Programme Officer (Animal Health)

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations established to lead international efforts to defeat hunger. With 194 Member Nations, FAO works in over 130 countries worldwide, including Malawi, where it has been operational since 198

• The organization aims to support the government in identifying, planning, and implementing priority activities that align with national development aspirations, both short- and long-term. FAO's assistance is guided by the Country Programming Framework (CPF), which focuses on three interrelated priority areas: agriculture and food system transformation, sustainable natural resources and environmental management, and improved resilience and emergency preparedness. The organization collaborates with various partners, including government departments and international organizations, to enhance security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and agricultural sustainability.

Job Overview:
The Programme Officer (Animal Health) plays a crucial role in coordinating the formulation and implementation of livestock and animal health initiatives, particularly focusing on the FAO’s component of the Pandemic Fund project in Malawi. This position involves providing technical support for the implementation of animal health and livestock development portfolios, as well as supporting resource mobilization efforts. The incumbent will work closely with various stakeholders, including government counterparts and international partners, to ensure effective project implementation and compliance with organizational standards. The role is vital in strengthening national systems to prevent, detect, and respond to epidemic and pandemic threats through improved surveillance, laboratory systems, and capacity development. The Programme Officer will also contribute to the broader objectives of FAO Malawi in enhancing animal health and production, resilience, and One Health initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Officer (Animal Health) will lead and supervise the implementation of animal health and livestock development projects, including the FAO's component of the Pandemic Fund project in Malawi. Key responsibilities include providing guidance and support to project personnel and partners, developing and overseeing project workplans, coordinating with government counterparts and delivery partners, monitoring project budgets and resources, and ensuring compliance with organizational and donor requirements. The incumbent will also support the design and delivery of training and capacity development activities, contribute to One Health initiatives, prepare technical and operational reports, and engage in stakeholder communication and coordination activities. Additionally, the Programme Officer will organize and participate in missions, workshops, and evaluation activities related to program implementation, and provide technical advice on transboundary animal diseases, zoonoses, and antimicrobial resistance.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in Veterinary Medicine or related fields. A minimum of five years of relevant experience in managing and implementing animal disease control programs is required, preferably in developing countries. The candidate should have experience leading teams and partnerships, as well as a working knowledge of English (proficiency - level C) and intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish - intermediate proficiency - level B).

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree, specifically a Master's degree or equivalent, in Veterinary Medicine or a related field. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of animal health and livestock development, as well as for effectively managing and implementing relevant programs.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in managing and implementing animal disease control programs. This experience should ideally be in developing countries and include leading teams and partnerships. Candidates with work experience in multiple locations or areas, particularly in field positions, will be viewed favorably. Additionally, experience in technical cooperation activities, policy advice, and analysis related to nutrition" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food and nutrition security, agriculture, and rural development is highly desirable.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with a requirement for level C proficiency. Additionally, candidates should have intermediate knowledge (level B) of another FAO official language, which could include Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish. This multilingual capability is important for effective communication and collaboration within the international context of FAO's work.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Lilongwe, Malawi, and is part of a project expected to be implemented from August 2026 to 202

• The role is full-time and involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including government entities and international organizations. Candidates will be assessed against the minimum requirements and competencies outlined in the job description, and the position may involve travel for missions and workshops related to program implementation.