Programme Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is an international organization that leads global efforts to defeat hunger and improve nutrition and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security. Established in 1945, FAO has over 194 member countries and works in more than 130 countries worldwide. The organization aims to achieve food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. The Forestry Division (NFO) is a key part of FAO's mission, focusing on sustainable forest management and the environmental, social, and economic dimensions of forestry.

Job Overview:
The Programme Officer position is situated within the Forestry Division (NFO) at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy. The role involves the implementation, monitoring, review, and assessment of policies, programmes, operations, and activities in assigned functional areas. The Programme Officer will be responsible for developing, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating assigned programmes/projects. This position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to liaise with various stakeholders to ensure the successful execution of forestry-related initiatives. The officer will also engage in policy development, prepare written outputs, conduct outreach activities, and coordinate budget-related activities, ensuring that all projects align with FAO's strategic objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Officer will participate in the development, implementation, and evaluation of assigned programmes/projects, monitoring and analyzing their progress. Key responsibilities include reviewing relevant documents and reports to identify issues, proposing corrective actions, and liaising with relevant parties. The officer will assist in policy development by analyzing trends and preparing impact evaluations. Additionally, the role involves preparing various written outputs such as background papers, analyses, and sections of reports. The Programme Officer will conduct training workshops and seminars, coordinate budget and funding activities, and prepare related documents and reports. Specific functions include supporting the operation of the NFO Support Hub, consolidating and analyzing programme information, monitoring delivery trends, and supporting risk management and internal control processes. The officer will also contribute to knowledge management and the continuous improvement of programme management practices.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in business administration, public administration, social science, political science, international development, international relations, or a related field. A minimum of five years of relevant experience in project or programme management, administration, or a related field is required. Proficiency in English (level C) and intermediate knowledge of another official FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) (level B) is mandatory. Competencies such as results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing are essential for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as business administration, public administration, social science, political science, international development, or international relations. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of programme management and policy development within the context of FAO's mission.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in project or programme management, administration, or a related field. Candidates with work experience in multiple locations or areas, particularly in field positions, are preferred. Experience in administration, human resources, finance, and general management is also highly relevant, as is experience in programme/project formulation, analysis, planning, and implementation.

Languages:
Candidates must have a working knowledge of English (proficiency - level C) and intermediate knowledge of another official FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) (intermediate proficiency - level B). This linguistic capability is essential for effective communication and collaboration within the international context of FAO's operations.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Rome, Italy, at FAO headquarters. It is a full-time role, and candidates will be assessed against the minimum requirements outlined in the job description. The role may involve international collaboration and requires a commitment to FAO's mission of promoting sustainable forest management and addressing global food security challenges.