Inspector General

Organizational Context

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) supports global efforts to achieve sustainable agri-food systems for better production, nutrition, environment, and life. The Office of the Inspector General (OIG) provides crucial oversight of FAO's programmes and operations through internal audit and investigations. OIG is responsible for investigating misconduct by personnel and sanctionable actions by third parties, covering a wide range of issues including fraud, corruption, and harassment, ensuring adherence to international standards of conduct.

Job Purpose

The Inspector General, reporting directly to the Director-General, is responsible for independently designing, organizing, and directing a comprehensive internal oversight program for FAO's operations and programmes. This role involves evaluating the effectiveness of governance, risk management, and internal controls, providing objective assurance to enhance accountability and management. The Inspector General will also provide strategic direction for audit and investigation functions, develop and implement a risk-based internal audit plan aligned with FAO's strategic framework, and ensure timely and professional assessment and investigation of misconduct allegations.

Responsibilities

The Inspector General will independently design, organize, and direct a coordinated programme of internal oversight, including internal audit and investigations, for FAO's programmes and operations. Key duties involve evaluating the adequacy and effectiveness of the Organization's governance, risk management, and internal controls. The role includes advising the Director-General with independent assurance to improve accountability and management, and providing strategic direction for audit and investigation functions. Responsibilities also encompass developing and implementing a long-term, risk-based internal audit plan, ensuring allegations of misconduct are properly assessed and investigated, and promoting integrity through disseminating findings and lessons learned. The Inspector General will manage OIG's financial and human resources, establish a quality assurance program, report on oversight activities to the FAO Finance Committee, and represent the Organization in oversight matters.

Work Experience

Extensive experience in a complex oversight function, preferably in an international setting, with at least ten years at an executive level or as Chief Audit Executive. Requires high-level, progressively responsible professional experience in a large organization, utilizing innovative auditing and management techniques. Demonstrated strong leadership and managerial skills, with the ability to exercise professional judgment and handle sensitive issues with diplomacy and confidentiality.

Skills

Demonstrated leadership and managerial skills of a high order, with maturity and the ability to apply sound judgment in exercising professional independence. Ability to handle complex and sensitive issues with diplomacy, confidentiality, and sensitivity. Familiarity with the UN system or similar international institutions is beneficial. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships across diverse national and cultural backgrounds. Working knowledge of English (Level C) and intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) is required.

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