Senior Investigator (Head Of Unit)

Organizational Context

The Office of the Inspector-General (OIG) at FAO provides oversight of programmes and operations through internal audit and investigations. The Investigations Branch (OIGI) investigates misconduct by FAO personnel and sanctionable actions by third parties, covering fraud, corruption, abuse of privileges, sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment, retaliation against whistleblowers, and other conduct contrary to the International Civil Service Standards of Conduct. OIG also reports on lessons learned, conducts integrity reviews, and promotes policies to enhance FAO's operational integrity. The OIGI is based at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy.

Job Purpose

This role involves conducting investigations into allegations of misconduct and wrongdoing by FAO personnel and third parties, and advising on improvements to the Organization's integrity policies. The primary objective is to manage the Investigations Branch's activities, focusing on reviewing and investigating allegations of fraud, corruption, sexual exploitation and abuse, workplace harassment, and other wrongdoings. Key responsibilities include developing recommendations to strengthen internal controls against fraud risks, prevent policy violations, and promote activities that enhance the integrity of FAO operations, all while upholding the highest ethical standards.

Responsibilities

Plan and manage specialized or multidisciplinary investigation teams, supervising staff. Provide critical input into the investigation programme of work, including policies, procedures, systems, and best practices for planning, conducting, collecting evidence, writing reports, and following up on investigations at headquarters and decentralized offices. Direct investigation activities in response to allegations of fraud, corruption, or misconduct involving FAO programmes, projects, operations, and third parties like suppliers and partners. Review intake assessments, assign investigations, and provide technical guidance. Plan and conduct complex and special investigations, presenting findings to senior management for decision-making. Ensure quality control of investigation outcomes and adherence to office procedures and standards. Direct and contribute to reports on investigation matters, trends, and proactive integrity reviews. Develop recommendations to prevent policy violations and promote organizational integrity. Provide technical advisory services on sanctioning procedures, procurement policies, fraud policies, ethical conduct, and whistleblower protection. Lead or participate in organizational working groups and committees. Liaise with legal, HR, and external investigators. Plan and lead training on fraud and corruption prevention and detection. Contribute to OIG reports and manage delegated budget portions.

Work Experience

A minimum of ten years of relevant experience in fact-finding and investigations, including supervisory capacity, is required. Experience should cover misconduct, wrongdoing by employees, suppliers, and partners, including fraud and corruption, utilizing investigation techniques and procedures. Experience in more than one work location or area, particularly in field positions, is essential, while international setting experience is desirable.

Skills

Demonstrated ability to analyze legal and procedural issues and complex evidence, including documentary and financial data. Proven experience in conducting interviews, delivering presentations, networking, building stakeholder relationships, and writing/editing complex reports. Strong managerial experience and leadership skills in implementing investigation programmes. Advanced knowledge of investigative theories, concepts, and approaches. A professional law qualification is an advantage. Ability to mobilize resources is also required.

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