Programme Policy Officer (Climate Resilience Specialist)

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 of people globally. WFP is committed to diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The organization has received numerous accolades, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020, recognizing its efforts in combating hunger and promoting security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security.

Job Overview:
The Programme Policy Officer (Climate Resilience Specialist) position is crucial for advancing WFP Malawi's climate adaptation portfolio. This role involves providing technical leadership and oversight for projects funded through climate finance mechanisms. The officer will ensure that interventions are evidence-based, compliant with regulations, and implemented in a timely manner. The position requires collaboration with various teams within WFP, including RAM/M&E, Supply Chain, Finance, and Partnerships, to ensure that gender equality, protection, and environmental safeguards are integrated into all climate resilience initiatives. The officer will also engage with government entities and stakeholders to align WFP's efforts with national frameworks and policies, particularly those related to climate change adaptation and disaster risk management. The overarching goal is to protect and strengthen food systems, livelihoods, and nutrition outcomes for vulnerable populations in Malawi, particularly in the face of increasing climate-related challenges.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme Policy Officer (Climate Resilience Specialist) include:

• Providing strategic leadership on climate adaptation and mitigation, ensuring alignment with WFP's Strategic Plan and national policies.
• Leading annual and multi-year work planning, budgeting, risk management, and results tracking for climate resilience projects.
• Overseeing the implementation of climate adaptation projects, guiding field teams on climate-smart interventions.
• Ensuring compliance with donor policies and standards, WFP governance, and environmental and social safeguards.
• Serving as a technical focal point with government agencies, UN agencies, NGOs, and the private sector to support policy dialogue and coordination.
• Leading the development and implementation of monitoring and evaluation frameworks for climate projects.
• Mainstreaming gender, protection, and disability inclusion in project design and delivery.
• Supporting resource mobilization efforts for climate resilience initiatives.
• Collaborating with Supply Chain and Finance to plan climate-related procurement and track budget utilization. 1
• Performing other related duties as required, including regular travel to project sites.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Programme Policy Officer (Climate Resilience Specialist) position include:

• Advanced university degree in Climate Science, Environmental Management, Natural Resources, Agriculture, Disaster Risk Management, or a related field. Alternatively, a first university degree with additional years of relevant work experience may be considered.
• At least five years of progressively responsible experience in climate adaptation and resilience programming.
• Technical expertise in areas such as climate services, anticipatory action, community-based adaptation, and ecosystem management.
• Proven track record in government coordination, partner management, and capacity building.
• Strong analytical, writing, and reporting skills, with familiarity with WFP corporate systems being an asset.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as Climate Science, Environmental Management, Natural Resources, Agriculture, or Disaster Risk Management. Alternatively, a first university degree combined with additional relevant work experience may be acceptable. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of climate adaptation and resilience programming.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in climate adaptation and resilience programming. This experience should include managing climate projects, ensuring compliance with donor requirements, and engaging with stakeholders. Experience in leading the implementation of climate adaptation programs, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, is highly desirable. Additionally, candidates should have experience in coordinating with government entities and managing partnerships.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if relevant to the operational context of WFP in Malawi.

Additional Notes:
The position is a Service Contract (SC) with a duration of 12 months, renewable based on performance and organizational needs. The role is based in Lilongwe, Malawi, and requires regular travel to project sites and sub-offices. WFP offers an attractive compensation package and is committed to providing a diverse and inclusive work environment. The organization emphasizes the importance of reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.