Country Program Coordinator II

Job Posting Organization:
The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) is a renowned research organization dedicated to providing evidence-based solutions to reduce poverty and end hunger and malnutrition. Established in 1975, IFPRI operates in over 40 countries and employs a diverse team of experts in various fields related to food policy and agricultural research. The organization aims to improve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and nutrition through research and policy analysis, working closely with governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders to implement effective strategies. IFPRI's mission is to provide research-based policy solutions that promote sustainable food systems and improve the livelihoods of vulnerable populations.

Job Overview:
The Country Program Coordinator II position at IFPRI is a critical role within the Development Strategies and Governance Unit (DSG), focusing on the Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Policy Support Program (PNG-AFNP) in Papua New Guinea. This full-time, two-year renewable appointment is based in Port Moresby and involves coordinating the administrative and operational aspects of the program. The successful candidate will work closely with the Country Program Leader and local research staff to ensure effective management of research activities, administrative tasks, and outreach efforts. The role requires a proactive approach to managing multiple responsibilities, including office administration, research coordination, and policy communication, all aimed at enhancing agricultural development in PNG.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Country Program Coordinator II include:

• Office Management and Administration (70%): - Assist the Country Program Leader with the daily management of local research and administrative staff, including recruitment, work plan development, supervision, and performance reviews. - Collaborate with administrative staff and vendors to ensure efficient administrative services, including procurement, office maintenance, technical/IT services, and vehicle fleet management. - Draft and monitor consultant collaborative agreements, serving as a liaison between program collaborators and finance/administrative issues, and review monthly financial reports while providing financial analysis on projects. - Coordinate seminars and workshops, overseeing logistical arrangements. - Liaise with IFPRI's Finance and Administration Department on finance, security, HR, and administrative needs. - Assist in updating the annual work program and project proposals.
• Research (10%): - Support the Country Program Leader in coordinating research activities with IFPRI staff and collaborators. - Provide guidance on administrative issues to facilitate research activities for locally recruited research support staff and collaborators. - Participate in fieldwork activities, including empirical research and synthesis.
• Outreach and Policy Communication (20%): - Track progress in the agricultural development sector and inform participants in ongoing policy discussions. - Assist the Country Program Leader in maintaining active policy communication with stakeholders in PNG regarding agricultural development. - Help organize regular workshops and seminars on research topics, including one major policy research seminar annually. - Support the publication of working papers, research notes, newsletters, or other outputs.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Country Program Coordinator II position include: - A Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Agricultural Economics, Public Policy, Development Studies, or a closely related field, along with two years of relevant work experience, or a Master’s degree in the aforementioned fields. - Proven experience in coordinating research, capacity building, and communication efforts related to agricultural and food policy. - Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate the results of agriculture and food policy research to diverse audiences. - Knowledge and experience working in Papua New Guinea. - Strong ability to work across disciplines and manage multiple tasks with minimal supervision in a fast-paced environment. - Attention to detail and the ability to work collaboratively in a multicultural environment. - Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including word processing and spreadsheet programs. - Excellent written and spoken English skills.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Agricultural Economics, Public Policy, Development Studies, or a closely related field. A Master’s degree in these areas is preferred and may substitute for some work experience requirements. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in economic principles, policy analysis, and development strategies relevant to agricultural and food systems.

Experience:
The position requires at least two years of relevant work experience in roles that involve research coordination, capacity building, and communication efforts related to agricultural and food policy. Experience in managing projects and working with diverse stakeholders in a multicultural environment is essential. Familiarity with the agricultural development sector in Papua New Guinea is highly desirable, as is experience in NGO settings.

Languages:
The mandatory language requirement for this position is excellent written and spoken English. Proficiency in Tok Pisin is preferred, as it will facilitate communication with local stakeholders and enhance outreach efforts. Knowledge of additional languages relevant to the region may also be beneficial.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a two-year renewable contract based in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. Candidates must have work authorization to work in Papua New Guinea. The role involves a significant amount of office management and administrative responsibilities, as well as research coordination and policy communication. The successful candidate will be expected to engage actively with local stakeholders and contribute to the overall goals of the PNG-AFNP program.