Programme Policy Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries, employing thousands of staff members who are committed to the mission of eradicating hunger. WFP is recognized for its efforts in providing food assistance and is a 2020 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, reflecting its significant contributions to humanitarian efforts globally. The organization emphasizes diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified candidates from various backgrounds to apply for positions within its ranks. WFP's core values include Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion, which guide its operations and interactions with partners and beneficiaries. For more information, visit their website at https://www.wfp.org and follow them on social media platforms.

Job Overview:
The Programme Policy Officer position at WFP is crucial for supporting the organization's efforts in addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, particularly in the context of the ongoing Ukraine refugee crisis. The officer will be responsible for contributing to the development of projects and processes that align with WFP's program policies and the priorities of the host government in the areas of social protection and food assistance. This role involves providing project management support for specific programs, ensuring effective collaboration with internal and external stakeholders, and assisting in the planning and implementation of food assistance programs. The officer will also play a key role in enhancing WFP's leadership status in forums related to food assistance and social protection, thereby contributing to the overall mission of achieving zero hunger.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Policy Officer will have a range of responsibilities, including:

• Contributing to the development of projects, plans, and processes that align with WFP policies and government priorities in social protection and food assistance.
• Providing project management support to specific programs, ensuring a coordinated approach within WFP and with external stakeholders, including national and local authorities.
• Liaising with internal and external counterparts to ensure effective collaboration, monitoring ongoing projects, and identifying potential risks to project delivery.
• Assisting government counterparts and partners in identifying opportunities for food assistance and social protection programs, providing technical expertise for planning and implementation.
• Supporting the identification and management of partnerships to enhance food assistance packages.
• Preparing accurate and timely reports on programs and activities for informed decision-making and consistency of information presented to stakeholders.
• Managing the preparation and dissemination of analytical reports, publications, and information products for internal or external use.
• Supporting capacity building for WFP staff, partners, and government entities to prepare for and respond to food assistance needs.
• Enhancing WFP’s leadership status in relevant forums. 1
• Performing other duties as required within the area of expertise.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree or a first university degree with additional years of relevant work experience and/or training. The qualifications required for this position include a strong understanding of program disciplines related to cash-based transfers, social protection, and food assistance. Experience working with various stakeholders, including national and local authorities and international partners, is essential. The role demands a proactive approach to project management and collaboration, as well as the ability to navigate complex social protection frameworks.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as social sciences, international relations, public policy, or a related discipline. Alternatively, a first university degree combined with additional years of relevant work experience and/or training may be acceptable. Continuous professional development through training and courses related to program management and social protection is highly valued.

Experience:
The level of experience required varies based on the contract level: for SC9, at least three years of relevant professional experience is required, while for SC8, at least one year of relevant professional experience is necessary. Relevant experience includes work in program disciplines such as cash-based transfers, social protection, and food assistance, with a focus on collaboration with various stakeholders, including government entities and international organizations.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Romanian is mandatory for this role, encompassing reading, writing, and speaking skills. Knowledge of Russian is considered an asset, enhancing communication capabilities within the diverse contexts in which WFP operates.

Additional Notes:
This position is offered as a Service Contract, with a duration of six months that is renewable based on performance and organizational needs. The role is based in Chisinau, Moldova, and is classified at the SC9/SC8 level. WFP is committed to providing an inclusive work environment and encourages applications from individuals with disabilities. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and emphasizes the importance of submitting a complete and accurate application profile.