Assistant Executive Director, Workplace and Management

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, established to save lives in emergencies and to use food assistance as a means to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of extreme weather. WFP operates globally, with a mission to ensure that effective humanitarian assistance reaches millions of people in need. The organization is committed to diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. WFP has a diverse workforce and is recognized for its inclusive work environment, which is reflected in its values of Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion. WFP was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020, highlighting its significant contributions to humanitarian efforts worldwide. The organization invests in the personal and professional development of its employees through various training and mentorship programs, and it operates in numerous countries around the globe, making it a truly international organization with a wide-reaching impact.

Job Overview:
The Assistant director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Executive Director, Workplace and Management, will serve as a core member of WFP’s Senior Leadership Team, providing leadership in human resources and staff wellbeing, as well as overseeing WFP’s enabling functions, including management services, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and technology. This role is critical in ensuring a harmonious and results-driven work environment that aligns with WFP’s mission and goals. The incumbent will be responsible for driving organizational effectiveness, operational resilience, and duty of care in a complex global environment. The AED will lead efforts to simplify processes, empower managers and staff, and improve transparency while ensuring responsible management of WFP’s resources. This position requires a leader of high integrity and credibility who can build trust across the organization and engage effectively with Member States, UN partners, and governing bodies. The AED will also play a key role in advancing WFP’s contribution to UN reform, ensuring that management practices enable agile and accountable delivery of humanitarian assistance.

Duties and Responsibilities:
As a member of WFP's Senior Leadership Team, the AED will work closely with the Executive Director, Deputy Executive Director, COO, and other senior leaders to shape and implement policies and strategies that advance WFP's mission. The AED will provide strategic direction and guidance across the Workplace and Management Department, ensuring that enabling services are coherent and responsive to organizational needs. Responsibilities include championing operational efficiency and structural reform, promoting a culture of accountability and transparency, overseeing staff wellbeing initiatives, engaging in high-level discussions with UN and government representatives, and fostering innovation and collaboration across the organization. The AED will also undertake additional responsibilities as required to support WFP’s mission and the Senior Leadership Team.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 20 years of progressively responsible experience in senior management or administration, with a strong track record of leadership and strategic management at the international level, preferably in humanitarian or development sectors. Proven experience in managing complex roles in Administration, Security, Human Resources, or Facilities is essential. Candidates should demonstrate strong leadership and management skills, excellent communication and interpersonal abilities, and a commitment to fostering a culture of respect and inclusion. Experience in managing significant budgets and multi-disciplinary teams is also required, along with high emotional intelligence and integrity.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in Organizational Development, Business Administration, Leadership, Public Administration, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background is essential to equip the candidate with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively lead and manage WFP’s Workplace and Management functions.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 20 years of progressively responsible experience in senior management or administration. Candidates should have a strong background in leadership roles, particularly in complex environments related to humanitarian or development sectors. Experience in managing diverse teams and significant budgets is crucial, as well as a proven ability to navigate challenging situations with empathy and tact.

Languages:
Fluency in English (level C) is mandatory. A working knowledge of a second official UN language, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, Spanish, or Portuguese, is highly desirable. Proficiency in these languages will enhance communication and collaboration within the diverse international context of WFP.

Additional Notes:
The selected candidate will be employed on a fixed-term contract at the Assistant Secretary General level, with a probationary period of one year. WFP offers an attractive compensation and benefits package, including a basic salary, post adjustment, relocation entitlement, travel and shipment allowances, 30 days of annual leave, and expatriate entitlements such as home leave and education grants for dependent children. The organization is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. All applications must be submitted through the WFP Careers website, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stage of the recruitment process. WFP maintains a commitment to an inclusive work environment free from discrimination and harassment.