National Professional Officer (Head of 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. The organization operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 12,000 employees. FAO's commitment to environmental sustainability is integral to its strategic objectives and operations, focusing on developing policies, programs, and projects to achieve food security and reduce hunger and malnutrition.

Job Overview:
The National Professional Officer (Head of Programme) position is crucial for the effective coordination and operational support of the FAO Representation in China, specifically within the Hainan Programme Cooperation Office (PCO). This role involves liaising with government authorities and various institutions to promote FAO's activities and ensure the implementation of its regulatory frameworks. The officer will be responsible for program development, coordination, and operational assistance, leveraging knowledge of local conditions and institutions. The position requires a proactive approach to facilitate partnerships and enhance cooperation with stakeholders in the agricultural sector, ensuring that FAO's strategic objectives are met through effective program management and advocacy.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the National Professional Officer include:

• Liaising with government authorities and local, national, and international institutions to promote FAO's activities and represent the organization at inter-agency meetings.
• Advocating for FAO's mandate and maintaining communication tools to support the implementation of regulatory frameworks.
• Coordinating the collection and maintenance of country data on food, crops, livestock, forestry, and fisheries, and monitoring changes in national policies.
• Participating in the production of technical, economic, and policy studies, and developing country-level frameworks.
• Identifying, formulating, and preparing program and project proposals, monitoring implementation, and proposing corrective measures as necessary.
• Briefing, training, and supervising junior staff to ensure adherence to procedures and accuracy of work.
• Facilitating program coordination and partnership activities, ensuring alignment with FAO's strategic frameworks.
• Leading the development of work plans, budgets, and progress reports for the PCO.
• Promoting knowledge exchange and capacity development initiatives. 1
• Ensuring compliance with FAO's administrative and operational procedures, maintaining financial records, and assisting with budget planning and audits.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be a national of China 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 or public administration, or international relations. Additionally, candidates should have three years of relevant experience in programming, planning, and technical cooperation in food and agriculture, including experience in office management, administration, accounting, and finance. Proficiency in both Chinese and English is required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as agriculture, agricultural economics, forestry, fisheries, natural resources, rural development, business or public administration, or international relations. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of the agricultural sector and the operational frameworks of FAO.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of three years of relevant experience in public and/or private sectors related to programming, planning, and technical cooperation in food and agriculture. Experience in project implementation, office management, administration, accounting, and finance is also necessary. Work experience in multiple locations or areas, particularly in field positions, is desirable, as is supervisory experience as a team leader or equivalent.

Languages:
Candidates must have a working knowledge (proficiency-level C) of both Chinese and English. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Sanya, People's Republic of China, and is part of the FAO Representation in China. The role is full-time and involves significant interaction with government entities, technical institutions, and international partners. The successful candidate will be expected to engage in high-level discussions and represent FAO in various capacities, ensuring effective program management and compliance with organizational guidelines. Specific details regarding contract duration, compensation, and benefits are not provided in the job description.