National Operations Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations 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. 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 develop policies, programs, and projects aimed at improving agricultural productivity, enhancing food security, and promoting sustainable management of natural resources. FAO's work is guided by the principles of sustainability, inclusivity, and resilience, focusing on three priority areas: increasing production and productivity sustainably, fostering agriculture-based economic growth, and enhancing the resilience of livelihoods to threats and crises.

Job Overview:
The National Operations Specialist will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of the SURAGGWA project, which aims to enhance the resilience of communities in Nigeria. This position requires a deep understanding of local institutions, administrative processes, and stakeholder dynamics to facilitate effective collaboration with government counterparts, communities, and implementing partners. The incumbent will be responsible for ensuring compliance with FAO operational procedures and delivering project outputs on time. The role involves operational and coordination support, including planning, execution, and monitoring of project activities. The National Operations Specialist will also contribute to the development of technical, economic, and policy studies, and assist in the formulation and preparation of program and project proposals, ensuring that all operational activities align with the project document and work plan.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Operations Specialist will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including: liaising with government authorities and local, national, and international institutions to promote FAO's activities; coordinating the collection and maintenance of data on food, crops, livestock, forestry, and fisheries; participating in the development of country-level frameworks such as the Country Programming Framework (CPF) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF); monitoring project activities to ensure adherence to budget and UN standards; assisting in the day-to-day operational activities of the SURAGGWA project; preparing reports and financial documents; and providing technical assistance during country missions. The incumbent will also be responsible for training and supervising junior staff, ensuring adherence to procedures, and maintaining the accuracy of work provided.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in finance, economics, accounting, or a related field. They should have a minimum of three years of relevant experience in agricultural development and/or project implementation within FAO's areas of activity. A working knowledge of English and Hausa is required, and candidates must be nationals of Nigeria. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate competencies in results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as finance, economics, or accounting. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of agricultural development and project management within the context of FAO's mission and objectives.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least three years of relevant experience in agricultural development and project implementation. Experience in multiple locations or areas of work, particularly in field positions, is highly desirable. The candidate should also have a demonstrated understanding of technical programs, operational guidelines, and project management procedures, preferably those adopted by the United Nations or FAO.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English and Hausa is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
The FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or processing. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates must have their higher educational qualifications recognized by the World Higher Education Database (WHED). The appointment will be subject to medical fitness certification, accreditation, residency or visa requirements, and security clearances. This position is likely to be full-time, and candidates should be prepared for potential international recruitment.