Food Standards Officer

Organizational Context

The Secretariat of the Joint FAO/World Health Organization (WHO) Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) is the executive organ of the Joint FAO/WHO Food Standards Programme. Located at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy, the Secretariat services the Commission's sessions and subsidiary bodies. It acts as a liaison between the Commission and various sectors of FAO, WHO, the World Trade Organization (WTO), the United Nations, and other international organizations concerned with food safety, quality, and trade standards.

Job Purpose

The Food Standards Officer is responsible for the effective planning, preparation, implementation, and follow-up of the work of specific subsidiary bodies of the Codex Alimentarius Commission. This role focuses on developing food safety and quality standards to protect consumer health and ensure fair practices in food trade, aligning with the Codex Strategic Plan. Key results include the administration and execution of scientific and technical aspects of the Joint FAO/WHO Food Standards Programme, leading or supporting Codex Secretariat teams, monitoring standards development, and preparing final standards for publication. The position also involves representing the Programme at international meetings and providing technical advice.

Responsibilities

Leads or supports Codex Secretariat teams for subsidiary bodies, preparing agendas, working documents, and session reports. Monitors the progress of standards development and the implementation of the Codex Strategic Plan. Prepares adopted standards for publication, ensuring usability and accessibility. Develops technical papers and reports for the Commission and its Executive Committee in collaboration with senior officers. Represents the Joint FAO/WHO Food Standards Programme at relevant international standards-setting meetings. Participates in expert bodies convened by FAO and WHO to provide scientific or technical advice. Oversees the review of observer status applications for international organizations. Provides technical advice and information on food standards to governments and other stakeholders. Contributes to improving Codex policies and procedures. Liaises with FAO/WHO scientific bodies to ensure clear communication and support work planning. Coordinates engagement in specific FAO, WHO, and external organizational initiatives. Supports the development and dissemination of information for delegates, including training and handbook development. Contributes to communication activities, including interviews, presentations, and articles.

Work Experience

Requires seven years of relevant experience in the development and application of food standards and food control programs at national, regional, or global levels. Experience in more than one work location or area, particularly in field positions, is desirable. Experience in analyzing technical information, preparing reports, and providing solutions is also beneficial.

Skills

Demonstrated technical knowledge in areas covered by Codex food safety and quality standards. Experience in analyzing technical information, preparing clear reports, and proposing solutions. Proven ability to organize and coordinate meetings, especially at global or regional levels. Experience in intergovernmental and cross-sectoral negotiations and multilateral forums related to food safety and trade. Diplomatic and effective collaboration and communication skills for diverse contexts. Understanding of the work of the Codex Alimentarius Commission.

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