National Officer - Deputy Head of Programme

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, embodying values such as Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion. WFP has been recognized for its efforts, notably being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 202

• The organization is committed to personal and professional development, offering various training and mobility opportunities to its employees.

Job Overview:
The National Officer will report to the Deputy Country Director/Head of Programme at the Barbados Multi-Country Office for the Caribbean. The role involves designing and managing programs of moderate size or complexity that effectively address food assistance needs. The incumbent will also contribute to policy formulation and provide technical advice or oversight on program strategy and implementation. This position requires a proactive approach to managing a portfolio of activities, ensuring alignment with WFP policies and operational realities. The officer will engage with various stakeholders, including government counterparts and partners, to enhance the effectiveness of security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and nutrition programs. The role also includes responsibilities related to climate resilience and disaster risk financing, which are critical in the context of the Caribbean's vulnerability to climate change.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The key accountabilities for this position include contributing to the formulation of WFP-wide program policies, providing advice and support to Country Offices on complex issues, and offering technical expertise on program and policy matters. The officer will assist in identifying opportunities for food assistance, support the planning and implementation of programs, and establish operational partnerships to improve assistance packages. Additionally, the incumbent will manage operational research, prepare analytical reports, and contribute to resource mobilization efforts. The role also involves leading a team, ensuring effective use of financial resources, and contributing to emergency preparedness initiatives. Specific responsibilities include leading the MCO’s work on climate resilience, engaging in donor and government liaison, and supporting emergency response activities across the region.

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 acceptable. Fluency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in the local language, if different, is also required. Candidates should have experience working across program portfolios, leading teams, and engaging in policy discussions.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as International Affairs, Economics, Nutrition/Health, Agriculture, Environmental Science, or Social Sciences. A first university degree combined with relevant work experience may also be considered sufficient. Continuous professional development through training and courses is encouraged and may be necessary for candidates without an advanced degree.

Experience:
Candidates should have substantial experience in program management, particularly in the context of food assistance and humanitarian response. Experience leading a sub-office or a small country/area office program team is desirable, as is engagement in policy discussions and contributions to policy decisions. The role requires a demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and collaborate with various stakeholders, including government institutions and civil society organizations.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of additional languages relevant to the Caribbean region is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term, full-time role with a contract duration of 12 months, eligible for extension based on satisfactory performance and operational requirements. The duty station is Bridgetown, Barbados, and the selected candidate may be required to travel regionally and internationally to support missions and emergency responses. The position offers a competitive salary, up to 30 days of annual leave, pension contributions, health and life insurance, and various learning and development opportunities. WFP is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.