National Project Coordinator (NPC)

Organizational Context

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in Zambia supports the transformation to efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems, aligning with the 2030 Agenda and the FAO Strategic Framework. FAO country offices assist governments in developing policies and programs to achieve food security, reduce hunger, and promote sustainable use of natural resources. This role primarily contributes to the "Inclusive Green Growth and Environmental Sustainability" priority area of the Zambia Country Programming Framework, specifically supporting the "Sustainable Fish Value Chains for Landlocked Developing Countries (SVC4LLDCs)" project.

Job Purpose

The National Project Coordinator (NPC) will provide essential technical and operational support for FAO's value chain activities, focusing on the SVC4LLDCs project in Zambia. This role involves overseeing project management, conducting value chain analysis, and providing strategic leadership to ensure the successful implementation of project objectives. The incumbent will be responsible for the reporting and control of both operational and technical execution, ensuring alignment with FAO's strategic goals and the project's specific aims to enhance the social, economic, and environmental viability of aquatic food systems.

Responsibilities

The National Project Coordinator (NPC) will technically support the implementation of the project workplan, coordinating the planning, design, and execution of activities to ensure timely delivery of outputs. Responsibilities include reviewing and finalizing project reports, identifying, recruiting, and managing project partners, and maintaining strong linkages with beneficiaries and stakeholders. The NPC will monitor and evaluate project activities, contribute to information product development, and prepare detailed reports for the Project Management Unit. Key tasks involve executing the annual country work plan and budget, supporting value chain analysis and development, and leading the establishment and coordination of a multi-stakeholder platform. The role also includes developing partnerships, collaborating with consultants, analyzing progress reports, coordinating knowledge sharing, overseeing the communication strategy, and leading regular monitoring and evaluation of the program.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of progressively responsible professional experience is required in the implementation and coordination of value chain development activities related to fisheries, aquaculture, agriculture, forestry, or natural resources. Demonstrated experience in managing donor-funded development projects, including work planning, budgeting, implementation, monitoring, reporting, and stakeholder coordination, is essential. Experience in supporting and monitoring value chain analysis (VCA) and development activities is also required.

Skills

The role requires strong knowledge of fisheries value chains and market systems, with a sound understanding of sustainable aquatic food systems and rural livelihoods. Proven experience in project planning, implementation, coordination, and management is essential, along with knowledge of value chain analysis methodologies and upgrading approaches. Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills are necessary, as is the ability to prepare high-quality technical reports and donor reports. Experience in facilitating multi-stakeholder dialogue, partnership development, and monitoring and evaluation frameworks is crucial. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite is required. Familiarity with FAO operational procedures is desirable. Excellent interpersonal, negotiation, and communication skills are vital for success in this role.

Explore related opportunities