Programme Policy Officer (Head of Field Office)

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 in numerous countries around the globe, employing a diverse workforce dedicated to humanitarian efforts. The organization is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment that values diversity and encourages equal employment opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their background. WFP has been recognized for its efforts, notably being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 202

• The organization emphasizes the importance of personal and professional development for its employees, offering various training programs, mentorship opportunities, and career advancement paths across its global offices. WFP's mission is centered around the belief that people are at the heart of everything it does, and it strives to create a healthy and inclusive work environment that aligns with its core values of Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion.

Job Overview:
The Programme Policy Officer (Head of Field Office) position is crucial for the effective management and implementation of WFP’s food assistance programs within the designated field office jurisdiction. The role involves planning and overseeing operations in alignment with the WFP Country Strategic Plan, ensuring that resources are utilized efficiently and effectively. The Head of Field Office will supervise field-office staff, providing guidance and support to ensure that they can perform their duties effectively. This position also entails ensuring the safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security of WFP personnel and assets, maintaining financial accountability, and ensuring compliance with WFP standards and procedures. The officer will engage with beneficiaries and stakeholders to assess program implementation challenges and recommend improvements, contributing to the overall success of WFP’s mission in the region. The role requires a proactive approach to emergency preparedness and response, ensuring that the field office is equipped to handle disaster situations and coordinate effectively with various partners.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Head of Field Office will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to:

• Management of Field Office: Planning and managing WFP’s operations within the Field Office jurisdiction, implementing the Country Strategic Plan activities, and supervising field-office staff.
• Safety and Security: Ensuring the safety and security of WFP staff, operations, equipment, and vehicles.
• Financial Management: Maintaining the field-office petty cash and sub-imprest account expenditures.
• Project Management: Providing project management support for specific programs, conducting field visits, engaging with beneficiaries, and assessing implementation challenges.
• Reporting: Preparing accurate and timely reports on programs and activities, ensuring consistency of information presented to stakeholders.
• Stakeholder Coordination: Representing WFP in the field, liaising with government authorities, NGOs, UN agencies, and other partners.
• Emergency Preparedness: Preparing situation reports for disaster events, identifying priority areas for preparedness, and managing emergency responses.
• Capacity Support: Supporting the capacity building of WFP staff, partners, and government entities to respond to food assistance needs.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong set of qualifications, including:

• Advanced University (Masters) degree in Economics, International Development, Social Sciences, or a related field.
• Minimum of five (5) years of relevant experience, with at least three (3) years in a professional capacity within program management.
• Proven ability to manage small to mid-size financial budgets and lead teams effectively.
• Experience in implementing programs related to emergency response and livelihood initiatives.
• Strong analytical skills to assess local political situations and risks accurately.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes the completion of an Advanced University (Masters) degree in relevant fields such as Economics, International Development, or Social Sciences. This advanced education is essential for understanding the complexities of program management and the socio-economic factors affecting food assistance initiatives.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five (5) years of professional experience, with at least three (3) years specifically in program management. Candidates should have experience in implementing programs, managing budgets, and leading teams to achieve objectives effectively. Field experience or working in a field office is highly desirable, as it provides practical insights into the challenges and dynamics of humanitarian operations.

Languages:
Fluency in both spoken and written English and Bangla is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing communication with diverse stakeholders and beneficiaries.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term contract for a duration of 12 months, based in Khulna, Bangladesh. It is specifically open to Bangladeshi Nationals. WFP offers a competitive benefits package, including salary, pension, leave, and medical insurance. The organization emphasizes the importance of a complete and accurate application profile, including employment records, academic qualifications, and language skills. All documents submitted will be verified, and discrepancies may lead to disqualification. WFP is committed to providing an inclusive work environment and supports individuals with disabilities by offering reasonable accommodations throughout the recruitment process.