Project Coordinator/MSD/Programme Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, established in 1961, 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. 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's mission is to end hunger and improve nutrition and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, and it is committed to the principles of diversity and equal employment opportunity, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The organization has been active in Bhutan since 1974, focusing on supporting government efforts to deliver equitable and inclusive economic growth and human capital development through various programs and partnerships.

Job Overview:
The Project Coordinator/MSD/Programme Officer will play a crucial role in the implementation of a project funded by KOICA aimed at constructing school kitchens and storage facilities, improving school nutrition, and linking local Farmer Based Organizations (FBOs) to schools for the supply of agricultural produce. This position requires a proactive individual who can manage project activities effectively, ensuring alignment with WFP’s strategic goals and the needs of the local communities. The officer will be responsible for designing implementation plans, overseeing construction projects, and facilitating capacity-building initiatives for school staff and local farmers. The role also involves monitoring and evaluating project outcomes, ensuring compliance with WFP standards, and fostering partnerships with various stakeholders, including government entities and international organizations. The successful candidate will contribute to the overall mission of WFP by enhancing food security and nutrition among school children in Bhutan.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Coordinator will have a wide range of responsibilities, including:

• Supporting the overall implementation of the KOICA-funded project, ensuring all activities related to the construction of school kitchens and stores are executed effectively.
• Leading the coordination and planning of site assessments for school kitchen and storage facilities, ensuring feasibility and compliance with standards.
• Overseeing the structural design and engineering specifications, managing procurement workflows, and ensuring transparency in bidding processes.
• Supervising construction phases, verifying progress, and ensuring compliance with safety standards and local regulations.
• Facilitating the handover of completed facilities to school authorities and coordinating with implementing partners.
• Designing capacity-building modules for school cooks and management, focusing on food safety and nutrition.
• Developing training programs for government extension officers and FBOs to enhance agricultural production and supply chain management.
• Monitoring project activities to ensure timely delivery of results and compliance with work plans and budgets.
• Establishing quality standards for project implementation and contributing to the development of concept notes and funding proposals. 1
• Coordinating with Monitoring and Evaluation consultants to ensure data collection and reporting meet WFP and KOICA requirements. 1
• Drafting high-quality project reports and managing communications with KOICA and other stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master’s degree in International Affairs, Development Economics, Social Sciences, or a related field. Alternatively, a first university degree with additional relevant work experience and training may be considered. The ideal candidate should have a minimum of five years of professional experience in international development or humanitarian work, with a preference for those who have previously managed projects related to school feeding and nutrition. Strong skills in results-based program development, technical report writing, and partnership building are essential. The candidate should also demonstrate excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment.

Educational Background:
A master’s degree in International Affairs, Development Economics, Social Sciences, or Performance Management is required. Candidates with a first university degree and additional relevant work experience may also be considered. Continuous professional development through training and courses related to project management and humanitarian assistance is highly valued.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant professional experience, particularly in international development or humanitarian contexts. Previous experience as a project manager or specialist, especially in school feeding initiatives, is preferred. Familiarity with government operations, UN agencies, and development partners will be advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written English is mandatory. Additionally, fluency in spoken and written Korean is required, as the role involves communication with KOICA and the Korean government.

Additional Notes:
This position is a Limited Fixed Term contract for one year, with the possibility of renewal based on project funding. The role is based in Thimphu, Bhutan, and involves full-time engagement. WFP offers an attractive compensation package and is committed to providing a diverse and inclusive work environment. The organization supports individuals with disabilities by providing reasonable accommodations throughout the recruitment process. All applications must be submitted through the WFP online recruiting system, and selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks.