National Programme Specialist

Organizational Context

The FAO Subregional Office for the Pacific Islands (SAP), established in 1996 in Samoa, coordinates FAO's work across 13 member countries and one Associate Member in the Pacific. SAP develops, implements, and oversees programmes addressing food security, nutrition, agriculture, and rural development. As part of FAO's evolving decentralized operating model, SAP is enhancing its country-level engagement in Kiribati through improved coordination, resource pooling, and targeted technical support, aiming for effective programme delivery aligned with national and regional priorities.

Job Purpose

This role contributes to strengthening FAO's country-level presence in Kiribati by enhancing cross-country coordination and supporting adaptive programme delivery. The Specialist will ensure alignment with the UNSDCF, CPF priorities, and FAO’s Strategic Framework. A key aspect of the role is integrating programme, operations, and resource mobilization functions to facilitate efficient and scalable delivery of FAO’s expanding portfolio, thereby supporting the transformation of national agrifood systems and reinforcing FAO's decentralized network.

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary focal point for programme coordination and implementation in Kiribati, ensuring alignment with national priorities, FAO's Strategic Framework, CPF, and UNSDCF. Provide technical support to government counterparts, UN agencies, and regional organizations to facilitate effective programme delivery. Engage with national stakeholders to identify priority areas for FAO support, including pipeline development for TCP and partner-funded initiatives. Coordinate and support the implementation of ongoing agriculture, food security, and emergency projects, ensuring adherence to national priorities and UN/FAO frameworks. Manage adaptive, portfolio-based programme implementation based on evolving country needs and resources, in coordination with SAP and RAP. Lead resource mobilization efforts and partnership development to strengthen FAO's response capacity. Prepare and present project concept notes and proposals for donor funding. Liaise with FAO technical units and operations teams to ensure project quality, efficiency, and compliance. Support the efficient utilization of technical, operational, and financial resources for enhanced delivery. Coordinate and organize visibility events, such as World Food Day, and contribute to communication materials. Ensure timely provision of information for monitoring and reporting tools, maintaining data accuracy. Oversee a complex project portfolio, ensuring compliance with FAO standards and effective risk management. Support assessments and provide inputs for monitoring and evaluation of FAO interventions. Assist senior colleagues in strengthening coordination with national counterparts and partners for effective project implementation and capacity development.

Work Experience

Three years of relevant experience in programme/project management, policy analysis (agriculture, food security, rural development), and monitoring & evaluation.

Skills

Proficiency in Results Focus, Teamwork, Communication, Building Effective Relationships, and Knowledge Sharing. Expertise in climate change adaptation/mitigation, sustainable development, climate risk/vulnerability assessment, and policy/strategic planning. Strong analytical and report writing skills, with excellent language proficiency. Experience in developing capacity building materials, conducting health vulnerability assessments, and working with communities on climate resilience. Proven experience working with governments, NGOs, or UN agencies.

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