SADC Anticipatory Action and Emergency Officer

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 are committed to the mission of alleviating hunger and improving nutrition. WFP's vision is to create a diverse, skilled, and high-performing workforce that operates in an inclusive environment, embodying values such as Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion. The organization has been recognized for its efforts, notably being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 202

• WFP is committed to professional development, offering training, mentorship, and opportunities for internal mobility, making it an attractive workplace for individuals passionate about humanitarian work.

Job Overview:
The SADC Anticipatory Action and Emergency Officer will play a crucial role in strengthening and institutionalizing a regional anticipatory action and early response system in collaboration with the Southern African Development Community (SADC). This position will be hosted by WFP on behalf of the Inter-agency Project Team, which includes FAO and IFRC. The Officer will provide advisory support to the SADC Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Unit and work closely with the SADC Secretariat and the SADC Humanitarian and Emergency Operations Centre (SHOC) Secretariat. The role involves developing frameworks and standard operating procedures for anticipatory action, ensuring integration with national systems, and enhancing regional planning processes. The Officer will also contribute to knowledge management and facilitate partnerships to bolster early action and preparedness efforts across the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support the institutionalization of Anticipatory Action Programming within the SADC region and the Regional Anticipatory Action Working Group (RAAWG).
• Collaborate with RAAWG to develop a regional anticipatory action framework, including Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and minimum standards.
• Ensure alignment of the AA framework with national systems and integration into SADC’s regional planning processes.
• Strengthen regional integration by utilizing Member States’ data for informed decision-making.
• Support the integration of anticipatory action into regional contingency planning and disaster preparedness processes.
• Contribute to the development of regional knowledge products and facilitate information exchange platforms.
• Build strategic partnerships with governments and institutions to enhance anticipatory action and preparedness.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a post-graduate degree (Masters) in fields such as disaster risk management, environment and climate change management, development planning, or international development. A first-level university degree combined with additional relevant experience may also be considered. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of humanitarian response and disaster risk management systems.

Educational Background:
A post-graduate degree (Masters) in disaster risk management, environment and climate change management, development planning, rural and urban planning, environmental management, international development, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree may be accepted if accompanied by relevant experience.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of professional experience in humanitarian response, disaster risk management systems, or emergency management is required. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in complex environments and collaborating with multiple stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory. Knowledge of additional languages relevant to the SADC region would be considered an asset, enhancing communication and collaboration with diverse partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and may involve travel within the SADC region. The contract duration and specific compensation details will be outlined in the Terms and Conditions section of the vacancy announcement. WFP is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. All applications must be submitted through the online recruiting system, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further stages of the recruitment process.