Project Coordinator
Organizational Context
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in Zambia, through its Country Programming Framework, supports the transformation to efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems. The FAO Representation assists the government in developing policies and projects for food security, nutrition, and sustainable resource management. This role contributes to the priority area of Inclusive Green Growth and Environmental Sustainability, specifically within the "Sustainable Fish Value Chains for Landlocked Developing Countries (SVC4LLDCs)" project funded by the Republic of Korea.
Job Purpose
The Project Coordinator will provide technical and operational support for the "Sustainable Fish Value Chains for Landlocked Developing Countries (SVC4LLDCs)" project in Zambia. This involves managing project activities, analyzing value chains, and ensuring the effective implementation of work plans and deliverables. The role requires strategic leadership in coordinating project execution, reporting on progress, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders to achieve project objectives related to sustainable aquatic food systems and improved livelihoods. The incumbent will contribute to the project's aim of catalyzing sustainable aquatic value chains.
Responsibilities
The Project Coordinator 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 role involves monitoring and evaluating project activities, contributing to information product development, and preparing comprehensive reports for the Project Management Unit. The Coordinator will manage the annual country work plan and budget, oversee value chain analysis and development activities, and lead the establishment and coordination of a multi-stakeholder platform. Collaboration with consultants, analysis of progress reports, and coordination of knowledge sharing are key. The position also entails overseeing the communication strategy, leading monitoring and evaluation efforts, and performing other duties as required.
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. Experience in managing donor-funded development projects, including work planning, budgeting, implementation, monitoring, reporting, and stakeholder coordination, is essential. Demonstrated experience in supporting and monitoring value chain analysis and development activities, and working with government institutions, producer organizations, the private sector, research institutions, and development partners 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 and excellent interpersonal, negotiation, and communication skills are required. Familiarity with FAO operational procedures is desirable.