Programme Policy Officer (Deputy Head of Programme)

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, established to save lives in emergencies and to use food assistance as a means to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. WFP has been operational in Armenia since 1994, initially focusing on emergency operations and gradually transitioning to resilience building and recovery programming. The organization is committed to diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging qualified candidates from various backgrounds to apply. WFP has a global presence, operating in numerous countries and employing a diverse workforce dedicated to humanitarian efforts. The organization was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020, highlighting its significant contributions to global peace and humanitarian assistance.

Job Overview:
The Programme Policy Officer (Deputy Head of Programme) at WFP Armenia will provide strategic leadership and oversight of the programme portfolio, ensuring that interventions align with corporate priorities, national strategies, and operational needs. This role is crucial in the design, implementation, and oversight of programmes, ensuring effective delivery while maintaining a strong focus on results and accountability. The officer will work closely with the Head of Programme to develop and implement programmes that support security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, nutrition, and rural livelihoods, as well as facilitate the transition of key capacities and methodologies to the Armenian government. The position requires a proactive approach to identifying challenges and proposing solutions to optimize programme delivery, as well as fostering collaboration across teams and partners to promote innovative programming approaches.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Policy Officer (Deputy Head of Programme) will be responsible for a variety of key accountabilities, including:

• Supporting the Head of Programme in the development, planning, and implementation of programmes aligned with WFP’s strategic objectives.
• Providing project management support to ensure a coordinated approach with field offices and compliance with WFP standards.
• Offering technical expertise and guidance to programme teams for effective implementation of activities, including intervention strategies, workplans, and budgets.
• Monitoring programme progress, identifying challenges, and proposing solutions to optimize delivery.
• Overseeing programme delivery and ensuring accountability systems are in place.
• Coordinating operations of Field Offices to align with the Programme Unit Implementation Plan.
• Supporting the Head of Programme in defining transition pathways to government ownership and sustainability.
• Identifying risks in programme implementation and developing mitigation strategies.
• Ensuring compliance with WFP policies, procedures, and donor requirements. 1
• Supporting capacity transfer initiatives for implementing partners and stakeholders. 1
• Conducting analysis on policy and operational issues to support strategic decision-making. 1
• Strengthening accountability frameworks and enhancing reporting processes across teams. 1
• Fostering effective partnerships with government counterparts, UN agencies, donors, and NGOs. 1
• Contributing to resource mobilization efforts and enhancing visibility and advocacy for the programme. 1
• Providing guidance and mentorship to support staff and promoting continuous learning and knowledge sharing across teams.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Economics, Social Sciences, Disaster Risk Management, Public Policy, or related fields. Additionally, they should have at least 7 years of postgraduate experience in the design, implementation, and coordination of programmes focused on government capacity strengthening and institutional development. Demonstrated leadership in implementing programmes, strong analytical and communication skills, and the ability to foster partnerships and work effectively with diverse teams are essential. Familiarity with the UN humanitarian system and experience in emergency preparedness and response are desirable.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in relevant fields such as Economics, Social Sciences, Disaster Risk Management, Public Policy, or related disciplines is required for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of food security, nutrition, and humanitarian assistance, as well as for effectively engaging with government and institutional stakeholders.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of postgraduate experience in programme design, implementation, and coordination, particularly in areas related to government capacity strengthening and institutional development. Candidates should have a proven track record of leadership in implementing programmes and should be adept at fostering partnerships and working collaboratively with diverse teams. Experience within the UN humanitarian system, particularly in emergency preparedness and response, is also highly valued.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Armenian is mandatory for this position, with proficiency at level C. Additional languages are considered desirable and may enhance a candidate's profile, particularly in a multicultural working environment.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and based in Yerevan, Armenia. The contract duration and specific terms of employment will be outlined in the Terms and Conditions section of the vacancy announcement. WFP is committed to providing an inclusive work environment and supports individuals with disabilities by offering reasonable accommodations throughout the recruitment process. The organization does not charge any fees in connection with the application or recruitment process, and all applications must be submitted through the online recruiting system.