Senior Investigator (Head of Unit)

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the Inspector-General (OIG) is a vital component of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), dedicated to providing oversight of FAO's programs and operations through internal audits and investigations. Established to ensure accountability and integrity within the organization, OIG plays a crucial role in investigating allegations of misconduct involving FAO personnel and third parties. The office is staffed by a team of professionals who are committed to upholding the highest ethical standards and promoting policies that enhance the integrity of FAO's operations. OIG operates globally, reflecting FAO's international presence, and is instrumental in fostering a culture of transparency and accountability across its various programs.

Job Overview:
The Senior Investigator (Head of Unit) position within the OIG's Investigation Branch (OIGI) is a leadership role focused on overseeing investigations into allegations of misconduct and wrongdoing by FAO personnel and third parties. This position requires a strategic approach to planning and managing investigation activities, ensuring that all investigations are conducted in accordance with established policies and procedures. The Senior Investigator will be responsible for directing investigation teams, providing technical guidance, and ensuring the quality and integrity of investigation outcomes. The role also involves developing recommendations to improve internal controls and prevent violations of FAO policies, thereby enhancing the overall integrity of the organization. The Senior Investigator will work closely with senior management and other stakeholders to promote best practices in investigations and integrity policies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Investigator will be tasked with planning and managing the work of specialized investigation teams, supervising staff, and providing critical input into the investigation program. Key responsibilities include directing investigation activities in response to allegations of fraud, corruption, and misconduct, reviewing intake assessments, and assigning investigations to staff or consultants. The Senior Investigator will conduct complex investigations, present findings to senior management, and ensure quality control of investigation outcomes. Additionally, the role involves preparing statistics and periodic reports on investigation matters, developing lessons learned, and conducting proactive integrity reviews. The Senior Investigator will also provide technical advisory services to managers across the organization, lead awareness and training activities on fraud prevention, and contribute to OIG's quarterly and annual reports.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in law or a related field associated with criminal and/or administrative investigations. Alternatively, candidates with a first-level university degree in the aforementioned fields may be considered if they have two additional years of relevant work experience in fact-finding or investigatory work, along with a professional qualification to practice law in a national/state jurisdiction. A minimum of ten years of relevant experience in fact-finding and investigatory work is required, including supervisory experience, preferably in areas related to employee misconduct, procurement fraud, and corruption.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in law or a related field. Candidates with a first-level university degree may also be considered if they possess additional relevant work experience and a professional qualification to practice law. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of legal and procedural issues related to investigations.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of ten years of relevant experience in fact-finding and investigatory work, including experience in a supervisory capacity. Candidates should have a strong background in investigating misconduct and wrongdoing by employees, suppliers, and partner organizations, particularly in relation to fraud and corruption. Experience in an international setting and in multiple locations or areas of work is highly desirable, as it enhances the candidate's ability to navigate diverse cultural and operational contexts.

Languages:
Candidates must have a working knowledge (proficiency - level C) of English and intermediate knowledge (intermediate - level B) of another official FAO language, which may include Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish. Proficiency in multiple languages is advantageous and reflects the international nature of the organization and its operations.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Rome, Italy, at FAO headquarters. The role is full-time and involves significant responsibilities in managing investigations and promoting integrity within the organization. The Senior Investigator will be expected to lead and coordinate various initiatives, participate in organization-wide working groups, and maintain effective liaison with legal and human resource services. The position may also involve administering and controlling a part of OIG's budget as delegated by the Inspector-General or Deputy Inspector-General. Candidates should be prepared for a dynamic work environment that requires adaptability and a commitment to upholding the highest ethical standards.