Programme Associate - Emergency Preparedness and Response

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries, employing thousands of staff members who work tirelessly to ensure effective humanitarian assistance reaches millions of people globally. WFP is committed to diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The organization has received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020, recognizing its efforts in combating hunger and promoting peace.

Job Overview:
The Programme Associate for Emergency Preparedness and Response will play a crucial role in supporting the planning, implementation, coordination, monitoring, and reporting of emergency preparedness and response activities within the World Food Programme in Laos. This position requires close collaboration with government counterparts, local authorities, UN agencies, NGOs, and development partners to enhance national disaster preparedness and response readiness. The incumbent will contribute to cash-based transfer programs and capacity-building efforts aimed at improving assistance delivery and resilience for communities affected by disasters. The role is vital in ensuring that WFP's emergency preparedness and response protocols are adhered to, and that operational readiness for crisis response is maintained. The Programme Associate will also be involved in analytical reporting and data analysis to inform decision-making and program adjustments.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Associate will report directly to the Programme Policy Officer and will be responsible for providing technical and administrative support for the implementation of emergency preparedness and response activities. Key responsibilities include ensuring timely and quality implementation of food assistance and cash-based transfers, preparing analytical reports and program updates, and ensuring compliance with corporate quality standards. The incumbent will manage beneficiary registration and data consolidation, liaise with internal WFP teams and external partners, and support capacity strengthening efforts for WFP staff and government counterparts. Additionally, the Programme Associate will coordinate logistical support for workshops, meetings, and training sessions related to program delivery, ensuring effective communication and collaboration among all stakeholders involved in disaster management.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in Emergency Preparedness and Response, Disaster Management, Social Sciences, or other relevant fields related to international development assistance. A minimum of six years of progressively responsible work experience in UN agencies, NGOs, or civil society organizations focusing on rural development, disaster-risk management, or related fields is required. Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, are essential, along with strong analytical, facilitation, and negotiation skills. The ability to work effectively in a team and establish productive working relationships with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds is crucial. Proficiency in computer applications such as MS Office and graphic design programs is preferred.

Educational Background:
A university degree in a relevant field such as Emergency Preparedness and Response, Disaster Management, or Social Sciences is required. Candidates with additional training or courses related to international development assistance will be considered favorably. The educational background should provide a solid foundation for understanding the complexities of disaster management and humanitarian response.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of six years of progressively responsible experience in relevant fields, including work with UN agencies, NGOs, or civil society organizations. Experience in rural development, disaster-risk management, or related development fields is essential. Candidates should demonstrate a track record of contributing to the implementation of programs related to security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, nutrition, or disaster risk management.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written communication in English and Lao is mandatory. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a Service Contract (SC6) with a duration of 12 months and is non-renewable. The role is based in Vientiane, Laos PDR, and involves working closely with various stakeholders, including government counterparts and development partners. The World Food Programme offers an attractive compensation package and is committed to providing a diverse and inclusive working environment. The organization emphasizes the importance of reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.