Programme Officer

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Position Title: Programme Officer
Location: Antananarivo
Country: Madagascar
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has over 194 member countries and works in more than 130 countries worldwide. The organization aims to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. FAO's commitment to environmental sustainability is integral to its strategic objectives and operations, focusing on developing policies, programs, and projects that enhance food security and reduce hunger and malnutrition while promoting sustainable use of natural resources.

Job Overview:
The Programme Officer will oversee the four-year Programme (2024-2028) in response to the Locust Plague in Madagascar. This role involves program/project design, resource mobilization, strategic planning, and financial resources management. The Programme Officer will work closely with the FAO Representative and Deputy FAO Representative, as well as various technical units within the FAO office and other relevant stakeholders. The position requires a strong focus on providing technical support for the implementation of locust emergency responses and preventive control strategies, ensuring alignment with FAO's objectives and technical requirements. The Programme Officer will also be responsible for developing, implementing, and evaluating assigned programs/projects, monitoring their development and implementation, and ensuring effective communication and coordination among all parties involved.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including: developing, implementing, and evaluating assigned programs/projects; monitoring and analyzing program/project development and implementation; reviewing relevant documents and reports; identifying problems and initiating corrective actions; liaising with relevant parties; ensuring follow-up actions; performing specific assignments in collaboration with clients; researching, analyzing, and presenting information from diverse sources; coordinating policy development; generating survey initiatives; organizing and preparing written outputs; providing substantive backstopping to meetings and conferences; initiating and coordinating outreach activities; conducting training workshops and seminars; leading large field missions; coordinating budget funding activities; and preparing related documents and reports. Specific functions include leading the 2024-2028 Locust Programme, monitoring implementation, preparing project work plans, supervising budget expenditures, managing human resources, ensuring effective coordination with implementing partners, coordinating procurement activities, supporting resource mobilization, and maintaining relationships with strategic partners.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in agriculture, business administration, public administration, social science, political science, development studies, or a related field. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of seven years of relevant experience in project or programme management, operations, administration, or a related area, with at least five years of professional experience in locust management. Competencies required include results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing. Technical and functional skills such as work experience in multiple locations, budgetary and financial management, and knowledge of FAO policies and programs are also essential.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in agriculture, business administration, public administration, social science, political science, development studies, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of agricultural policies, project management, and the socio-economic factors influencing food security and locust management.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of seven years of relevant experience in project or programme management, operations, administration, or related areas. This experience must include at least five years of professional involvement in one or more areas of locust management, demonstrating a deep understanding of the challenges and strategies involved in managing locust populations and their impact on agriculture and food security.

Languages:
A working knowledge (proficiency - level C) of English is mandatory, along with intermediate knowledge (intermediate proficiency - level B) of another FAO official language, which can be Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish. Additionally, a working knowledge of French is considered a strong asset, enhancing communication and collaboration within the FAO and with various stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Antananarivo, Madagascar, and involves full-time engagement. The Programme Officer will be expected to work closely with various stakeholders, including government officials, external consultants, and implementing partners. The role may involve travel to field locations for project implementation and monitoring. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with FAO's policies and regulations, and candidates will be assessed against the minimum requirements outlined in the job description.