Senior VPP Consultant

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 states, FAO operates in over 130 countries worldwide, including South Africa. The organization aims to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and reduce hunger and malnutrition through sustainable agricultural practices and policies. FAO's mission is to support the transformation to more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems, contributing to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The FAO Country Office in South Africa collaborates with various governmental and non-governmental organizations to implement projects that enhance health systems and agricultural practices.

Job Overview:
The Senior VPP Consultant will play a crucial role in the planning, implementation, and monitoring of the Animal Health Technician (AHT) component of the Pandemic Fund Project, titled 'Building a Resilient Future: Strengthening Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness, and Response in South Africa through a One Health Approach.' This position requires high-level strategic expertise to ensure that the project meets its objectives of enhancing pandemic preparedness and improving health systems. The consultant will work closely with the AHT project coordinator and the wider Pandemic Fund Project team to design activities, implement project strategies, and facilitate knowledge sharing. The role also involves engaging with stakeholders, developing training programs, and providing technical guidance to ensure the successful establishment of primary animal healthcare clinics.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior VPP Consultant will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including: providing expert technical input on project design and implementation; ensuring legal and regulatory compliance; assessing facility locations and site suitability; determining infrastructure, equipment, and layout requirements; establishing business models and community engagement strategies; leading funding opportunities and collaborations; developing targeted coaching and training programs for AHTs; participating in workshops and training initiatives; providing technical guidance on procuring starter kits; offering ongoing support and monitoring for AHT businesses; engaging with the South African Veterinary Council and other stakeholders; and contributing to project monitoring and evaluation efforts. The consultant will also perform any other tasks as mutually agreed upon with the project team.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in veterinary studies from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO. Those with a bachelor's degree must have two additional years of relevant professional experience. A minimum of five years of working experience in the animal health discipline is required. Additionally, candidates must demonstrate a working knowledge (level C) of English and possess strong communication and report writing skills. Familiarity with key stakeholders in the animal health field and proficiency in project management software are also essential qualifications.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in veterinary studies. Candidates with a bachelor's degree in veterinary studies must have at least two additional years of relevant professional experience to qualify for the role. This educational requirement ensures that the consultant has a solid foundation in veterinary science and is equipped to handle the complexities of the project.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of working experience in the animal health discipline. This experience should encompass a range of relevant activities, including project management, stakeholder engagement, and technical support in the veterinary field. Candidates should demonstrate a proven track record of successfully implementing projects and collaborating with various stakeholders in the animal health sector.

Languages:
A working knowledge (level C) of English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the regions where the project is being implemented. Strong communication skills in English are essential for effective collaboration and reporting within the international context of the FAO.

Additional Notes:
This position is remote, allowing for flexibility in work arrangements. The consultant will be engaged on a contractual basis, with the duration of the contract aligned with the project timeline from 2025 to 202

• The role is expected to be full-time, and candidates may be assessed against FAO's core competencies, including results focus, teamwork, communication, and knowledge sharing. Compensation and benefits will be discussed during the hiring process, and the organization is open to recruiting internationally.