Programme and Operations Support Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has a mission 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 worldwide, working collaboratively with governments, civil society, and the private sector to promote sustainable agricultural practices and improve nutrition.

Job Overview:
The Programme and Operations Support Specialist will play a crucial role in the FAO's One Health Programme in Bangladesh, which focuses on preventing and responding to animal health threats and zoonoses. This position is integral to ensuring that projects are delivered effectively and efficiently throughout their life cycle. The specialist will be responsible for providing operational and programmatic support, which includes planning, monitoring, and reporting on various projects. The role requires a strong understanding of project management principles and the ability to coordinate with multiple stakeholders to ensure compliance with FAO procedures and reporting requirements. The specialist will also manage program data systems to track progress and support evidence-based decision-making, which is vital for achieving project results.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme and Operations Support Specialist include supporting the International Operations Specialist in budget preparation and project closure, reviewing activity requests from project teams, collaborating with the One Health management team for project execution, and regularly updating travel, HR, and procurement plans. The specialist will coordinate with technical teams to prepare and review workplans, facilitate collaboration between procurement units and technical teams, and support the development and monitoring of contracts with service providers. Additionally, the role involves ensuring effective communication with government counterparts and UN agencies, managing the preparation of annual workplans and budgets, reviewing reporting requirements, and supporting knowledge management initiatives. The specialist will also be responsible for preparing project-specific reports and ensuring compliance with monitoring and evaluation frameworks.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in business administration, economics, public management, or a related field relevant to FAO's mandate. They should have at least seven years of professional experience in field programme operations and management. A working knowledge of English at level C is required, and candidates must be nationals of Bangladesh. The FAO core competencies expected include a strong results focus, teamwork, effective communication, building relationships, and knowledge sharing. Additionally, candidates should have technical skills in project management, operations, and results-based reporting, with the ability to manage multiple workflows independently.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as business administration, economics, or public management. It is essential that the degree is obtained from an institution accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED). This ensures that the educational qualifications meet the standards set by the FAO and are recognized internationally.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of related professional experience in field programme operations and management. Candidates should have a proven track record of supporting complex development and emergency programmes, demonstrating the ability to manage multiple workflows and coordinate effectively with various teams. Experience in results-based reporting and compliance with programme requirements is also essential, as is the ability to perform effectively under minimal supervision.

Languages:
The mandatory language requirement for this position is a working knowledge of English at level C. This proficiency is necessary for effective communication and reporting within the organization. While not mandatory, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the regions in which FAO operates.

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 should be aware that the appointment will be subject to certification of medical fitness, accreditation, residency or visa requirements, and security clearances. For further employment opportunities, candidates can visit the FAO employment website.