Junior Consultant - Programme Policy

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 globally. WFP's mission is centered around the belief that food is a basic human right and that no one should go hungry. The organization is committed to diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. WFP has received numerous accolades for its work, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020, highlighting its commitment to humanitarian efforts and global security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security.

Job Overview:
The Junior Consultant - Programme Policy position is designed to support the MENAEE Regional Director's Office in enhancing the strategic positioning and representative functions of the Regional Director. This role involves engaging with regional stakeholders through comprehensive policy analysis, stakeholder mapping, and the development of strategic briefings. The consultant will play a crucial role in advancing the Regional Director's humanitarian diplomacy efforts and fostering engagement with various regional institutions, UN entities, international financial institutions, and other influential stakeholders. The position requires a proactive approach to providing analysis, coordination, and knowledge management support that strengthens WFP's positioning and promotes positive operational outcomes for Country Offices across the region. The consultant will be expected to monitor and analyze regional policy developments, humanitarian trends, and UN reform processes, producing concise analytical products that aid senior management decision-making. This role is pivotal in ensuring that WFP's strategic objectives are met and that the organization maintains a strong presence in regional discussions and initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Junior Consultant will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: conducting stakeholder mapping and political economy analysis of influential regional actors, institutions, and initiatives; monitoring and analyzing regional policy developments and humanitarian trends; preparing high-level briefing materials, talking points, and engagement packages for the Regional Director; coordinating inputs from Country Offices and Global Headquarters to ensure coherent messaging; supporting the development and review of regional engagement strategies; maintaining analytical products and knowledge repositories; planning and coordinating regional policy dialogues and consultations; tracking emerging opportunities for humanitarian diplomacy and advocacy; contributing to corporate reporting and strategic planning; and performing any other duties as required to support Country Offices during emergencies. This comprehensive set of responsibilities ensures that the consultant plays a vital role in enhancing WFP's strategic positioning and visibility in the region.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in International Affairs, Economics, Nutrition/Health, Agriculture, Environmental Science, Social Sciences, or a related field relevant to international development assistance. Alternatively, a first university degree may be considered. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate fluency in English (level C) and have a minimum of one year of experience in policy research and analysis, particularly in international affairs, foreign policy, humanitarian, or development issues. Experience in drafting high-quality briefing materials and engaging with senior leadership in a fast-paced environment is essential. Candidates should also have experience in monitoring political and policy developments and translating complex information into actionable recommendations for senior audiences.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in fields such as International Affairs, Economics, Nutrition/Health, Agriculture, Environmental Science, Social Sciences, or other relevant areas related to international development assistance. A first university degree may also be acceptable, depending on the candidate's overall qualifications and experience. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of humanitarian and development issues that WFP addresses.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of one year of relevant experience in policy research and analysis, particularly focusing on international affairs, foreign policy, humanitarian, or development issues. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in drafting high-quality briefing materials, talking points, and policy analysis for senior-level engagements. Experience in coordinating across multiple teams and stakeholders in a dynamic, policy-focused environment is also essential. Furthermore, candidates should have a proven track record of engaging with government counterparts, international organizations, and civil society, as well as monitoring emerging political and policy developments.

Languages:
Fluency in English (level C) is mandatory for this position. While English is the primary language required, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly those relevant to the regions in which WFP operates. Proficiency in other languages can enhance communication and engagement with diverse stakeholders and may be beneficial in fulfilling the responsibilities of the role.

Additional Notes:
The position is a Junior Consultancy contract with a duration of 11 months. It is essential to note that WFP is committed to providing an inclusive work environment and supports individuals with disabilities by offering reasonable accommodations throughout the recruitment process. The organization emphasizes that no fees are charged during the application process, and all applications must be submitted through WFP's online recruiting system. Candidates are encouraged to ensure their profiles are complete and accurate, including employment history, academic qualifications, and language skills. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stages of the recruitment process.