Programme Implementation Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has a mission 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. The organization operates in over 130 countries, with a workforce of more than 12,000 employees. In Ukraine, FAO has been active since 2003, focusing on emergency humanitarian response and agricultural development, particularly in conflict-affected areas since the war outbreak in February 2022.

Job Overview:
The Programme Implementation Specialist will play a crucial role in supporting the effective implementation and coordination of FAO Ukraine’s Mine Action and Land Rehabilitation Programme. This position is vital for ensuring that operational, administrative, and coordination functions are executed efficiently. The incumbent will be responsible for planning, tracking, and following up on emergency and early recovery project activities, ensuring that all actions align with FAO standards, procedures, and timelines. The role requires close collaboration with various FAO support units, field offices, and implementing partners to facilitate smooth programme delivery and contribute to timely reporting and documentation of programme activities. This position is based full-time in the FAO office in Kyiv, Ukraine, and reports directly to the Head of Mine Action and Land Rehabilitation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Implementation Specialist will have a diverse set of responsibilities that include providing advisory and coordination support to the Project Officer, ensuring effective communication and information flow among relevant FAO units. Key duties include:

• Assisting in the planning, organization, and tracking of project activities at both national and regional levels, analyzing implementation progress and identifying emerging issues.
• Compiling necessary inputs and analytical data for project formulation and preparation of contribution agreements.
• Monitoring project-related plans to ensure timely progress and proposing corrective actions as needed.
• Preparing procurement-related documents and ensuring alignment with programme objectives.
• Following up with Service Providers on the implementation of Letters of Agreement and reviewing reports for compliance.
• Liaising with Operations and Procurement units to address routine queries and requests.
• Maintaining budget tracking files for assigned projects and monitoring budget utilization.
• Ensuring quality assurance of project documentation and requests.
• Collecting and analyzing project data in collaboration with the Monitoring and Evaluation team. 1
• Providing logistical and administrative support for project coordination meetings and events. 1
• Undertaking duty travel for field missions as required. 1
• Supervising other personnel as assigned and performing additional tasks as required by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in fields such as International Relations, Development Studies, Economics, Political Science, Social Sciences, or Public Administration. Those with a Bachelor's degree must have two additional years of relevant professional experience. A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in programme or project implementation, coordination, and operational support in humanitarian or development contexts is required. Additionally, candidates must demonstrate a working knowledge of English at level C, as per FAO's language requirements.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in a relevant field recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO. Candidates with a Bachelor's degree must have at least two additional years of relevant professional experience to qualify for the role. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of international relations, development, and humanitarian assistance, which are critical to the functions of the FAO.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in programme or project implementation, coordination, and operational support, particularly in humanitarian or development contexts. This experience should include working with field offices, implementing partners, and internal support units within international organizations or UN agencies. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of project cycle management and the ability to coordinate effectively across various operational areas.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English at level C is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly those relevant to the regions where FAO operates, enhancing communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role based in Kyiv, Ukraine. The Programme Implementation Specialist will be expected to engage in duty travel for field missions as required. The role involves significant interaction with various stakeholders, including government entities, NGOs, and other international organizations, necessitating strong interpersonal and communication skills. The FAO offers a competitive compensation package, including benefits that support the well-being and professional development of its employees.