National Operations Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is an agency that leads international efforts to defeat hunger and improve nutrition and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security. Established in 1945, FAO has a mission to help eliminate hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition, ensuring that everyone has regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. The organization operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of approximately 12,000 employees. FAO's work is guided by the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly the goal of achieving zero hunger by 203

• The Subregional Office for the Pacific Islands (SAP) is part of FAO's Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific (RAP) and focuses on developing and implementing strategies that promote sustainable agrifood systems in the Pacific region, fostering relationships with local institutions and stakeholders to enhance food security and agricultural development.

Job Overview:
The National Operations Specialist will play a crucial role in supporting the FAO's mission by providing comprehensive program and project development, coordination, and operational assistance. This position is essential for ensuring the smooth functioning of project operations, consistent service delivery, and continuous evaluation and improvement of the operational environment. The specialist will work under the supervision of the FAO Sub-regional Coordinator for the Pacific and the Administrative Officer, focusing on day-to-day operational matters, compliance with organizational policies, and the effective management of resources. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to adapt to changing project needs, ensuring that all activities align with FAO's strategic objectives and contribute to the overall goal of sustainable development in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Operations Specialist will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: providing overall operations support for project activities and events; preparing, reviewing, and managing documentation related to procurement actions; tracking purchase orders and contracts; maintaining accurate administrative and financial records; monitoring project work plans, budgets, and procurement plans; liaising with project staff and partners; assisting with travel and recruitment needs; supporting finance and administrative procedures; preparing budgets and audit information; maintaining project procurement plans; preparing supporting documents for meetings; providing regular updates on project expenditure; assisting with reporting requirements; and ensuring timely operational and financial closure of projects. The specialist will also perform any other tasks as required and agreed upon with the Line Technical Officers (LTOs).

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in business administration, management, finance, accounting, or a related field. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of three years of relevant experience in finance, financial management of projects, operations management, or a related field. A working knowledge of both English and Samoan languages is essential, and candidates must be nationals of Samoa. FAO core competencies such as results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing and continuous improvement are also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in business administration, management, finance, accounting, or a related field from an accredited institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU) or UNESCO. Candidates should ensure that their qualifications are listed in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
Candidates should have at least three years of relevant experience in areas such as finance, financial management of projects, operations management, or related fields. This experience should demonstrate a strong understanding of project operations and the ability to manage financial and administrative tasks effectively.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory, and proficiency in the Samoan language is also required. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not mandatory for this position.

Additional Notes:
FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or processing. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates should be aware that FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from accredited institutions recognized in the WHED. The appointment will be subject to certification of medical fitness, accreditation, residency or visa requirements, and security clearances. For additional employment opportunities, candidates can visit the FAO employment website.