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 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 alleviating hunger and improving nutrition. WFP's core values include Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion, and it strives to create a diverse and inclusive work environment. The organization has been recognized for its efforts, notably receiving the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020 for its work in combating hunger and promoting peace. WFP is dedicated to fostering a culture of learning and development, offering various training and professional growth opportunities to its employees, and encouraging them to engage in meaningful work that impacts millions of lives globally.

Job Overview:
The Programme Policy Officer - Cash Based Transfers (CBT) position is crucial for advancing WFP's strategic vision in South Sudan, particularly in the context of cash-based assistance. The role involves supporting the implementation of effective cash transfer modalities to enhance security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and resilience among vulnerable populations. The incumbent will spend 60% of their time focusing on WFP operations and strategic vision for CBT, while the remaining 40% will be dedicated to co-chairing the National Cash Working Group. This position requires a proactive approach to identifying innovative solutions to address food insecurity and improve the efficiency of assistance delivery. The officer will engage with various stakeholders, including government counterparts, NGOs, and local communities, to ensure that cash-based transfers are effectively integrated into WFP's programming. The role also emphasizes the importance of data-driven decision-making and the use of technology to enhance the delivery of cash assistance.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Policy Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including: providing advice and support to Field Offices on Cash Based Transfers to ensure compliance with WFP policies; driving the strategic use of SCOPE and IDM systems to enhance beneficiary management; promoting interoperability between cash delivery systems; contributing to the development of a long-term vision for digital assistance delivery; advising management on strategic trade-offs related to CBT models; developing training programs to enhance the capacity of WFP staff and partners; facilitating discussions within the National Cash Working Group; engaging with diverse stakeholders to promote coherent approaches to cash assistance; developing standard tools and guidance; liaising with sector working groups to ensure complementarity; promoting cash assistance coverage through information sharing; and compiling evidence to inform interventions and contribute to regional learning. The officer will also be expected to travel to field offices as needed to support operational requirements.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Economics, Statistics, or a related field relevant to international development and cash-based transfer assistance. Alternatively, a bachelor's degree with additional years of relevant professional experience may be considered. The position requires a strong understanding of cash-based transfer programs and the ability to navigate complex humanitarian contexts. Candidates should demonstrate excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, and the ability to engage with a variety of stakeholders effectively. A commitment to humanitarian principles and the ability to maintain impartiality in discussions is essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as Engineering, Computer Science, Economics, or Statistics. For those with a bachelor's degree, additional years of professional experience in related areas are necessary. The educational qualifications should align with the demands of designing and implementing cash-based transfer programs in humanitarian or development contexts.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of postgraduate professional experience in designing and implementing cash-based transfer programs for candidates with a master's degree. For those with a bachelor's degree, a minimum of seven years of relevant experience is required. At least three years of field-based experience is essential, particularly in emergency operations or hardship duty stations. Familiarity with financial and payment systems that support cash-based transfers is desirable, as is experience in coordinating multi-sectoral groups in humanitarian or development settings.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Intermediate knowledge of a second official UN language is considered an added advantage. The ability to communicate effectively in multiple languages can enhance collaboration with diverse stakeholders and improve the overall effectiveness of cash-based transfer programs.

Additional Notes:
This position is a Regular International Consultant role at Level 2, with a duration of 11 months, subject to renewal based on performance and funding availability. The recruitment process will also serve as a roster for similar or lower grade levels, allowing for potential placement in different duty stations as operational needs arise. Female candidates are highly encouraged to apply, reflecting WFP's commitment to gender equality and diversity in the workplace. The organization offers an attractive compensation package, and all employment decisions are made based on organizational needs, job requirements, merit, and individual qualifications. WFP is dedicated to providing an inclusive work environment free from discrimination and harassment.