Programme Policy Officer - Direct Transfers

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 extreme weather. 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's core values include Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion, and it strives to create a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the communities it serves. WFP has been recognized for its efforts, notably being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020 for its work in combating hunger and promoting peace.

Job Overview:
The Programme Policy Officer - Direct Transfers position is crucial for supporting WFP's policy and program activities that effectively address food assistance needs. The role involves contributing to the development of various projects and plans, ensuring they align with WFP's broader program policies and guidance. The officer will provide project management support for significant programs, ensuring compliance with WFP standards and procedures. This position requires the development and coordination of data gathering and monitoring systems, ensuring high-quality standards are maintained. The officer will also research and analyze policy and operational issues to inform the development of effective policies and programs. The role includes preparing accurate and timely reports to facilitate informed decision-making and effective collaboration with internal and external stakeholders. The officer will support the capacity building of WFP staff and partners, guiding and supervising junior staff as needed.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The key accountabilities for this position include:

• Contributing to the development of a variety of projects, plans, and processes, ensuring alignment with WFP's program policies.
• Providing project management support for specific programs and projects of considerable size and complexity.
• Developing and coordinating data gathering and monitoring systems to maintain rigorous quality standards.
• Researching and analyzing policy and operational issues to inform the development of policies and programs.
• Preparing accurate and timely reports on programs and activities for informed decision-making.
• Liaising with internal and external counterparts to ensure effective collaboration and monitor ongoing projects.
• Supporting the identification and management of partnerships to improve food assistance packages.
• Assisting in the capacity building of WFP staff, partners, and national governments.
• Guiding and supervising junior staff and acting as a point of referral for analysis and queries. 1
• Performing other duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in International Affairs, Economics, Nutrition/Health, Agriculture, Environmental Science, Social Sciences, or a related field relevant to international development assistance. Alternatively, a first university degree with additional years of related work experience and/or training may be acceptable. Candidates should have deepened technical knowledge through exposure to technical teams, taken leadership roles in implementing programs, and provided input into policy discussions and decisions.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in relevant fields such as International Affairs, Economics, Nutrition/Health, Agriculture, Environmental Science, or Social Sciences. A first university degree may be acceptable if accompanied by additional relevant work experience and training.

Experience:
Candidates should have a demonstrated level of experience in the field of international development assistance, particularly in roles that involve project management, policy development, and program implementation. Experience in leading teams and contributing to policy discussions is highly desirable. The role requires a solid understanding of food assistance programs and the ability to analyze complex operational issues.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and candidates should also be proficient in the local language of the duty station if it differs from English. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term contract for a duration of 12 months, based in Banjul, Gambia. The role is open only to Gambian nationals, and qualified female candidates are encouraged to apply. Applications must be submitted online in English, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessment. WFP emphasizes a rigorous and transparent selection process, ensuring that all candidates are evaluated based on their qualifications and merit. The organization is committed to providing an inclusive work environment and offers reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.