National Programme and Project Support Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger and achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all. Established in 1945, FAO has a mission to eradicate hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition, and to ensure that all people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. The organization operates in over 130 countries and employs thousands of staff members who work collaboratively with governments, civil society, and the private sector to implement sustainable agricultural practices and improve food systems. The FAO Türkiye Office (FETUR) specifically supports national priorities in agriculture, food systems, natural resource management, and rural development through various programs and projects funded by FAO Regular Programme resources, the Technical Cooperation Programme (TCP), and partnerships with national and international stakeholders.

Job Overview:
The National Programme and Project Support Specialist will play a crucial role in providing technical and operational support for the implementation, monitoring, and reporting of FAO Türkiye's programs and projects. This position is integral to ensuring effective program delivery through comprehensive information management, documentation, operational follow-up, and administrative support in alignment with FAO's established procedures and requirements. The specialist will focus on key projects such as the Technical Assistance towards Brucellosis Control Project and the Responsible Investment for Peace and Social Cohesion (RI4PSC) among Refugee and Host Communities Project. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including government counterparts, implementing partners, and donors, to facilitate the successful execution of program activities and ensure compliance with donor requirements.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the National Programme and Project Support Specialist include providing technical and operational support for the implementation and monitoring of FETUR programs and projects, ensuring adherence to FAO procedures and donor requirements. The specialist will assist in the implementation and follow-up of various program activities, work plans, and schedules. Responsibilities also encompass the collection, compilation, and analysis of program data for monitoring and reporting purposes, as well as contributing to the preparation and quality assurance of technical and operational reports. The specialist will support monitoring and evaluation activities, track project outputs and indicators, and maintain relevant program information in FAO corporate systems. Additionally, the role involves facilitating communication and information-sharing with stakeholders, organizing meetings and training events, supporting procurement processes, and contributing to resource mobilization initiatives. The specialist will also engage in knowledge management and visibility activities related to FETUR programs and projects, and perform other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in agriculture, economics, rural development, international development, public administration, business administration, social sciences, or a related field. A minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in supporting program and/or project management, implementation support, monitoring, and reporting is required, preferably in agriculture, rural development, food systems, natural resource management, or related sectors. Candidates should have a working knowledge of English (Level C) and Turkish, and must be nationals of Türkiye.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree, specifically a Master’s degree or equivalent, in fields such as agriculture, economics, rural development, international development, public administration, business administration, social sciences, or other related disciplines. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of program and project management within the context of food security and agricultural development.

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of relevant professional experience in supporting program and project management, implementation support, monitoring, and reporting. Candidates should have experience in areas such as agriculture, rural development, food systems, natural resource management, and livelihoods. Experience in international or multi-partner projects, as well as familiarity with donor-funded projects and reporting requirements, is considered an asset. The ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize workloads, and meet deadlines in a multicultural environment is also essential.

Languages:
Candidates must have a working knowledge of English (Level C) and Turkish. Proficiency in these languages is mandatory for effective communication and collaboration with stakeholders, including government counterparts and international partners. Additional language skills may be considered advantageous but are not explicitly required for this position.

Additional Notes:
This position is likely to be full-time and may involve a contract duration that aligns with the project timelines. The role is based in Ankara, Türkiye, and is open to national candidates. Compensation and benefits will be in accordance with FAO's policies and standards, and the organization may offer opportunities for professional development and training.