Junior Operations Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The Fisheries and Aquaculture Division (NFI) is a core technical division of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, established to promote responsible and sustainable management of aquatic food systems. The division operates from FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy, and collaborates with member countries and partners to enhance the global development of fisheries and aquaculture. The NFI focuses on implementing its strategic approach known as Blue Transformation, which aims to create sustainable and resilient aquatic food systems. The division also supports member countries through normative instruments and partnerships with regional fishery bodies, ensuring that aquatic food systems contribute to better production, nutrition, environment, and livelihoods.

Job Overview:
The Junior Operations Consultant will play a crucial role in supporting the operational, administrative, and financial implementation of two significant projects: FISH4ACP and NAVAC. These projects aim to enhance the sustainability of fisheries and aquaculture value chains in Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific, as well as promote healthy diets for vulnerable populations. The consultant will report to the relevant NFI Programme officer (Operations) and will be responsible for assisting in various operational tasks, ensuring compliance with FAO rules and procedures, and providing administrative support for project activities. This position requires a proactive approach to project management and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Junior Operations Consultant will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including: assisting in the operational implementation of project activities, supporting the preparation and processing of Letters of Agreement (LoAs), contracts for goods and services, and Field Budget Authorizations (FBAs); coordinating day-to-day operational follow-up with project recipient countries; providing administrative support for missions, workshops, training sessions, and meetings; contributing to budget monitoring activities, including financial tracking and preparing routine financial reports; assisting in the preparation of project progress reports and documentation for Project Steering Committee Meetings; maintaining monitoring tools and ensuring compliance checks; participating in project meetings and discussions; and supporting the organization of value chain stakeholders workshops.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, Economics, International Development Studies, or a related field. Those with a bachelor's degree must have two additional years of relevant professional experience. A minimum of one year of relevant experience in project or programme management, project operations, finance, or a related area is required, with preference given to candidates with experience in FAO or other UN agencies. A working knowledge of English is mandatory, and proficiency in additional languages such as French or Spanish is considered an asset.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, Economics, or International Development Studies. Candidates with a bachelor's degree must have additional professional experience to compensate for the lack of an advanced degree. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of project management and financial operations within the context of international development.

Experience:
The position requires at least one year of relevant experience related to project or programme management, project operations, finance, or a related area. Experience working with FAO or other UN agencies is highly desirable, as it provides familiarity with the operational frameworks and procedures that govern international projects. Candidates should demonstrate their ability to manage projects effectively and contribute to achieving project objectives.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages such as French or Spanish is considered a strong asset, as it enhances communication with diverse stakeholders and facilitates collaboration in multilingual environments.

Additional Notes:
This position may be home-based or located at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy. The role is full-time and involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including project recipient countries and multi-stakeholder partnerships. The consultant will be expected to support the preparation and organization of workshops and meetings, ensuring effective communication and coordination among participants. The position offers an opportunity to contribute to significant projects aimed at improving the sustainability of fisheries and aquaculture value chains, ultimately benefiting vulnerable populations.