National Project Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is a specialized 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 includes improving agricultural productivity, ensuring sustainable management of natural resources, and enhancing rural livelihoods. In Gambia, FAO is involved in various initiatives, including the Climate Fishery Initiative for Livelihood Improvement (PROREFISH Gambia), which focuses on enhancing resilience and improving livelihoods in vulnerable communities.

Job Overview:
The National Project Coordinator (NPO) will play a pivotal role in the successful implementation of the PROREFISH Gambia project, which aims to enhance the resilience of fisheries infrastructure and improve the livelihoods of vulnerable groups in the Gambia. The NPO will be responsible for leading and coordinating all project activities, ensuring that they align with the project's objectives and outcomes. This position requires strong leadership skills, as the NPO will work closely with various stakeholders, including government authorities, civil society, and private sector partners. The NPO will also provide technical guidance and support to project personnel, ensuring compliance with environmental, socioeconomic, and gender safeguards. The role involves preparing work plans, budgets, and reports, as well as facilitating communication among project partners to foster collaboration and effective implementation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Project Coordinator will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including: coordinating the timely and quality implementation of project components; preparing and adjusting annual work plans and budgets; overseeing project activities to ensure compliance with timelines and safeguards; liaising with stakeholders and establishing effective communication channels; organizing and leading project meetings and workshops; conducting field missions and providing technical support; managing contracts to ensure deliverables meet standards; monitoring risks and implementing mitigation measures; and preparing progress reports as required. The NPO will also be responsible for ensuring that the project meets its objectives and contributes to the overall goals of the FAO in Gambia.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s Degree or equivalent) in Fisheries, Natural Resources, Biological Sciences, or related fields. A minimum of 10 years of experience in fisheries or natural resources management is required, with at least 3 years in project management or coordination roles funded by international partners. Candidates should have a working knowledge of English at Level C and must be nationals of Gambia. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate strong competencies in results focus, teamwork, communication, relationship building, and knowledge sharing.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s Degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Fisheries, Natural Resources, or Biological Sciences. Candidates must have their qualifications recognized by institutions accredited in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in fisheries, natural resources, or related areas. Out of this, at least 3 years must be in management or coordination of development projects funded by international partners. Candidates should have experience in leading multidisciplinary teams and managing project budgets, as well as preparing technical and financial reports.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory, with Level C proficiency required. Additionally, knowledge of any major local languages spoken in Gambia is considered an asset, enhancing communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
The FAO does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates must be medically fit for appointment and meet any residency or visa requirements. The position may involve frequent travel to project sites, and candidates should be prepared for this requirement. The FAO emphasizes the importance of higher educational qualifications obtained from accredited institutions, as listed in the WHED.