Programme Policy Officer (Nutrition and Fortification)

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, living by its core values of Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion. The organization has received numerous accolades, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020, recognizing its efforts in combating hunger and promoting security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security globally. WFP is also committed to fostering a workplace that embraces diversity and encourages qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply, ensuring equal employment opportunities for all.

Job Overview:
The Programme Policy Officer (Nutrition and Fortification) will lead WFP Nepal's nutrition portfolio, focusing on rice fortification and nutrition-sensitive social protection initiatives. This role is crucial in aligning with WFP Nepal's Country Strategic Plan and aims to strengthen government capacity in integrating nutrition objectives into national frameworks. The incumbent will be responsible for designing, implementing, and monitoring nutrition-sensitive programs, ensuring that they are evidence-based and aligned with government priorities. The position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including government ministries and the private sector, to promote and establish partnerships that enhance nutrition-sensitive social protection programs. The officer will also contribute to communication and advocacy efforts to raise awareness and commitment towards nutrition initiatives, ensuring that the benefits of fortified foods are understood by the communities served. This role is pivotal in addressing malnutrition and improving food security in Nepal, leveraging WFP's extensive experience and knowledge of the local context.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will have a range of responsibilities, including:

• Providing technical assistance to strengthen government capacity and integrate nutrition objectives into national social protection frameworks.
• Supporting the design, implementation, and monitoring of nutrition-sensitive social protection programs, such as cash grants and school meals.
• Coordinating partnerships with government ministries and stakeholders to ensure alignment on nutrition-sensitive programs.
• Developing plans for capacity strengthening in large-scale food fortification and promoting public-private partnerships.
• Creating communication and advocacy materials to enhance understanding of nutrition-sensitive programs.
• Supporting the implementation of WFP's country strategic plan by ensuring cross-cutting efforts are integrated.
• Collaborating with field offices and nutrition staff to develop success stories and advocacy materials.
• Overseeing budget implementation and tracking expenditures for nutrition activities.
• Liaising with technical units for monitoring and evaluation of nutrition-related activities. 1
• Supporting internal WFP processes and ensuring compliance with deadlines. 1
• Building capacities and establishing partnerships with local academic and research institutions. 1
• Representing WFP in technical forums and coordinating with various stakeholders to ensure synergies in project implementation.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's) in food science and technology, nutrition, agriculture, public health, or a related field. Alternatively, a first university degree with additional years of relevant work experience and/or training may be considered. The ideal candidate should have at least three years of post-graduate professional experience in food processing, nutrition, and public health policy and programming. Experience in supporting government initiatives related to food fortification and nutrition is essential. Candidates should demonstrate strategic thinking, strong communication skills, and the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders effectively. Knowledge of food quality and safety standards is also required.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's) in a relevant field such as food science and technology, nutrition, agriculture, or public health is required. A first university degree with additional relevant experience may also be acceptable. Candidates should have a solid understanding of nutrition and food systems, as well as experience in policy design and implementation.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of professional experience in the relevant fields, particularly in food processing, nutrition, and public health. Candidates should have a proven track record of supporting government programs related to nutrition and food fortification, as well as experience in implementing nutrition-sensitive programs. Strong analytical skills and the ability to evaluate data and make informed decisions are essential.

Languages:
Excellent communication skills in both written and spoken English and Nepali are mandatory. Knowledge of other local languages is considered an asset, and proficiency in Nepali typing is advantageous.

Additional Notes:
The position is a Service Contract (SC) at Level SC L9, with a contract duration of 12 months, which is renewable based on performance and organizational needs. The duty station is Kathmandu, Nepal. WFP offers a competitive benefits package, including salary and health insurance through CIGNA. The organization encourages applications from female candidates and individuals with disabilities, promoting an inclusive work environment. All applications must be submitted through WFP's online recruiting system, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further stages of the recruitment process.