Senior Field Programme Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, which was established in 194

• The FAO's mission is to eliminate hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition; make agriculture, forestry, and fisheries more productive and sustainable; reduce rural poverty; and enable inclusive and efficient agricultural and food systems. The organization operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of approximately 12,000 employees. The Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia (REU) plays a crucial role in leading FAO's response to regional priorities for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, agriculture, and rural development, ensuring a multidisciplinary approach to programs and overseeing the network of Country Offices and Subregional Offices.

Job Overview:
The Senior Field Programme Officer position is pivotal in leading results-based field programme management, implementation, and coordination throughout the Europe and Central Asia region. The officer will support regional resource mobilization efforts and engage with the private sector and civil society. The role involves providing operational support and capacity building to budget holders and project formulators, ensuring effective project cycle management, and overseeing the management of Technical Cooperation Programme (TCP) resources. The officer will report to the Deputy Regional Representative for Europe and Central Asia and will be responsible for the planning, development, and implementation of work programs and projects aligned with FAO's strategic objectives. This position requires a strong focus on leadership and technical expertise to ensure that the organization's programs effectively address regional priorities and contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Field Programme Officer will lead the development, implementation, and evaluation of assigned programs and projects. This includes directing the review of relevant documents and reports, identifying priorities, problems, and issues to be addressed, and proposing corrective actions. The officer will coordinate programs and assess issues and trends for program implementation, prepare various written outputs such as background papers and reports, and provide substantive support to meetings and conferences. Additionally, the officer will manage outreach activities, design and conduct training workshops, lead field missions, and represent the organization at international meetings. Specific functions include supervising the Regional Field Programme Team, managing regional and country projects, advising countries on project management, monitoring the implementation of field programs, coordinating resource mobilization activities, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams on regional priority programs.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in economics, business administration, management, or related fields relevant to the FAO mandate. A minimum of ten years of relevant experience in results-based project/program planning, implementation, and monitoring systems/appraisal is required. Candidates should have a working knowledge (proficiency - level C) of English and intermediate knowledge (intermediate proficiency - level B) of another official FAO language such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish. Competencies required for this position include a strong results focus, leadership skills, effective communication, and the ability to partner and advocate for the organization's goals.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree, specifically a Master’s degree or equivalent, in fields such as economics, business administration, management, or other areas that align with the FAO's mandate. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of food security, agriculture, and rural development, as well as for effectively managing projects and programs within the organization.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of ten years of relevant experience in project and program management, particularly in results-based planning, implementation, and monitoring systems. Experience in managing small, medium, or large-scale projects at both country and regional levels is essential. Additionally, candidates should have experience working in various locations or areas of work, particularly in field positions, and should demonstrate a strong understanding of administrative, operational, and financial procedures related to project management.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with a requirement for candidates to have a working knowledge (level C) of the language. Additionally, candidates should possess intermediate knowledge (level B) of another official FAO language, which may include Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish. This multilingual capability is important for effective communication and collaboration within the organization and with international stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Budapest, Hungary, and is part of the Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia. The role is full-time and involves significant responsibilities in managing and coordinating field programs across the region. Candidates should be prepared for potential travel within the region as part of their duties. The FAO offers a competitive compensation package, including benefits related to health, retirement, and professional development opportunities.