Senior Administrative Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, specifically the Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific (RAP). The FAO was established in 1945 and has a mission to eliminate hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition; make agriculture, forestry, and fisheries more productive and sustainable; reduce rural poverty; and enable inclusive and efficient agricultural and food systems. The organization operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 12,000 employees worldwide, working collaboratively to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and improved nutrition for all. The RAP office plays a crucial role in leading FAO's response to regional priorities for food security, agriculture, and rural development, ensuring a multidisciplinary approach to programs and overseeing the implementation of FAO's strategic responses in the region.

Job Overview:
The Senior Administrative Officer position is pivotal within the Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific (RAP) as it involves providing comprehensive administrative services that support FAO's regular and other programs in the region. The role requires a strategic mindset to lead and guide the planning, development, and implementation of various projects, products, and services in alignment with the FAO Strategic Framework and the Organization's Gender Policy. The Senior Administrative Officer will report directly to the Deputy Regional Representative (DRR) and will be responsible for supervising and coordinating the operations of the Administrative Services Group (ASG) at RAP. This position is essential for ensuring that the Regional Office operates smoothly and efficiently, with a focus on effective resource management and compliance with corporate policies. The officer will also play a key role in advising senior management on administrative matters and ensuring that the office's operations align with the broader goals of the FAO.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Administrative Officer will have a wide range of duties and responsibilities, including advising the director-general" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Assistant Director-General/Regional Representative (ADG/RR) on the preparation and formulation of FAO's regional program of work and budget. This includes ensuring that these plans are in line with the Regional Office's work plans and comply with the approved Programme of Work and Budget. The officer will also provide guidance on general administration, ensuring the smooth functioning of the Regional Office, and advising on management and administrative matters, particularly regarding the effective planning and utilization of human and financial resources. Additionally, the officer will monitor the availability of funds for regular program activities and field projects, oversee the preparation and revision of the Regional Office budget, and ensure that financial commitments and expenditures are controlled within established limits. The role also involves identifying operational and administrative constraints affecting program implementation and proposing solutions to enhance quality and cost-effectiveness. The Senior Administrative Officer will ensure the maintenance of a reliable IT infrastructure, support the organization of significant events such as the Regional Conference and World Food Day celebrations, and liaise with headquarters units to resolve complex issues. Furthermore, the officer will ensure compliance with security standards for office premises and provide administrative support to Subregional Offices and FAO Country and Liaison Offices in the region.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in business administration, public administration, finance, human resources, law, accounting, or a related field of management. Additionally, a minimum of ten years of relevant experience in finance management, human resources management, administration, and/or corporate operations is required. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of corporate policies and procedures, as well as experience in managing human resources, finance, assets, procurement, and security. The ability to work effectively in a multi-cultural environment and to engage with various stakeholders is also essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree, specifically a Master's degree or equivalent, in fields such as business administration, public administration, finance, human resources, law, accounting, or related management disciplines. This advanced education is crucial for understanding the complexities of administrative functions and for effectively managing the diverse responsibilities associated with the role.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically a minimum of ten years in relevant fields such as finance management, human resources management, administration, and corporate operations. Candidates should have experience working in multiple locations or areas, particularly in field positions, which is essential for understanding the operational challenges faced by the organization. Experience with the UN or international organizations is preferable, as it provides insight into the unique operational and administrative frameworks within which the FAO operates.

Languages:
Candidates must have a working knowledge of English at proficiency level C, as well as intermediate knowledge of another official FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) at level B. This bilingual capability is important for effective communication within the organization and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and is based in Bangkok, Thailand. The Senior Administrative Officer will be expected to engage in various administrative and operational matters, ensuring compliance with corporate rules and policies. The role may involve international collaboration and requires a proactive approach to risk management and internal controls. The compensation and benefits package will be competitive and commensurate with experience and qualifications.