Programme Policy Officer NOB

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Position Title: Programme Policy Officer NOB
Location: Colombo
Country: Sri Lanka
Deadline Date: 16.03.2025

Job Details

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 as a means to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for individuals recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. WFP operates globally, with a mission centered around the belief that security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security is a fundamental human right. The organization is committed to diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. WFP has a workforce that is diverse, skilled, and high-performing, and it operates in numerous countries worldwide, providing humanitarian assistance to millions in need. The organization was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020, recognizing its efforts in combating hunger and promoting peace. WFP invests in the personal and professional development of its employees through various training and mentorship programs, fostering a culture of continuous learning and growth. To learn more about WFP, visit their official website and follow them on social media platforms for updates and news.

Job Overview:
The Programme Policy Officer (PPO) will play a crucial role in supporting the head of the programme in implementing the agreed Country Strategic Plan (CSP). This position involves providing strategic guidance and implementation support for WFP’s nutrition" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food and nutrition security initiatives, particularly those focused on resilience building. The PPO will be involved in various initiatives, including Climate Change Adaptation, Disaster Risk Reduction, Adaptive and Shock Responsive Social Protection, and activities linked to the National School Meals Programme and Large Scale Food Fortification. The role requires close collaboration with the management team for advocacy and resource mobilization efforts related to the CSP. The PPO will engage with government entities through the Partnership Secretariat for WFP Cooperation and will work extensively with line ministries, civil society, academia, and private sector organizations at both national and sub-national levels to advance CSP activities. The position will require some travel, as the PPO will work with a team based in Colombo and in the field.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The key accountabilities for the Programme Policy Officer include contributing to the development of a variety of projects, plans, and processes, ensuring alignment with broader programme policies and guidance. The PPO will provide project management support for specific programmes and projects of considerable size and complexity, ensuring a coordinated approach that complies with WFP standards and procedures. Responsibilities also include 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 programmes, and preparing accurate and timely reports on programmes and activities to facilitate informed decision-making. The PPO will liaise with internal and external counterparts to ensure effective collaboration, monitor ongoing projects, and identify potential risks to project delivery. Additionally, the PPO will support the identification and management of partnerships to enhance food assistance packages and will contribute to the capacity building of WFP staff, partners, and national government in preparing for and responding to food assistance needs. The role also involves guiding and supervising staff, acting as a point of referral, and supporting them with analysis and queries.

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 courses may be acceptable. The desired experience for entry into the role includes a minimum of seven years of experience in a similar capacity with a first university degree, or a minimum of three years of experience in a similar capacity after completing an advanced university degree. Candidates should have deepened technical knowledge through exposure to technical teams, have taken leadership roles in implementing programmes, and have provided input into policy discussions and decisions.

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

Experience:
The level of experience needed for this position includes a minimum of seven years in a similar capacity with a first university degree, or a minimum of three years of experience in a similar capacity after completing an advanced university degree. Candidates should demonstrate a strong background in project management and policy development, with a proven track record of working in complex environments and leading initiatives.

Languages:
Fluency in English (level C) is mandatory, along with proficiency in the duty station's language, if different. This ensures effective communication and collaboration within the team and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is a Fixed Term contract (NOB) with a duration of one year, with the possibility of extension. The duty station is Colombo, Sri Lanka, and this vacancy announcement is specifically for Sri Lankan nationals only. WFP emphasizes its commitment to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. The organization does not charge any fees in connection with the application or recruitment process, and candidates are advised to be cautious when submitting personal information online. The application deadline is set for 16 March 2025.