Head of Field Office

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries, employing thousands of staff members who work tirelessly to ensure effective humanitarian assistance reaches millions globally. WFP's mission is centered around the values of Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion, fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. The organization has been recognized for its efforts, notably being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 202

• WFP is committed to personal and professional development, offering various training and mobility opportunities to its employees, and encourages qualified candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply for positions.

Job Overview:
The Head of Field Office position is crucial for managing the operations of the WFP in the designated area, ensuring the effective and efficient management of human and financial resources, and executing the organization's programs and activities. The role involves establishing and maintaining relationships with local governments, UN agencies, and other partners to enhance WFP's visibility and impact. The Head of Field Office will lead a team in a challenging environment, focusing on rapid deployment of food assistance programs and ensuring compliance with safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security standards. This position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to adapt to the dynamic needs of the region, particularly in response to food insecurity and climate-related challenges.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Head of Field Office will be responsible for managing and directing WFP's field operations in the assigned area, ensuring the rapid and effective deployment of food assistance programs. Key responsibilities include overseeing the implementation of country office initiatives, policies, and strategies; managing the field office to ensure transparent and effective personnel management; ensuring the efficient use of financial resources to meet objectives; ensuring the safety and security of personnel and assets; collaborating with local governments and partners to identify areas for food assistance; developing and coordinating data collection and monitoring systems; preparing accurate reports on operations and performance; fostering partnerships to enhance assistance programs; and conducting inspections of storage and distribution points to ensure compliance with WFP policies. Additional tasks may be assigned as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in managing humanitarian operations, with a proven track record of leading teams in challenging environments. They should demonstrate experience in developing multidisciplinary work plans to achieve strategic objectives, managing medium-sized budgets, and balancing multiple priorities effectively. Strong negotiation skills and experience in emergency operations or moderately complex development programs are essential. Candidates should also have experience in security coordination and project management in constrained environments, as well as the ability to analyze political situations and assess risks accurately.

Educational Background:
A higher university degree in economics, international development, social sciences, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first university degree with additional years of relevant professional experience or training in related courses may be accepted. Candidates should have a solid academic foundation that supports their ability to perform in a complex humanitarian context.

Experience:
A minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience relevant to the position is required. This experience should include field operations, preferably in difficult assignments or emergency situations, and should demonstrate the ability to manage teams and projects effectively. Candidates should have experience in analyzing political situations and providing guidance to management on decision-making processes.

Languages:
Fluency in French (Level C) is mandatory, along with a minimum proficiency in English (Level B). Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing communication with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a consultancy role at Level II, with a duty station in Guereda, Chad. The initial contract duration is 6 months, with the possibility of extension based on operational needs. The role is full-time, and WFP is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. The organization does not charge any fees during the application process, and all applications must be submitted through the online recruitment system. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks to ensure a safe and inclusive work environment.