Programme Policy Officer (Cash-based Transfers)

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 individuals 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 is recognized for its efforts and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020 for its contributions to combating hunger and promoting peace. The organization values diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all employees have equal opportunities regardless of their background. WFP is committed to creating a healthy and inclusive work environment, where employees can thrive and contribute to the mission of saving lives and changing lives through effective humanitarian assistance.

Job Overview:
The Programme Policy Officer (Cash-based Transfers) position at WFP Pakistan is crucial for the implementation of cash and voucher interventions across various sectors, including education, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, nutrition, climate resilience, and emergency response. The officer will be based in the WFP Country Office in Islamabad and will report directly to the Head of Social Protection and Cash-Based Transfers (CBT). This role involves providing both technical and operational support to enhance WFP's engagement in cash-based transfers, which are essential for delivering humanitarian assistance effectively. The officer will be responsible for ensuring compliance with WFP's corporate procedures and assurance measures while liaising with key partners, including government entities, financial service providers, and other UN agencies. The position also entails supporting the internal Cash Working Group and contributing to the broader humanitarian cash coordination efforts in Pakistan.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The key responsibilities of the Programme Policy Officer (Cash-based Transfers) include:

• Supporting the design and implementation of cash and voucher activities across various thematic areas at the country office, provincial, and field levels.
• Ensuring compliance with WFP corporate procedures and assurance measures related to cash-based transfers.
• Liaising with key partners on cash-based transfers, including government agencies, financial service providers, cooperating partners, and UN agencies.
• Actively supporting WFP Pakistan’s internal Cash Working Group and its leadership role in the Inter-agency Humanitarian Cash Working Group.
• Assisting in the implementation of cash-based transfer social protection initiatives.
• Performing any other tasks or duties that align with the position level and expertise, as required by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an Advanced University Degree in Development Studies, Economics, Humanitarian Action, or a related field. Alternatively, a First University Degree with an additional 2 years of relevant work experience and/or training/courses is acceptable. The role requires a minimum of 3 years of post-graduate professional experience in cash-based programming, digital financial inclusion, emergency preparedness and response, and/or social protection. Previous experience in designing and implementing cash and voucher interventions, as well as preparing funding proposals and managing projects, is essential. Candidates should demonstrate proven ability to coordinate with government, humanitarian, and development partners, along with excellent analytical, communication, and report-writing skills.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an Advanced University Degree in Development Studies, Economics, Humanitarian Action, or a related field. In cases where candidates hold a First University Degree, they must have an additional 2 years of relevant work experience and/or training/courses to qualify for the role. It is important that all educational documents are verified and attested by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) in Pakistan, as the appointment will be contingent upon the submission of HEC-verified degrees.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 3 years of post-graduate professional experience in relevant fields such as cash-based programming, digital financial inclusion, emergency preparedness and response, and social protection. Candidates should have a proven track record of designing and implementing cash and voucher interventions, as well as experience in preparing funding proposals and managing projects effectively. This level of experience is crucial for ensuring that the officer can contribute meaningfully to WFP's objectives and the successful implementation of cash-based transfer initiatives.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written communication in English and Urdu is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of additional local languages is highly desirable, as it can enhance communication and engagement with diverse communities and stakeholders in Pakistan.

Additional Notes:
This position is offered as a Service Contract for a duration of 6 months, specifically targeting Pakistan Nationals only. The vacancy announcement will also be utilized to build a roster of prequalified applicants for future opportunities within the same job profile at the current or lower level in Pakistan. WFP provides a competitive benefits package that includes salary, social security contributions, medical insurance, annual leave, parental leave, and other benefits. It is important to note that 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.