Programme Specialist

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 livelihoods, aligning with the 2030 Agenda and its Strategic Framework. The FAO Coordination Office for the West Bank and Gaza Strip (WBGS) Programme implements the Country Programming Framework for Palestine, aiming to enhance Palestinian well-being by fostering a more robust agrifood system in line with national policies and the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework.

Job Purpose

The Programme Specialist will support the effective and efficient delivery of programme and project activities at the country level for the FAO Office in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. This role is crucial for advancing the organization's objectives by contributing to the development and implementation of programmatic interventions. The position requires a proactive approach to supporting programme development, ensuring alignment with strategic goals and operational requirements, and facilitating the successful execution of projects designed to enhance the agrifood sector and support recovery efforts.

Responsibilities

The Programme Specialist will assist in collecting, consolidating, and drafting information materials and reports to support project implementation and the formulation of new project concepts. This includes developing programme-specific materials in consultation with teams and partners. The role involves supporting the identification and formulation of interventions for the early recovery and reconstruction of the agri-food system in Gaza, requiring the review of needs assessments and development of concept notes aligned with resource mobilization. The specialist will participate in programmatic meetings, document outcomes, and follow up on recommendations. They will monitor project implementation to ensure timely documentation of achievements and impacts, and draft/review project reports and communication materials. Quality assurance of reports from service providers and contractors is also a key responsibility. Maintaining proper filing and tracking of programme documents using corporate systems is essential. Assistance in developing information materials, conducting field visits to document best practices, and drafting case studies and success stories will be required. The role includes supporting the formulation of new project documents, providing coaching on corporate systems, and supporting new projects addressing the crisis in Gaza through collaboration and drafting concept notes. The incumbent may also cover the responsibilities of a Programme Analyst during leave and perform other related duties.

Work Experience

A minimum of one year of professional experience relevant to emergency and development projects, with a focus on programme support, is required. Experience with international organizations is desirable.

Skills

Key skills include results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing. Experience in programme/project formulation, implementation, and management is essential. Familiarity with the UN System and NGOs is desirable. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, the ability to work under pressure, and proficiency in computer and office software packages (e.g., MS Word, Excel) are necessary. Ability to travel across the West Bank and Gaza Strip and familiarity with the geographical region are also important.

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