CoFSA Programme Coordinator

CoFSA Programme Coordinator

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

March 11, 2026March 14, 2026Panama CityPanama
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization that focuses on sustainable development and the eradication of poverty. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, providing expert advice, training, and support to develop local capacity. The organization is committed to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and works to integrate local knowledge with global perspectives to achieve these goals. UNDP's mission is to help countries achieve sustainable development by providing technical assistance and policy advice, fostering partnerships, and mobilizing resources.

Job Overview:
The CoFSA Programme Coordinator will play a pivotal role in leading the Conscious Food Systems Alliance (CoFSA) initiative, which aims to transform food systems through innovative practices and partnerships. This position involves coordinating the initiative's activities, ensuring quality assurance, and managing risks throughout the implementation process. The Coordinator will also contribute to strategic planning, budgeting, and monitoring of the program, while supporting the development of partnerships and resource mobilization efforts. The role requires a deep understanding of food systems, sustainability, and the integration of consciousness-based approaches into food and agriculture practices. The Coordinator will facilitate knowledge sharing, capacity building, and advocacy efforts relevant to food systems, ensuring that the initiative aligns with UNDP's broader goals and strategies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Coordination of CoFSA initiative: Ensure effective coordination of the CoFSA initiative and workplan, focusing on quality assurance and risk management from formulation to implementation of activities. Contribute to planning, budgeting, implementation, and monitoring of assigned program areas, and track financial resources in accordance with UNDP rules and regulations. Support management of team contractual arrangements and procurement processes, including drafting Terms of Reference (TORs) and participating in assessment processes. Oversee the preparation and aggregation of reports on activities, outputs, and outcomes, including donor and corporate reports. Participate in UNDP Food Systems Team activities, such as monthly team meetings and annual retreats.
  • Strategic Partnerships and Resource Mobilization: Collaborate in creating strategic partnerships and implementing the resource mobilization strategy. Identify and nurture partnerships with key stakeholders, including civil society organizations, UN agencies, international financial institutions, government institutions, donors, and the private sector. Analyze donor information, prepare briefs on cooperation areas, and develop proposals to support resource mobilization efforts.
  • Development of CoFSA operations and Strategic initiatives: Provide technical advisory support for the development of key CoFSA workstreams and products. Contribute to the integration of CoFSA in UNDP Global, Regional, and Country activities, facilitating knowledge sharing and capacity building. Identify training needs and organize relevant activities involving technical experts and stakeholders.
  • Knowledge Management: Establish knowledge platforms for the program, facilitate innovative mechanisms for knowledge dissemination, and develop resources to support UNDP's engagement in food systems.
  • Perform other duties as necessary for the efficient functioning of the Office and the Organization.

Required Qualifications:
  • Education: Advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in International Development, Management, Business Administration, Food and Agriculture, or related discipline is required. A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in the mentioned fields, combined with additional 2 years of qualifying experience, will be considered in lieu of the master’s degree.
  • Experience: Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in international development, project management, and/or business administration with a master’s degree, or 7 years with a bachelor’s degree.
  • Required Skills: Experience coordinating projects, managing budgets, and expertise in food and agriculture. Familiarity with inner development and its role in sustainability and systems change.
  • Desired Skills: Experience in resource mobilization and partnerships with public and private partners, as well as working with donor proposals and reporting.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in fields such as International Development, Management, Business Administration, Food and Agriculture, or other related disciplines. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in any of these fields, combined with an additional 2 years of relevant experience, will be considered in lieu of the master’s degree.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in international development, project management, and/or business administration for candidates with a master’s degree. Candidates with a bachelor’s degree must have at least 7 years of relevant experience. Experience in coordinating projects, managing budgets, and expertise in food and agriculture is essential, along with familiarity with inner development and its role in sustainability and systems change.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position. Proficiency in Spanish and/or French is considered an advantage, as it may facilitate communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders in the food systems sector.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote, allowing the incumbent to work from their home base. The incumbent will be supervised by the CoFSA Technical Advisor and will be responsible for providing their own workstation, including a laptop, internet connection, and other necessary equipment. Flexibility in availability is expected to accommodate global consultations across different time zones. UNDP is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization does not tolerate harassment or discrimination and ensures a fair recruitment process.
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