National Project Coordinator (NPC)

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'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 transforming agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable, contributing to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. FAO Country Offices provide policy advice and support to countries, ensuring effective operations aligned with international standards of accountability. The FAO Country Office in China works closely with national partners to support rural revitalization, protect the environment, and enhance partnerships for better living conditions, focusing on innovations in digital agriculture and healthy diets.

Job Overview:
The National Project Coordinator (NPC) will play a crucial role in coordinating and implementing project activities at the national level in China. This position requires a blend of administrative and technical support to ensure effective management of project financial resources and successful execution of project activities. The NPC will work under the supervision of the FAO Representative in China and will collaborate closely with the FAO China team, Lead Technical Officers, and various stakeholders. The role involves developing work plans, managing procurement and logistics, and ensuring that project objectives are met in alignment with the Country Programming Framework (CPF) for 2021-202

• The NPC will also be responsible for fostering partnerships, mobilizing resources, and ensuring that the project contributes to the sustainable transformation of agrifood systems in China.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The NPC will be responsible for a wide range of tasks, including: coordinating the planning and implementation of project activities; developing work plans, budgets, and procurement strategies; establishing collaboration with interdisciplinary teams; liaising with government departments and partner organizations; monitoring and supervising subcontracted activities; preparing terms of reference for consultants; facilitating meetings and ensuring timely delivery of outputs; supporting backstopping missions; organizing workshops and training activities; maintaining communication with stakeholders; preparing annual work plans; ensuring financial control and compliance with FAO regulations; drafting project progress reports; and mobilizing additional resources to expand project initiatives. The NPC will also perform other related duties as required to ensure the success of the project.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree or higher in natural resources management, agriculture, or a related field. A minimum of five to seven years of relevant working experience in agricultural and environmental management or related fields is required, along with recognized technical expertise. Candidates should have a working knowledge of both English and Chinese, and must be nationals of China. Core competencies expected include results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree or above in natural resources management, agriculture, or a related field. Candidates must ensure that their qualifications are recognized by the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
Candidates should have at least five to seven years of working experience in agricultural and environmental management or related fields. Proven experience in international project management, including project formulation, implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and reporting, is essential. Experience in managing EU-funded programs is considered an asset.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English and Chinese is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered beneficial but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
The FAO does not charge any fees during the recruitment process. 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 position may involve full-time engagement, and candidates are encouraged to visit the FAO employment website for additional opportunities.