National Programme Assistant

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 grown to become a vital organization in the global fight against hunger and poverty, with a mission to help eliminate food insecurity and improve nutrition. The organization operates in over 130 countries and employs thousands of staff members who work collaboratively with governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders to promote sustainable agricultural practices, enhance security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, and improve rural livelihoods. FAO's work encompasses a wide range of areas, including agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and rural development, with a strong emphasis on sustainable resource management and environmental protection.

Job Overview:
The National Programme Assistant plays a crucial role in supporting FAO's country-level operations in Papua New Guinea. This position is designed to provide essential programme support, ensuring effective planning, implementation, monitoring, and reporting of activities under the Country Programme Framework. The National Programme Assistant will work closely with the Head of Office and the Head of Programme, contributing to the overall success of FAO's initiatives in the country. The role involves data collection and analysis, corporate reporting, and coordination with the United Nations Country Team (UNCT) and the United Nations Resident Coordinator's Office (UNRCO). The assistant will be responsible for ensuring accurate project planning inputs, managing procurement and recruitment data, and providing effective liaison and documentation support for FAO PNG operations. This position is vital for enhancing coordination with government counterparts and ensuring compliance with FAO procedures, ultimately contributing to the timely delivery of programme outputs.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Programme Assistant will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including:

• Assisting in the collection of information and preparing inputs for reports to the UNCT on FAO programs and projects that contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) for 2024-202
• Participating in meetings organized by the UNRCO that are relevant to FAO's contributions to the UNSDCF and providing timely updates to the Head of Office and Head of Programme.
• Contributing to the work planning, implementation, monitoring of progress, and reporting on expected results for FAO PNG, including corporate reporting requirements.
• Assisting in project procurement and recruitment plans as requested, ensuring that all required information and data are accurately reflected in the Field Programme Management Information System (FPMIS).
• Collecting and preparing data and background information related to FAO's activities in agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and rural/sustainable development.
• Updating, analyzing, and summarizing data from various sources, including FAO corporate systems and country databases, and providing regular updates to the Head of Office and Head of Programme.
• Assisting in the preparation and submission of concept notes, project documents, project briefs, and progress reports.
• Supporting the Head of Office and Head of Programme in preparing official correspondence and maintaining an effective filing system.
• Liaising with relevant government ministries, donors, and implementing partners for FAO activities and project implementation as required. 1
• Facilitating and organizing meetings, workshops, and training sessions as needed. 1
• Performing any other related duties as requested by the supervisors.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must meet the following minimum requirements:

• A university degree in Business Administration, Management, or a related field.
• A minimum of three years of relevant programme or administrative experience.
• Background or experience in agriculture is considered an added advantage.
• A working knowledge of English and Tok Pisin is essential, and knowledge of an additional language is advantageous.
• Candidates must be nationals of Papua New Guinea or residents of the country with a valid work permit.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in Business Administration, Management, or a related field. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of programme management and administrative functions within the context of FAO's operations. A degree in a related field may also be considered, provided it equips the candidate with the necessary skills and knowledge to perform effectively in this role.

Experience:
The position requires at least three years of relevant programme or administrative experience. This experience should ideally be in a context similar to that of FAO's operations, where the candidate has had the opportunity to engage in programme support, project management, or administrative functions. Experience in the agricultural sector or related fields will be viewed favorably, as it aligns with FAO's mission and objectives.

Languages:
Candidates must have a working knowledge of English and Tok Pisin, which are essential for effective communication within the organization and with external stakeholders. Knowledge of an additional language is considered an advantage, as it may enhance the candidate's ability to engage with a broader range of partners and communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, and is likely to be a full-time role. The National Programme Assistant will be expected to work closely with various stakeholders, including government ministries, donors, and implementing partners. The role may involve occasional travel within the country to support project implementation and coordination efforts. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with FAO's policies and standards, ensuring that the successful candidate is adequately supported in their role.