Programme Assistant

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 and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020 for its work in combating hunger. The organization emphasizes diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply, and strives to create a healthy and inclusive work environment that reflects the communities it serves.

Job Overview:
The Programme Assistant position at WFP is crucial for supporting the implementation, coordination, oversight, reporting, and quality assurance of activities under the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) Stunting Prevention Project. The role involves working closely with various stakeholders, including government representatives, health authorities, and community health workers, to ensure effective service delivery through the Benazir Nashonuma Programme (BNP) Centres. The Programme Assistant will be responsible for performing specialized and standardized policy and programme-related processes to enhance programme performance, stakeholder coordination, accountability, and data quality. This position requires a proactive approach to field oversight, partner engagement, and operational support, contributing to the achievement of programme objectives and the overall mission of WFP.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Assistant will have a wide range of duties and responsibilities, including:

• Coordinating and maintaining effective liaison with divisional and district representatives of BISP, District Health Authorities, and other stakeholders to support BNP activities.
• Participating in coordination meetings and ensuring timely follow-up on actions and recommendations.
• Establishing working relationships with government counterparts and community-based structures.
• Supporting the implementation of programme activities at BNP Centres in accordance with operational procedures.
• Conducting regular oversight visits to assess service quality and compliance with programme standards.
• Reviewing programme records and documentation to verify adherence to requirements.
• Facilitating coordination between BNP Centres and health facilities to address implementation issues.
• Organizing capacity-building activities for project staff and stakeholders.
• Monitoring the distribution of Specialized Nutritious Food (SNF) and ensuring compliance with procedures. 1
• Conducting field visits to assess programme quality and compliance, and preparing reports on findings. 1
• Supporting beneficiary feedback mechanisms and promoting accountability across programme activities. 1
• Assisting in advocacy and communication activities for the BISP Stunting Prevention Project.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in relevant fields such as nutrition, public health, social protection, or community development. Experience in supporting nutrition interventions and working with government departments and NGOs is essential. Strong programme implementation and coordination skills, along with sound knowledge of maternal and child nutrition programming, are required. Candidates should also demonstrate strong analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills, as well as proficiency in Microsoft Office applications. Knowledge of the Benazir Nashonuma Programme and nutrition-sensitive social protection programmes is an advantage.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include completion of secondary school education (Grade 12) and a post-secondary certificate in Nutrition, Public Health, Social Sciences, Development Studies, or a related field. A first university degree in a relevant field is considered an advantage, enhancing the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience, with at least two to three years specifically in supporting nutrition interventions, stunting prevention programmes, or maternal and child health initiatives. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in programme implementation, field monitoring, reporting, and stakeholder coordination, showcasing their ability to effectively contribute to the objectives of the WFP.

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 communication with diverse stakeholders and beneficiaries.

Additional Notes:
The Programme Assistant role is a Service Contract position with a duration of 12 months, with the possibility of extension. The position is based in multiple locations including Lahore, Rawalpindi, Sargodha, and Bahawalpur, and is open to qualified women candidates. WFP offers a competitive benefits package that includes salary, medical insurance, annual leave, and parental leave. All educational documents must be verified by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) in Pakistan, and appointment is contingent upon submission of HEC-verified degrees. The organization emphasizes its commitment to diversity and inclusion, providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.