Programme Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of Climate Change, Biodiversity and Environment (OCB) is a vital part of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) that focuses on addressing the pressing challenges of climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation. Established to coordinate efforts across various sectors, OCB plays a crucial role in facilitating responses to these interconnected issues. It serves as the focal point for major multilateral environmental agreements, including the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). OCB also assists FAO member countries in tackling security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security challenges while promoting sustainable practices. The organization is involved in various initiatives, including the Global Environmental Facility (GEF) and the Green Climate Fund (GCF), and hosts programs like the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS). OCB's mission is to ensure that environmental considerations are integrated into agricultural practices and policies, thereby promoting sustainable food systems globally. The office is located at the FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy, and is composed of a diverse team of professionals dedicated to advancing environmental sustainability.

Job Overview:
The Programme Officer position within the OCB Programme Support Hub is designed for individuals who are passionate about climate change, biodiversity, and environmental issues. The role involves a combination of technical and administrative responsibilities, focusing on the financial management and monitoring of OCB's regular programs and trust fund resources. The Programme Officer will be responsible for developing, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating assigned programs and projects, ensuring that they align with OCB's strategic objectives. This position requires a strong analytical mindset, as the officer will conduct research, collect and analyze data, and prepare reports that inform policy decisions and program evaluations. The Programme Officer will also engage in outreach activities, including training workshops and seminars, to disseminate knowledge and foster collaboration among stakeholders. The role is integral to supporting OCB's mission of promoting sustainable practices in agriculture and environmental management.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Officer will carry out a comprehensive set of duties, including conducting basic research on various aspects of OCB's programs and operations. This involves collecting, analyzing, and presenting statistical data from diverse sources to support decision-making processes. The officer will provide substantive support for policy coordination and evaluation functions, participating in impact evaluations and analyzing emerging development issues. Additionally, the Programme Officer will contribute to the preparation of written outputs such as background papers, analytical notes, and sections of reports. The role includes participating in field missions, providing both substantive and administrative support, and collecting data as needed. The officer will monitor budget funding related to program and project preparation, ensuring compliance with policies and guidelines. Specific functions include managing budget analyses, supporting GEF and GCF initiatives, and serving as a resource person in financial management. The Programme Officer will also collect and review financial information to produce periodic budgetary reports and support liaising with FAO corporate units regarding budget planning and management.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Programme Officer position must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in business or public administration, accounting, finance, or a related field. A minimum of three years of relevant experience in budget management or related areas is required. Candidates should demonstrate a strong proficiency in English (level C) and intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) at level B. The role demands a results-oriented mindset, effective teamwork skills, and the ability to communicate clearly and build effective relationships. Knowledge sharing and continuous improvement are also essential competencies for this position.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Programme Officer position includes an advanced university degree, specifically a Master’s degree or its equivalent, in fields such as business administration, public administration, accounting, finance, or related disciplines. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of financial management and program implementation within the context of international organizations.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of three years of progressively responsible work experience in budget management or related areas. This experience should include a strong background in financial management, analysis, and planning, particularly within an international organization. Familiarity with International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) and/or an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system is considered an asset. The extent and relevance of experience in administration, finance, and management will be evaluated during the selection process.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with a requirement for candidates to have working knowledge at proficiency level C. Additionally, candidates should possess intermediate knowledge (level B) of another FAO official language, which could include Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish. This multilingual capability is essential for effective communication and collaboration within the diverse environment of the FAO.

Additional Notes:
The Programme Officer position is based in Rome, Italy, at the FAO headquarters. While the job description does not specify a deadline for applications, it is important for candidates to be aware of the competitive nature of such positions within international organizations. The role is likely to be full-time and may involve collaboration with various stakeholders across different countries. Compensation and benefits details are typically provided during the recruitment process, and candidates may be assessed based on their ability to contribute to the organization's mission and objectives.