Programme Assistant

Organizational Context

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) supports the transformation to efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems to improve production, nutrition, the environment, and quality of life. FAO country offices assist governments in developing policies, programmes, and projects to achieve food security, reduce hunger and malnutrition, and promote sustainable use of natural resources. This position is based in the FAO Representation in Mogadishu, Somalia.

Job Purpose

The Programme Assistant coordinates specialized and complex processes and activities to support the Office's work programme, including planning and budgeting. This role provides procedural guidance to managers and staff, operating with independence on work priorities while ensuring the quality of outputs. The incumbent works under the general supervision of professional staff, receiving guidance from the Programme Officer, and offers advice to other programme support staff. Close collaboration with colleagues across the Organization is essential to ensure consistent and high-quality programme and project support services.

Responsibilities

Monitor Regular Programme and Project budgets, ensuring proper allocation, reporting, and timely corrective actions; alert management to budget issues. Support budget holders in preparing Periodic Budgetary Reports (PBR), the biennial Programme of Work and Budget (PWB), and related work plans. Prepare project budget revisions in consultation with budget holders. Assist in the initiation, administration, and monitoring of Letters of Agreement during project implementation. Respond to routine queries and provide clarifications on programme and project matters, informing staff of administrative processes and timeframes. Review data quality, maintain office records, and compile data for financial analyses. Generate periodic or ad-hoc management reports. Coordinate administrative and financial actions for staff management, travel, payments, and procurement. Support the dissemination of project outputs and communication materials. Provide procedural guidance to junior staff and recommend improvements to programme/project administration procedures.

Work Experience

Requires four years of relevant experience in providing programme and project support services. Candidates must be nationals of Somalia or possess a valid work permit and reside within commuting distance of Mogadishu.

Skills

Proficiency in English (Level C). Good knowledge of MS Office applications, the Internet, and office technology. Very good knowledge of corporate information systems, programme and budget processes, common administrative and financial rules, and communication/documentation standards. Working knowledge of Somali is desirable.

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