International Operations Specialist
Organizational Context
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency dedicated to eradicating hunger and promoting food security globally, aligning with the 2030 Agenda. Its Strategic Framework aims to transform agri-food systems for greater efficiency, inclusivity, resilience, and sustainability, ultimately improving production, nutrition, the environment, and lives. The FAO Subregional Office for the Pacific Islands (SAP) offers crucial policy, technical, programme, and operational support to Pacific Island nations, managing diverse projects in areas like fisheries, forestry, climate resilience, and food security.
Job Purpose
The Operations Specialist will be responsible for comprehensive operational support to assigned projects and programme activities within the FAO Fiji Office. This role encompasses strategic operational planning, effective implementation support, diligent budget monitoring, and coordination of procurement and human resources. Key functions include meticulous project monitoring and reporting, proactive risk management, ensuring compliance with FAO regulations, developing operational capacities, and fostering strong liaison with government entities and implementing partners to ensure successful project delivery and achievement of objectives.
Responsibilities
The Operations Specialist will serve as the primary operational focal point for assigned project activities, coordinating daily implementation and promptly addressing operational constraints and risks with proposed solutions. Responsibilities include supporting the preparation and updating of project work plans, operational plans, procurement plans, and delivery forecasts, ensuring alignment with project documents and timelines. The role involves monitoring project implementation, milestones, indicators, delivery, commitments, and expenditures, identifying and recommending corrective actions for any slippage or bottlenecks. The specialist will review project budgets, identify irregular charges, support budget revisions, and contribute to financial closure. Coordination of timely project inputs, including personnel, services, travel, contracts, and supplies, is essential. Support for recruitment processes, preparation of procurement documentation, participation in review committees, and follow-up on procurement actions are also key duties. The role includes reviewing and recommending improvements to operational processes, preparing and coordinating project governance meetings, and supporting the timely submission of project reports. Maintaining accurate project information in FAO systems, preparing analytical updates, liaising with stakeholders on operational matters, facilitating payments, and providing operational guidance and training to project personnel are critical functions. Undertaking operational support missions and performing other related duties as required are also part of the role.
Work Experience
A minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in project/programme management, operations, or financial management is required. Familiarity with FAO rules, procedures, and systems is considered an asset.
Skills
Key competencies include Results Focus, Teamwork, Communication, Building Effective Relationships, and Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement. The ability to manage operational aspects of projects, monitor budgets, coordinate procurement and HR, and liaise effectively with diverse stakeholders is essential.