Operations Specialist

Organizational Context

The Regional Office for the Near East and North Africa (RNE) spearheads FAO's efforts in transforming agrifood systems to achieve Sustainable Development Goals. It identifies regional priorities for food security, agriculture, and rural development, ensuring the strategic implementation of FAO's response through a multidisciplinary approach. RNE facilitates regional policy dialogues, partnerships, knowledge exchange, capacity development, and resource mobilization, while maintaining relations with regional institutions. The Finance Unit supports effective programme and operations implementation through sound financial stewardship, accurate transaction processing, budget monitoring, and adherence to FAO's financial policies.

Job Purpose

The Operations Specialist will provide essential operational management support to RNE initiatives. This involves effective coordination of activities, diligent monitoring of implementation processes, and comprehensive support throughout the project cycle. The role includes facilitating robust reporting mechanisms and fostering seamless operational linkages between administrative and technical teams. The specialist will ensure that all operational aspects align with FAO's procedures, internal controls, and risk management measures, contributing to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of RNE's programmes and projects in the region.

Responsibilities

Support the daily operational aspects of RNE projects across their entire lifecycle, adhering strictly to FAO operational procedures, internal control requirements, and risk management strategies, and incorporating audit recommendations. Provide operational assistance in preparing, reviewing, and processing project documentation, implementation plans, and related records, ensuring full compliance with policies and procedures. Monitor operational processes and activities to enhance oversight, mitigate risks, and support the implementation of audit recommendations. Assist in drafting reports, briefs, presentations, and other necessary documentation. Collect, compile, and analyze information and data to aid decision-making and reporting. Coordinate effectively among technical units, administrative services, and stakeholders to ensure compliance with operational procedures and risk mitigation. Support the organization of meetings, workshops, and missions. Liaise with FAO technical units, country offices, and headquarters to facilitate operational coordination and compliance. Maintain and update monitoring tools, databases, and information systems. Assist in preparing correspondence with partners and stakeholders. Identify operational challenges and propose recommendations for process improvements, focusing on internal controls and risk management.

Work Experience

A minimum of one year of relevant professional experience in programme/project management, operations, or coordination is required. Experience in supporting programme or project implementation, monitoring, and reporting is also necessary. Proficiency in standard office software applications is expected. Experience within the UN system or international organizations is considered an asset.

Skills

Key competencies include Results Focus, Teamwork, Communication, Building Effective Relationships, and Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement. Essential skills involve supporting programme/project implementation, monitoring, and reporting; preparing project documents and reports; strong organizational abilities for managing multiple tasks; analytical skills for identifying issues and solutions; experience with multidisciplinary teams in an international setting; and good coordination skills. Proficiency in standard office software is required. Familiarity with FAO procedures and systems is desirable.

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