Food Safety and Quality Officer

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 to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. WFP operates in numerous countries around the globe, employing thousands of individuals dedicated to humanitarian efforts. The organization is committed to diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. WFP has received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020, highlighting its significant contributions to global humanitarian efforts. The organization emphasizes a healthy and inclusive work environment, where employees are valued and supported in their professional development through various training and mentorship programs. WFP's mission is centered around the values of Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion, ensuring that the workforce is skilled, diverse, and high-performing, working together to save and change lives.

Job Overview:
The Food Safety and Quality Officer position at WFP is crucial for ensuring compliance with food safety and quality standards within the organization's supply chain operations. The officer will provide technical guidance on food safety and quality (FSQ) matters, ensuring that all operations adhere to established guidelines and best practices. This role involves analyzing data related to food quality and safety, preparing reports, and implementing risk management strategies to mitigate potential issues. The officer will also be responsible for monitoring food quality during storage, conducting regular quality checks, and guiding teams on best practices. In the event of food incidents, the officer will lead investigations to protect WFP's reputation and the health of beneficiaries. The position requires collaboration with food regulatory authorities and laboratories to ensure compliance with national food standards and WFP regulations. The officer will also support the integration of FSQ into procurement and programmatic interventions, contributing to the overall effectiveness of WFP's humanitarian assistance efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Food Safety and Quality Officer will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Providing technical guidance on FSQ matters related to supply chain operations and ensuring compliance with the FSQ manual.
• Analyzing data and preparing reports on food quality and safety, applying risk management strategies.
• Monitoring food quality during storage and guiding teams on best practices to prevent losses and safety issues.
• Conducting regular quality checks in WFP and partner warehouses to ensure compliance with WFP standards.
• Guiding third-party service providers on fumigation practices and supporting capacity building around FSQ.
• Establishing relationships with food regulatory authorities to ensure compliance with food safety regulations.
• Implementing product testing programs and coordinating with regional focal points for compliance.
• Supporting FSQ integration into procurement and programmatic interventions to prevent food loss.
• Building productive relationships with supply chain colleagues and enhancing FSQ culture within WFP. 1
• Following emergency preparedness practices to ensure rapid response to crises. 1
• Acting in an emergency response capacity as required. 1
• Performing other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a secondary school education or a university degree (Diploma/Bachelor) in Food Technology, Food Science, Nutrition, or a related field. Additionally, candidates should have at least six years of relevant work experience with a Secondary School Certificate or a minimum of two years of relevant experience with a university degree. Knowledge of food safety and quality management systems, such as HACCP, ISO, and FSSC 22000, is essential, particularly in the FMCG food division. Candidates should also have knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Good Hygiene Practices, and food laboratory analysis. Proficiency in computer skills, including Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook, is required, along with strong analytical and communication skills. Candidates should be willing to share their expertise through training and practical interventions in the field.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes the completion of secondary school education or a university degree (Diploma/Bachelor) in Food Technology, Food Science, Nutrition, or a related field. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of food safety and quality management within the humanitarian context.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically at least six years of relevant work experience with a Secondary School Certificate or a minimum of two years of relevant experience with a university degree. This experience should be in areas such as food technology, nutrition, food fortification, or related project implementation, demonstrating the candidate's ability to manage food safety and quality effectively within supply chain operations.

Languages:
Fluency in English (level C) and Somali is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication within the organization and with external stakeholders, ensuring that food safety and quality standards are upheld across all operations.

Additional Notes:
This position is open exclusively to qualified Somali national candidates, with a strong encouragement for female candidates to apply. WFP is committed to creating female-friendly spaces in the workplace. The organization emphasizes the importance of reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. The job may involve full-time engagement, and candidates should be aware that WFP does not charge any fees during the application process. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks to ensure a safe and inclusive work environment.