Programme Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the UN that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO aims 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 transforming agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable, contributing to the 2030 Agenda and the FAO Strategic Framework. FAO Country Offices provide policy advice, technical assistance, and support to countries, ensuring effective operations aligned with international standards of accountability.

Job Overview:
The Programme Assistant plays a crucial role in providing technical and operational support for project implementation within the FAO framework. This position involves preparing various programme documents and reports, compiling and analyzing data from corporate systems, and ensuring accurate documentation and filing. The Programme Assistant is expected to support monitoring activities, organize meetings and missions, manage correspondence, and assist in producing background materials. The role also includes contributing to project coordination, logistical arrangements, and routine administrative tasks to ensure the smooth delivery of programme operations. The Programme Assistant will work closely with the FAO Representative and the programme cluster team, ensuring that all activities align with FAO's mission and objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Assistant will be responsible for a wide range of tasks, including: assisting in the preparation of project proposals and documents, project briefs, and reports; collecting and compiling data on programme/project activities; processing, formatting, and proofreading reports and documents; reviewing and directing correspondence and queries; organizing policy dialogues, workshops, and consultation meetings; making arrangements for meetings and events; entering, selecting, analyzing, and summarizing data from various sources; maintaining logs and records; participating in project monitoring; preparing background materials for briefings and meetings; and carrying out other specific operational tasks as required. The role demands a high level of organization, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask effectively.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Forestry, Natural Resource Management, Development Studies, or related fields. Additionally, a minimum of five years of relevant experience in supporting programme and project operations, preferably with UN agencies, international NGOs, or donor-funded government projects, is required. A working knowledge of English is essential, and candidates must be nationals of the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal. FAO core competencies such as results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing are also necessary for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Agriculture, Forestry, Natural Resource Management, or Development Studies. Candidates must ensure that their qualifications are recognized by the World Higher Education Database (WHED), as FAO only considers higher educational qualifications from accredited institutions.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have at least five years of relevant experience in supporting programme and project operations. This experience should preferably be gained in contexts involving UN agencies, international NGOs, or donor-funded government projects. The candidate should demonstrate a strong understanding of project management and operational support.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, proficiency in Nepali is highly desirable, as effective communication in both languages will be essential for handling queries, correspondence, and coordination with stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or processing. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates must be medically fit for appointment and meet any residency or visa requirements. The appointment is subject to security clearances. For additional employment opportunities, candidates can visit the FAO employment website.