Operation Specialist
Organizational Context
The FAO Representation in Madagascar (FRMAG) assists governments in developing policies, programs, and projects to achieve food security, reduce hunger, and promote sustainable agricultural, fisheries, and forestry sectors. Mauritius, a biodiversity hotspot, faces ecosystem pressures from land degradation, unsustainable practices, and climate change. As a Small Island Developing State, it is vulnerable to climate hazards, impacting agricultural production and economic resilience. The government is committed to nature-based solutions for sustainable development and food security, supported by FAO and GEF funding for a project focused on mainstreaming these solutions into land-use systems.
Job Purpose
The Project Operations Specialist will provide comprehensive operational support for the GCP/MAR/11254/GFF project, coordinating day-to-day activities in Mauritius. This role involves ensuring the effective planning, implementation, monitoring, and quality assurance of project operations, strictly adhering to FAO rules, procedures, and funding partner requirements. The incumbent will manage administrative, procurement, and logistical aspects, track financial commitments and utilization, and support the preparation and updating of work plans, procurement plans, and budgets. The specialist will also facilitate the mobilization of project inputs and contribute to reporting and risk mitigation.
Responsibilities
The Operations Specialist will serve as the focal point for project operational matters, coordinating daily administrative, procurement, and logistical activities for project implementation in Mauritius. Responsibilities include tracking and reporting on GEF grant financing and co-financing, supporting the preparation and updating of annual work plans, procurement plans, operational schedules, and budgets. The role involves monitoring project activity implementation against plans, budgets, and timelines, tracking expenditures, and identifying budget variances to support revisions and forecasts. The specialist will facilitate the timely mobilization of project inputs, including personnel, consultants, and equipment, and support procurement, recruitment, and contracting processes. They will prepare and follow up on operational instruments, assist in organizing project events, and contribute to progress and financial reports. Additionally, the incumbent will identify operational bottlenecks, propose corrective measures, monitor compliance with FAO policies, and support evaluation and audit missions.
Work Experience
A minimum of five years of relevant experience in project management, operations, and support is required. Experience in programme/project formulation, analysis, planning, and implementation is highly desirable. Work experience in multiple locations or areas, particularly in field positions, is an asset. Familiarity with UN administrative, operational, and financial procedures is also beneficial.
Skills
Key skills include Results Focus, Teamwork, Communication, Building Effective Relationships, and Knowledge Sharing. Essential functional skills involve experience in project planning, implementation, monitoring, and reporting. The ability to develop plans for project operations in developing countries, in partnership with UN agencies and stakeholders, is crucial. Understanding FAO policies and programmes is a strong asset, as is experience in supporting complex, multi-stakeholder projects. Familiarity with UN administrative, operational, and financial procedures is also advantageous.