Programme Policy Officer (School Feeding Programme Capacity Building)

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 to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of extreme weather shocks. WFP operates globally, with a mission to eradicate hunger and improve nutrition, and it is recognized for its commitment to diversity and equal employment opportunities. WFP has a diverse workforce and operates in numerous countries, focusing on various humanitarian and development programs.

Job Overview:
The Programme Policy Officer will play a crucial role in supporting the operationalization of the MINFIN Concept and the School Feeding transition agenda. This position involves coordinating capacity strengthening interventions, providing technical support, managing partnerships, and ensuring effective monitoring and reporting. The officer will contribute to enhancing national ownership, institutional capacities, and sustainable financing mechanisms for school feeding systems. The role is vital in addressing the structural challenges to food and nutrition security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security in Tajikistan, where many people require assistance due to various socio-economic factors. The officer will work closely with government counterparts and stakeholders to implement initiatives that align with WFP policies and national priorities, ensuring that school feeding programs are effectively managed and sustainable.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement School Feeding projects and operational plans, ensuring alignment with WFP policies and national priorities.
• Provide project management and technical support for School Feeding initiatives, collaborating with government and partners to monitor activities against objectives.
• Maintain data collection and reporting systems for School Feeding activities, ensuring quality standards and operational issues are addressed.
• Conduct research and analysis on programmatic and policy issues related to School Feeding and capacity strengthening.
• Prepare timely reports and documentation to support decision-making and program implementation.
• Liaise with internal and external stakeholders to ensure effective collaboration and monitor ongoing activities.
• Identify and manage partnerships with government and development partners to strengthen program implementation.
• Support capacity strengthening of stakeholders through training and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
• Provide guidance to support staff on program-related issues. 1
• Contribute to program learning and accountability processes by supporting evaluations and documenting best practices. 1
• Ensure integration of gender and disability inclusion into program activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an Advanced University Degree in fields such as International Development, Public Administration, Economics, Education, Agriculture, Nutrition, Social Sciences, Business Administration, or Project Management. Alternatively, a First University Degree with additional relevant experience is acceptable. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical, drafting, coordination, and stakeholder engagement skills, along with project management capabilities.

Educational Background:
An Advanced University Degree in relevant fields is required, or a First University Degree with additional years of relevant experience. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of program management and policy development in the context of food security and nutrition.

Experience:
At least one year of progressively responsible postgraduate professional experience in program management, project implementation, or capacity strengthening is required. Alternatively, candidates with a First University Degree should have at least three years of relevant professional experience. Experience in partnership management and monitoring is also essential, along with strong analytical and project management skills.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, along with proficiency in Tajik and/or Russian. Fluency in both Tajik and Russian is considered an advantage, as it facilitates communication with local stakeholders and enhances program effectiveness.

Additional Notes:
This position is a Fixed-Term contract at the NOA level, based in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, with a duration of one year, extendable based on performance and organizational needs. The role is open to nationals from Tajikistan only. WFP offers a competitive compensation package, including a tax-free salary, pension, leave, and medical insurance. The organization emphasizes a diverse and inclusive work environment and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.