Veterinary Paraprofessional Project (VPP) Coordinator

Organizational Context

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency supporting 194 member states in over 130 countries. FAO aims to transform agrifood systems for greater efficiency, inclusivity, resilience, and sustainability, contributing to the 2030 Agenda. FAO Country Offices assist governments in developing policies and programs for food security, hunger reduction, and sustainable natural resource management. The FAO South Africa office is implementing a project to strengthen pandemic prevention and response through a One Health approach, focusing on surveillance, laboratory systems, and capacity building.

Job Purpose

The Veterinary Paraprofessional Project (VPP) Coordinator will support the project team in the timely reporting and implementation of the VPP component within the Pandemic Fund Project. This role is crucial for ensuring that project objectives and frameworks are met throughout the project lifecycle. The coordinator will be responsible for overseeing all activities aimed at enhancing the capacities of Animal Health Technicians (AHTs) as integral parts of the broader Pandemic Fund Project, contributing to improved animal health services and disease surveillance.

Responsibilities

The VPP Project Coordinator will be responsible for coordinating the design, implementation, and monitoring of all activities under the AHT component of the Pandemic Fund project, ensuring timely delivery within budget and escalating risks. This includes coordinating needs assessments and updating support requirements for AHT beneficiaries. The role involves developing and implementing a needs-based coaching and training program, and overseeing monthly progress monitoring of AHTs and their businesses. The coordinator will lead the procurement and distribution of starter kits for AHTs, ensuring compliance with FAO procedures. Responsibilities also include planning and coordinating workshops, training sessions, and stakeholder meetings, and participating in training initiatives focused on agribusiness skills. The role supports the integration of AHT activities into national animal health systems for disease prevention and control, particularly in zoonotic and transboundary disease surveillance. The coordinator will conduct monitoring and evaluation, prepare high-quality project reports and work plans, and develop communication materials documenting best practices and success stories.

Work Experience

A minimum of 5 years of working experience in the animal health discipline. Experience in project coordination and implementation within the agricultural or animal health sectors is essential. Familiarity with FAO procedures and donor requirements is advantageous.

Skills

Strong project management skills, including planning, implementation, monitoring, and reporting. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective stakeholder engagement and team collaboration. Proficiency in developing and delivering training programs and coaching. Knowledge of agribusiness principles and entrepreneurship support. Ability to conduct needs assessments and monitor progress. Familiarity with corporate computerized financial systems, administrative procedures, and organizational structure. Strong report writing and documentation skills. Proficiency in data analysis and project management software is desirable.

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