Animal Health Programme Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is dedicated to achieving security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensuring that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. Established in 1945, FAO has over 194 member countries and works in more than 130 countries worldwide. The organization focuses on eradicating hunger, improving nutrition, and promoting sustainable agriculture. In Yemen, FAO's office is responsible for addressing food, agriculture, and rural development priorities, developing strategies, and maintaining relations with relevant ministries to support the country's agricultural sectors and natural resource management.

Job Overview:
The Animal Health Programme Manager will play a crucial role in planning and supporting the implementation of animal disease surveillance systems in Yemen. This position involves overseeing livestock vaccination and treatment campaigns, as well as conducting pre and post-vaccination evaluations. The incumbent will work closely with project managers and technical teams to ensure effective execution of animal health programs, contributing to the overall goal of improving food security and reducing malnutrition in the region. The role requires a proactive approach to capacity building within the General Directorate of Animal Health and Veterinary Quarantine (GDAHVQ), facilitating training courses for laboratory technicians and surveillance officers, and supporting the planning and implementation of veterinary extension staff training.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for assisting in the preparation and implementation of disease surveillance systems and vaccination campaigns. This includes conducting pre and post-vaccination evaluations and providing technical support to GDAHVQ in laboratory analysis of serum samples. The role also involves following up with GDAHVQ and agriculture offices on technical and financial reports and preparing payments for Letters of Agreement (LoAs). Additionally, the Animal Health Programme Manager will assist in organizing training courses on animal disease diagnostics and transboundary animal diseases for laboratory technicians and surveillance officers. The position requires supporting the planning and coordination of meetings with various stakeholders, collecting and reviewing data related to One Health and Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in northern governorates, and contributing to the development of an effective animal health strategy.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in veterinary medicine, veterinary epidemiology, or a related field. A minimum of 5 years of directly applicable experience in managing animal health programs or related experiences is required. Additionally, candidates must have a working knowledge of both English and Arabic, and must be nationals of Yemen or residents of the country with a valid work permit. The role demands strong technical and functional skills, including the ability to plan, organize, implement, and report on project interventions, as well as excellent communication skills in English, both orally and in writing.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree in veterinary medicine, veterinary epidemiology, or a related field is essential for this position. This educational background provides the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage animal health programs and contribute to the overall goals of the FAO in Yemen.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in managing animal health programs or related fields. This experience should include working in various locations or areas of work, demonstrating the ability to implement projects effectively. Experience working with government entities, NGOs, or UN agencies is highly valued, as is relevant work experience in emergency contexts.

Languages:
Proficiency in both English and Arabic is mandatory for this position. Strong communication skills in English, both written and oral, are essential, particularly for drafting technical reports. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Yemen, specifically in Aden and Sanaa, and may involve travel between these locations. The job does not specify a deadline for applications, and it is important for candidates to be aware of the local context and challenges in Yemen. The role is expected to be full-time, and candidates should be prepared for the complexities of working in an emergency context.