Assistant FAO Representative (Programme)

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the UN that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO's mission is 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. With 195 Members (194 countries and the European Union), FAO operates in over 130 countries worldwide, providing policy advice and support to countries in the areas of food and agriculture. FAO's commitment to environmental sustainability is integral to its strategic objectives and operations, contributing to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda through the FAO Strategic Framework. The organization advocates for policies and investments in food and agriculture, provides technical assistance, and ensures effective operations aligned with international standards of accountability.

Job Overview:
The Assistant FAO Representative (Programme) plays a crucial role in the FAO Representation in Solomon Islands, specifically in Honiara. This position involves the development, coordination, and operational assistance of programs and projects based on a deep understanding of local conditions, culture, language, and institutions. The role is pivotal in ensuring effective and efficient coordination and provision of technical and operational support for the FAO's initiatives in the country. The Assistant Representative will work closely with government authorities and various institutions, representing FAO at interagency meetings and promoting the organization's mandate and activities. The position requires a proactive approach to program development, monitoring, and evaluation, ensuring that all operational activities align with the established work plans and project documents.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Assistant FAO Representative (Programme) will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including: liaising with government authorities and local, national, and international institutions regarding FAO's activities; promoting FAO's image through advocacy and communication tools; coordinating the collection and maintenance of country data on food, crops, livestock, forestry, and fisheries; participating in the production of technical and policy studies; identifying and formulating program and project proposals; monitoring and reviewing program/project implementation; briefing and supervising lower-grade program staff; leading the Programme Unit; implementing the national Resource Mobilization Strategy; strengthening collaboration with private sector partners and civil society organizations; integrating gender perspectives throughout the program cycle; providing policy and technical advice to government counterparts; and ensuring compliance with FAO procedures.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must meet the following minimum requirements: be a national of the country of assignment; possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as agriculture, agricultural economics, forestry, fisheries, natural resources, rural development, business administration, or international relations, with three years of relevant experience in programming, planning, and technical cooperation in food and agriculture; or hold a first-level university degree (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) with five years of relevant experience. Additionally, candidates must have a working knowledge of English and Pidgin.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in fields related to agriculture, agricultural economics, forestry, fisheries, natural resources, rural development, business administration, or international relations. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) is acceptable if accompanied by additional relevant experience in the field.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of three years of relevant experience in public and/or private sectors related to programming, planning, and technical cooperation in food and agriculture, or project implementation in areas related to FAO's activities. This experience should demonstrate a strong understanding of program/project development and management, as well as policy analysis related to nutrition" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food and nutrition security, agriculture, and rural development.

Languages:
Proficiency in English and Pidgin is mandatory for this position. Candidates should demonstrate a working knowledge of these languages to effectively communicate and collaborate with stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Honiara, Solomon Islands, and is expected to be a full-time role. The Assistant FAO Representative (Programme) will be involved in various aspects of program management and development, including fundraising and collaboration with local donors. The role emphasizes the importance of gender equality and the integration of gender perspectives throughout the program cycle, ensuring that all initiatives are inclusive and equitable.