Programme and Operations Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has a mission to help eliminate hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition. The organization works with countries to develop policies, programs, and projects that aim to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and promote sustainable agricultural practices. FAO operates in over 130 countries and has a multidisciplinary team of experts in various fields including agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and rural development. The FAO Sub-Regional Office for West Africa (SFW) focuses on addressing food security and nutrition priorities in the region, supporting 15 member countries of ECOWAS and 17 member countries of the Inter-State Committee for Drought Control in the Sahel (CILSS).

Job Overview:
The Programme and Operations Specialist will be instrumental in coordinating and managing the FAO SFW Field Programme. This role involves providing essential support for project programming and preparation, including FAO Technical Cooperation Programme (TCP) projects, UN Joint Programme (UNJP) projects, and regional initiatives. The specialist will oversee daily project operations, ensuring that projects are executed in accordance with established work plans. This includes supervising support staff, facilitating the development and submission of project documents for funding, and providing guidance on project cycle management (PCM). The role also encompasses monitoring budgets and expenditures, ensuring compliance with donor requirements, and contributing to final project evaluations. The specialist will play a key role in ensuring that the FAO's agenda is implemented effectively at both the sub-regional and country levels.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme and Operations Specialist include: preparing, monitoring, and updating project budgets; ensuring the Logical Framework Matrix (LFM) is complete and relevant data is collected for monitoring project results; maintaining positive working relations with stakeholders; providing reports and receiving guidance from governance mechanisms; identifying and managing potential risks; ensuring all project deliverables are completed and documentation is in order; overseeing project closure and assisting country offices; supporting coordination and tracking of funding activities; monitoring project delivery and taking corrective measures as needed; reviewing financial statements and transaction listings; maintaining updated records of HR monitoring tables; supporting resource mobilization efforts; ensuring technical clearance for project proposals; and contributing to the formulation of project budgets according to FAO procedures.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in Business Administration, Economics, International Relations, or any other relevant discipline. Those with a bachelor's degree must have two additional years of relevant professional experience. Additionally, candidates should have at least one year of relevant experience in programme/project management and/or resource mobilization. A working knowledge of French is required, and proficiency in English is considered an asset.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as Business Administration, Economics, or International Relations. Candidates with a bachelor's degree must have additional professional experience to compensate for the lack of an advanced degree.

Experience:
The position requires at least one year of relevant experience in programme or project management and/or resource mobilization. Candidates should have experience working with government officials, development partners, and other stakeholders at the country level. Experience in leading or participating in multidisciplinary teams for the preparation of strategies and sector studies is also essential.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is French, with full proficiency required. An intermediate knowledge of English is considered an asset, which may enhance communication and collaboration in a multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Dakar, Senegal, and is likely to be a full-time role. The FAO offers a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional development and engagement in significant global initiatives related to food security and sustainable development. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with FAO's policies and standards.