Programme Associate (Cooperating Partners)

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 are committed to the mission of alleviating hunger and improving nutrition. WFP is recognized for its efforts in providing food assistance and is a 2020 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, reflecting its significant contributions to humanitarian efforts globally. The organization emphasizes diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply for positions within its ranks.

Job Overview:
The Programme Associate (Cooperating Partners) position at WFP is crucial for supporting the Cooperating Partners Management (CPM) function in alignment with corporate guidelines and the Country Strategic Plan (CSP) requirements. This role involves providing technical support and specialized project management assistance to ensure that various activities are executed within established targets, adhering to WFP’s policies and procedures. The Programme Associate will prepare reports and conduct data analysis related to food assistance needs, resource utilization, and program performance, ensuring that all deliverables meet corporate standards. The position also requires effective collaboration with internal counterparts and external partners, including NGOs and government institutions, to facilitate accurate security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security analyses and the efficient delivery of food assistance. Additionally, the Programme Associate will play a key role in capacity building for WFP staff and partners, ensuring that operational queries are resolved effectively and that emergency preparedness practices are followed to enable rapid response in crisis situations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme Associate (Cooperating Partners) include:

• Providing technical support and assisting in the development and implementation of CPM activities and processes.
• Offering specialized project management support to ensure compliance with WFP’s policies.
• Preparing reports and conducting data analysis related to food assistance and program performance.
• Ensuring accurate and timely recording of data within the technical area of work.
• Liaising with internal counterparts to support collaboration and monitoring of project activities.
• Coordinating with local partners and agencies for food security analyses and assistance delivery.
• Supporting capacity building for WFP staff and cooperating partners.
• Acting as a point of contact for operational queries.
• Overseeing the work of support staff and providing guidance. 1
• Following emergency preparedness practices to ensure quick response capabilities. 1
• Performing any other tasks required within the job level of expertise. Additional responsibilities include conducting risk-informed capacity assessments, ensuring compliance with documentation standards, supporting digitalization of partner management, and facilitating knowledge sharing across units.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a post-secondary certificate in law, business administration, finance, accounting, international development, audit, or a related field. A first-level university degree in these areas is an advantage. Additionally, candidates should have a strong understanding of WFP partnership procedures, excellent analytical and organizational skills, and the ability to manage digital tools and knowledge management systems. Strong coordination, communication, and problem-solving skills are essential, along with the ability to deliver training and capacity building.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes completion of secondary school education, with a post-secondary certificate in relevant fields such as law, business administration, finance, accounting, international development, or audit. A first-level university degree in these areas or a professional qualification in audit or risk management is considered advantageous. It is also mandatory for all educational documents to be verified by the Higher Education Commission (HEC).

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 6 years of progressively responsible experience in areas such as risk management, partnerships, compliance, internal control systems, or program management. Experience with the digitalization of program or partnership processes is highly desirable. Demonstrated experience in due diligence, oversight, documentation review, or performance monitoring is also required. Experience in the humanitarian or development sector in Pakistan is a must, as it provides essential context for the role.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written communication in English and Urdu is mandatory for this position. 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 General Service contract for a duration of 12 months, specifically targeting Pakistan Nationals. WFP offers a competitive benefits package, including salary, pension, leave, and medical insurance. The organization is committed to diversity and encourages qualified women to apply. All applications must be submitted through WFP's online recruiting system, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. The role also emphasizes the importance of reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.