National Grant Operation Specialist

Organizational Context

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is implementing the Climate Smart Agriculture Alternatives for Upland Production Systems in Lao PDR (CRA project), funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF). The project aims to enhance the resilience of vulnerable upland communities to climate change impacts through climate-smart agricultural practices. It involves collaboration with the Department of Land Administration and Management and operational partners like World Vision International Lao PDR, focusing on four districts in Northern Laos.

Job Purpose

The National Grant Operation Specialist will be responsible for designing, delivering, and institutionalizing the grant operation processes for Community-led Climate Resilient Investment packages (CRIPs), value chain piloting, and value chain investments within the CRA project. This role is crucial for managing cash grants provided to project beneficiaries, ensuring that all operational procedures align with FAO and GEF requirements and contribute to the project's overall objective of enhancing climate resilience in upland farming systems.

Responsibilities

Lead the development of the Grant Management Manual and Small Grant Selection Process, ensuring compliance with SOPs. Oversee the implementation and reporting of small grants and LoA-based activities, ensuring financial and narrative reports meet project and donor requirements. Consolidate partner and grant reports into the project's reporting system and ensure operational compliance with FAO and GEF. Serve as the national grant operation focal point for managing grant operations and LoA procurement. Facilitate the CRA Beneficiary Grant Technical Committee to finalize grant selection. Provide administrative and logistical support for the smooth implementation of the project's Grant Operational Manual. Coordinate and review operational arrangements through contractual agreements with key partners. Request decisions on grant awards and values, ensuring transparency and integrity. Assist in executing operational requirements for personnel, procurement, and disbursements. Perform other related duties as required.

Work Experience

Minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in facilitation, procurement, grant proposal design and delivery, or technical advisory services in agriculture, climate change, environment, climate finance, or development projects. Minimum of 5 years of experience facilitating agricultural and environmental project implementation for government institutions and development partners.

Skills

Strong organizational and administrative skills, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, proficiency in MS Office applications. Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with strong attention to detail and capacity to manage multiple tasks. Cultural sensitivity and ability to work in multicultural environments. Expertise in proposal design and delivery, knowledge management, coordination, and facilitation. Proven track record in grant operation proposal development and delivery, preferably in agriculture, climate resilience, and rural development. Knowledge of the Government of Lao PDR governance structure and experience with GEF project development and management, including safeguards and multi-stakeholder coordination.

Explore related opportunities