Assistant FAO Representative (Programme)

Organizational Context

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is committed to environmental sustainability, integral to its strategic objectives and operations. FAO Country Offices, led by FAO Representatives, assist national governments in developing policies, strategies, programmes, and projects to accelerate the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals within FAO's global mandate. The FAO Representation in Liberia serves as the liaison between FAO and the Liberian Government, appraising assistance requests, and managing the full project cycle for national projects.

Job Purpose

The Assistant FAO Representative (Programme) provides programme development, coordination, and operational assistance, leveraging knowledge of local conditions, culture, language, and institutions. The role ensures effective coordination and delivery of technical and operational support for the FAO Representation's programme and project activities. Key responsibilities include liaising with government authorities and institutions, promoting FAO's image and mandate, coordinating country data collection on food and agriculture, and contributing to policy studies and development frameworks like the Country Programming Framework (CPF) and UNSDCF.

Responsibilities

The Assistant FAO Representative (Programme) is responsible for participating in the identification, formulation, and preparation of programme and project proposals. This includes monitoring and reviewing project implementation to ensure adherence to work plans and project documents, and proposing corrective measures for operational constraints. The role involves briefing, training, and supervising junior programme staff, ensuring accuracy and diligence. Specific functions include monitoring key deliverables and project results, overseeing project and programme implementation, and contributing to the country's Resource Mobilization Strategy. The position also involves promoting partnerships with the private sector, academia, and civil society, and providing guidance on operational and administrative support.

Work Experience

A minimum of three years of relevant experience in the public and/or private sectors is required. This experience should be related to programming, planning, technical cooperation in food and agriculture, and/or project implementation within FAO's areas of activity in the country.

Skills

Proficiency in English and the local language is essential. Key skills include strong results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing. Experience in programme/project development and management, understanding of UN/FAO operational guidelines, policy analysis in food security and rural development, country data collection, and proposal formulation/implementation are highly valued.

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