administration and management, international relations, or any other field related to the work of the Organization. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of food systems and agricultural development.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of three years of relevant experience in the public or private sectors, specifically in programming, planning, and technical cooperation related to food and agriculture. Experience in project implementation in areas relevant to FAO's activities is also necessary. Work experience in multiple locations or areas, particularly in field positions, is desirable, as it enhances the candidate's understanding of diverse agricultural contexts and challenges.

Languages:
Proficiency in English and Pidgin is mandatory for this position, with a requirement of proficiency level C. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, but the primary focus is on effective communication in these two languages to facilitate collaboration and coordination with local stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Honiara, Solomon Islands, and is likely to be a full-time role. The Assistant FAO Representative (Programme) will work closely with various stakeholders, including government authorities, local institutions, and international partners, to ensure the successful implementation of FAO's initiatives. The role may involve some travel within the country to engage with different communities and stakeholders. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with FAO's policies and standards, ensuring that the incumbent is adequately supported in their role.