Field Coordinator

Organizational Context

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the UN dedicated to achieving food security for all and leading international efforts to defeat hunger. FAO supports the transformation to efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems worldwide. FAO Country Offices provide policy advice, technical assistance, and support partnerships to deliver core services and strengthen impact at the country level, aligning with national priorities and international frameworks. The STAR-FARM project, funded by the EU, aims to establish sustainable value chains in Vietnam's Mekong Delta using agroecological approaches, with FAO managing and coordinating the project consortium.

Job Purpose

The Field Coordinator will provide essential technical support and coordination for all project-related field activities and events. This role involves ensuring seamless collaboration among the project donor, Project Management Unit (PMU), FAO, and the five consortium members. The Field Coordinator will be responsible for monitoring progress, reporting to supervisors and the project team at FAO, and facilitating timely and efficient execution of all field operations. This position is crucial for the successful implementation of the STAR-FARM project in Vietnam, ensuring that field activities align with project objectives and stakeholder requirements.

Responsibilities

Coordinate and gather input from stakeholders to develop periodical field-work plans aligned with the overall project workplan. Facilitate administrative procedures at the provincial level to secure permissions for project activities and international staff fieldwork. Support the implementation of all field activities conducted by FAO, consortium members, and related stakeholders. Research and identify similar initiatives by other projects or donors in the project areas to foster collaboration and synergies. Advise on potential overlaps in field activities with other stakeholders in the project provinces and the Mekong Delta to ensure coordinated efforts. Monitor the progress of project fieldwork and actively discuss implementation and coordination issues with FAO and other stakeholders. Support the organization of workshops, training, field trips, donor visits, and meetings, including logistical arrangements and permission acquisition. Regularly liaise with local government agencies and other stakeholders to provide updates on project progress and address emerging issues. Contribute to periodical operational and other project reports. Perform other assigned tasks as required.

Work Experience

A minimum of 5 years of experience in agricultural development, with a preference for field-based roles, is required. Experience working with inter-governmental bodies, multi-disciplinary teams, and within the development sector at the field level is advantageous. Familiarity with the UN system, particularly FAO, is considered a plus. Proficiency in standard office software and project management tools is necessary.

Skills

Key competencies include Results Focus, Teamwork, Communication, Building Effective Relationships, and Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement. Essential technical skills involve experience with inter-governmental bodies and multi-disciplinary teams, work in the development sector at the field level, and computer literacy in standard office software and project management tools. Good knowledge of agricultural production systems and practices, especially within the project's focus areas, is required. Experience with the UN system, particularly FAO, is an advantage.

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