FAO Project Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations established to lead international efforts to defeat hunger and malnutrition. The organization contributes to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda through its Strategic Framework, which aims to support the transformation to more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems. FAO operates in numerous countries worldwide, assisting governments in developing policies, programs, and projects aimed at achieving security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and reducing hunger and malnutrition. The FAO country offices are headed by an FAO Representative and focus on various sectors including agriculture, fisheries, and forestry, while promoting sustainable use of environmental and natural resources. The current Country Programming Framework (CPF) for Zambia outlines five priority areas to enhance productivity, inclusivity, and sustainability in the agrifood sector.

Job Overview:
The FAO Project Coordinator will serve as the national project coordinator for the Sustainable Fish Value Chains for Landlocked Developing Countries (SVC4LLDCs) project, which is funded by the Republic of Korea and implemented in both Kyrgyzstan and Zambia. This position is crucial for linking FAO Headquarters with local project partners in Zambia. The Project Coordinator will be responsible for managing and providing technical support for value chain-related activities, ensuring that project objectives align with FAO's Strategic Framework. The role involves overseeing project management, value chain analysis, strategic leadership, and ensuring effective reporting and operational execution. The incumbent will work closely with various stakeholders, including government institutions, producer organizations, and development partners, to facilitate the successful implementation of project activities and achieve desired outcomes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Coordinator will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Technically supporting the implementation of the project workplan;
• Coordinating and supporting the planning, design, and execution of project activities;
• Reviewing and finalizing project reports and outputs;
• Identifying, recruiting, managing, and supervising project partners;
• Maintaining effective communication with project beneficiaries and partners;
• Monitoring and evaluating project activities;
• Preparing reports for the Project Management Unit (PMU) detailing results achieved and challenges faced;
• Developing and executing the annual country-level work plan and budget;
• Supporting value chain analysis and development activities; 1
• Leading the establishment of a multi-stakeholder platform; 1
• Developing partnerships with stakeholders to achieve project objectives; 1
• Collaborating with consultants on project tasks; 1
• Analyzing quarterly progress reports; 1
• Overseeing the communication strategy at the country level; 1
• Conducting regular monitoring and evaluation of the program; 1
• Performing other duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Fisheries and Aquaculture, Agricultural Economics, Agribusiness, Project Management, Natural Resource Management, or a related field. Additionally, a minimum of five years of progressively responsible professional experience in implementing and coordinating value chain development activities related to fisheries, aquaculture, agriculture, forestry, or natural resources is required. Candidates must also have a working knowledge of English and be nationals of Zambia or residents with a valid work permit.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in relevant fields such as Fisheries and Aquaculture, Agricultural Economics, Agribusiness, Project Management, or Natural Resource Management. It is essential that the degree is obtained from an institution accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of progressively responsible professional experience in the implementation and coordination of value chain development activities. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in managing donor-funded development projects, including work planning, budgeting, implementation, monitoring, and reporting. Experience in facilitating multi-stakeholder dialogue and partnership development is also essential.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of one or more local languages spoken in Zambia is considered an advantage, enhancing communication with local stakeholders and beneficiaries.

Additional Notes:
The FAO does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates must be medically fit for appointment and meet any residency or visa requirements. The position may involve full-time engagement, and the successful candidate will be expected to work independently while delivering high-quality outputs under tight deadlines. The FAO emphasizes the importance of knowledge sharing and continuous improvement, and candidates should demonstrate strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.