Senior National Project Coordinator (Forest and Land Use)

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations established to lead international efforts to defeat hunger. With a mission to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all, FAO ensures that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. Founded in 1945, FAO has 195 Members, including 194 Nations and the European Union, and operates in over 130 countries worldwide. The organization provides policy advice and support through its Country Offices, which work in alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) and the Country Programming Frameworks (CPFs) of each member country. FAO's work encompasses advocacy, technical assistance, partnership development, and ensuring accountable operations to strengthen impact at the country level.

Job Overview:
The Senior National Project Coordinator (SNPC) will play a crucial role in the implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of projects focused on Natural Resources and Climate Change in Malawi. This position involves providing technical leadership and coordination for the AFR100 project, which aims to restore degraded landscapes and enhance the resilience of forest and farm producers through sustainable land management and climate-smart interventions. The SNPC will also oversee the GEF7 DSL-IP project, which focuses on sustainable forest and biodiversity management. The role requires close collaboration with government counterparts, development partners, and FAO personnel to ensure that project objectives are met and that new project ideas are formulated for resource mobilization. The incumbent will be responsible for ensuring that all project activities align with FAO's strategic goals and operational guidelines, thereby contributing to the broader mission of FAO in Malawi.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior National Project Coordinator include:

• Providing strategic leadership and technical direction for the planning, implementation, monitoring, and reporting of all assigned projects.
• Leading the preparation and management of project budgets, workplans, travel plans, and procurement plans, ensuring compliance with FAO rules and procedures.
• Overseeing project implementation to ensure timely and high-quality delivery of activities and achievement of results.
• Strengthening partnerships with government institutions, resource partners, and service providers, while offering mentorship and technical guidance.
• Coordinating field missions and operational activities related to project implementation.
• Leading the organization of partner meetings and project technical committee meetings, and advising FAO's senior management on project progress.
• Developing and managing sub-contracts with project implementing partners, ensuring compliance and accountability.
• Preparing and submitting periodic project reports, including progress and evaluation reports.
• Providing operational guidance and troubleshooting support to FAO field offices and project districts. 1
• Contributing to strategic planning and knowledge sharing within the natural resources and environment thematic area. 1
• Identifying opportunities for resource mobilization and leading efforts to strengthen FAO's portfolio in forestry and climate change. 1
• Supervising affiliate personnel working under the project and performing other duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in fields such as Agriculture, Forestry, Natural Resources Management, or closely related areas. Additionally, candidates should have at least ten years of relevant professional experience in agricultural development, natural resource management, watershed management, ecosystem restoration, and implementation of donor-funded projects. A working knowledge of English at Level C is required, and candidates must be nationals of Malawi or residents with a valid work permit. FAO core competencies such as results focus, teamwork, communication, and building effective relationships are essential, along with technical skills in program and project management, strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and operational management.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in Agriculture, Forestry, Natural Resources Management, or a closely related field. The degree must be from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU) or UNESCO, ensuring that the educational qualifications meet international standards. Candidates are encouraged to verify their qualifications against the World Higher Education Database (WHED) to ensure compliance with FAO's requirements.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of ten years of relevant professional experience in areas such as agricultural development, natural resource management, and ecosystem restoration. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing donor-funded projects, particularly those involving vertical funds like GEF and GCF. Experience working with government institutions, development partners, and community-based organizations is highly valued, as is familiarity with FAO project implementation processes.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English at Level C is mandatory for this position. While English proficiency is essential for communication and reporting, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the local context or the stakeholders involved in the projects.

Additional Notes:
The FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or processing. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates should note that FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from accredited institutions recognized in the WHED. The appointment will be subject to certification of medical fitness, residency or visa requirements, and security clearances. This position may involve full-time engagement and requires a commitment to the mission and values of FAO.