Programme Policy Officer (Head WFP Western Nepal Region)

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 eradicating hunger and improving nutrition. WFP's vision emphasizes a diverse, skilled, and high-performing workforce that operates in an inclusive environment, adhering to core values such as Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion. The organization has received numerous accolades, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020, recognizing its efforts in humanitarian assistance. WFP is dedicated to fostering a workplace that values diversity and encourages qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply, ensuring equal employment opportunities for all individuals.

Job Overview:
The Programme Policy Officer (Head WFP Western Nepal Region) will play a crucial role in overseeing the day-to-day management of WFP operations in western Nepal. This position is integral to the implementation of WFP's five-year Country Strategic Plan, which encompasses a range of activities aimed at enhancing food systems, emergency preparedness, nutrition, climate resilience, and service provision. The officer will work closely with various technical support units to ensure the effective delivery and integration of assistance, while also maintaining accountability for the security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security of WFP staff and operations. The role requires a strong focus on building collaborative relationships with local governments, NGOs, and other partners to enhance the effectiveness of humanitarian assistance. The officer will also be responsible for monitoring and evaluating activities, preparing comprehensive reports, and guiding junior staff, thereby contributing to the overall success of WFP's mission in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for a variety of key accountabilities, including:

• Overseeing the management of all WFP operations in western Nepal, ensuring the development of a cohesive and high-performing team.
• Planning and implementing WFP operations in collaboration with technical support units to ensure effective assistance delivery.
• Ensuring efficient use of allocated resources and reporting any deviations to the supervisor.
• Maintaining accountability for the security of WFP staff and assets, participating in the Area Security Management Team (ASMT).
• Conducting timely monitoring and evaluation of activities, preparing accurate reports on WFP operations.
• Designing joint projects with UN and other partners, coordinating closely with the Country Office Program Unit.
• Building effective relationships with local governments and contributing to capacity building for effective preparedness and response.
• Developing strategic partnerships with local authorities, NGOs, UN agencies, and other stakeholders.
• Ensuring frequent presence at project areas and distribution sites. 1
• Contributing to the development of various projects and processes, ensuring alignment with program policies. 1
• Guiding and supervising junior staff, providing support with analysis and queries. 1
• Performing other duties as required by the function.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in International Affairs, Economics, Nutrition/Health, Agriculture, Environmental Science, Social Sciences, or a related field relevant to international development assistance. Alternatively, a first university degree with additional years of related work experience and/or training may be accepted. The position requires strong analytical skills, the ability to work collaboratively, and a commitment to WFP's mission and values. Candidates should demonstrate a capacity for strategic thinking and effective communication, as well as a proven ability to manage resources efficiently and effectively.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in relevant fields such as International Affairs, Economics, Nutrition/Health, Agriculture, Environmental Science, or Social Sciences. A first university degree may be acceptable if accompanied by additional relevant work experience and training. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of international development and humanitarian assistance, as well as for effectively contributing to WFP's strategic objectives.

Experience:
Candidates should have three or more years of professional work experience in a relevant field, particularly in roles that involve program management, policy development, or humanitarian assistance. Experience in field operations, especially in challenging environments or emergency situations, is highly desirable. The ideal candidate will have a track record of managing projects, analyzing local political situations, and assessing risks, as well as experience in leading teams and engaging with various stakeholders to achieve program objectives.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written communication in English and Nepali is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of local languages is considered an added advantage, as it can enhance communication and engagement with local communities and stakeholders. Proficiency in multiple languages can also facilitate collaboration with diverse partners and improve the effectiveness of WFP's operations in the region.

Additional Notes:
The position is offered as 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 for this role is Surkhet, Nepal. WFP provides a competitive benefits package, including salary and health insurance through CIGNA. The organization encourages applications from female candidates and individuals with disabilities, emphasizing its commitment to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. All applications must be submitted through WFP's online recruiting system, and candidates are advised to ensure their profiles are complete and accurate before applying.