Inspector-General

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 support the transformation to more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agri-food systems. The organization operates in over 130 countries and employs thousands of staff members dedicated to achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. FAO's work encompasses a wide range of areas including agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and rural development, with a focus on improving production, nutrition, and environmental sustainability.

Job Overview:
The Inspector-General is a critical position within the FAO, reporting directly to the Director-General. This role is responsible for designing, organizing, and directing a comprehensive internal oversight program that includes both internal audits and investigations. The Inspector-General evaluates the effectiveness of the organization's governance, risk management, and internal controls, providing independent assurance to the Director-General. The position requires the development of a long-term strategy and a risk-based internal audit plan that aligns with FAO's Strategic Framework. The Inspector-General also ensures that allegations of misconduct are assessed and investigated promptly, and is tasked with promoting the findings of the Office of the Inspector-General to enhance organizational integrity and accountability.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Inspector-General include:

• Designing and implementing a coordinated internal oversight program for FAO's operations.
• Evaluating the adequacy and effectiveness of governance, risk management, and internal controls.
• Advising the Director-General on audit functions and programs with independent assurance.
• Developing a long-term strategy and risk-based internal audit plan.
• Ensuring timely assessment and investigation of allegations of wrongdoing.
• Promoting findings and lessons learned from investigations for policy formulation.
• Managing financial and human resources of the Office of the Inspector-General.
• Establishing a quality assurance program to meet international standards.
• Reporting to the FAO Finance Committee on oversight activities. 1
• Representing the organization in oversight matters and performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an Advanced University Degree (Master’s level or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Auditing, Accounting, Law, Business, or Public Administration. A first-level university degree may be accepted if accompanied by a professional certification from a recognized auditing body. Desirable qualifications include a Certified Internal Auditor designation and additional certifications like CISA, CFE, or CMA. Candidates should have extensive experience in oversight functions, preferably in international environments, with at least ten years at an executive level or as Chief Audit Executive. Strong leadership, managerial skills, and the ability to handle sensitive issues with diplomacy are essential. Familiarity with the UN system or similar institutions is advantageous.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Inspector-General position includes an Advanced University Degree (Master’s level or equivalent) in fields such as Auditing, Accounting, Law, Business, Public Administration, or Management. A first-level university degree may be considered if the candidate holds a professional certification from an internationally recognized auditing and accountancy body. Additional certifications such as Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) or equivalent are desirable and can enhance a candidate's profile.

Experience:
Candidates are expected to have extensive experience in a complex oversight function, ideally within an international context. This includes a minimum of ten years of high-level professional experience, particularly in roles that involve innovative auditing and management techniques. Experience as a Chief Audit Executive (CAE) is highly regarded, along with demonstrated leadership and managerial skills. The ability to navigate complex and sensitive issues with professionalism and confidentiality is crucial for this role.

Languages:
The position requires a working knowledge (proficiency - level C) of English, along with intermediate knowledge (intermediate proficiency - level B) of another FAO official language, which could be Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish. Proficiency in multiple languages is advantageous and can facilitate communication within the diverse international environment of FAO.

Additional Notes:
The Inspector-General position is appointed for a non-renewable term of seven years, with no possibility of employment within FAO at the end of the term. This role is expected to be full-time and may involve international recruitment. The position offers a unique opportunity to lead oversight functions within a prestigious international organization, contributing to the integrity and accountability of FAO's operations.