Project Coordinator / Acting Head of the FAO Project Office

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is an agency that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has over 194 member countries and works in more than 130 countries worldwide. The organization aims to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. FAO's mission is to help eliminate hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition, promote sustainable agriculture, and ensure the sustainable management of natural resources.

Job Overview:
The Project Coordinator / Acting Head of the FAO Project Office in Sukhumi is responsible for overseeing the daily management of the FAO Project Office and providing technical support in agronomy for the implementation of agricultural projects in Abkhazia. This role involves ensuring the effective execution of projects aimed at increasing resilience in local communities through improved agricultural practices. The Project Coordinator will work closely with local staff and stakeholders to implement good agricultural practices, manage resources, and coordinate project activities effectively. The position requires a strong understanding of agricultural practices and the ability to lead and motivate teams to achieve project goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
As the head of the FAO Project Office in Sukhumi, the Project Coordinator will ensure the daily management of the office, provide guidance to local staff, manage FAO assets, act as the local Head of Agency for UN coordination, and serve as the Security focal point for FAO in Abkhazia. Responsibilities include supporting the establishment of demonstration plots, guiding local teams in implementing agricultural practices, overseeing project progress, organizing training programs, preparing project reports, maintaining work and procurement plans, and ensuring the implementation of the viticulture project. The Project Coordinator will also be responsible for monitoring crop pests and diseases, creating concept notes for project activities, and updating workplans and budgets for all projects under the Abkhazia component.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in agriculture, agronomy, food technology, or a related field recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO. Those with a bachelor's degree must have two additional years of relevant professional experience. A minimum of five years of relevant experience in agriculture, particularly in managing and monitoring agriculture-related projects, is required. Candidates should also have a working knowledge of English and Russian, as well as strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in agriculture, agronomy, food technology, or a related discipline. For candidates with a bachelor's degree, two additional years of relevant professional experience are necessary to meet the educational requirements.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of relevant experience in the agricultural sector, with proven experience in managing and monitoring agriculture-related projects. Experience in project management at the field level is essential, and familiarity with the agricultural context in the region will be considered an asset.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English and Russian is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication and collaboration with local staff and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Sukhumi, Georgia, and involves full-time responsibilities. The role may require occasional travel within the region to oversee project activities and coordinate with various stakeholders. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with FAO's policies and standards.