Programme Officer (Disaster Risk Reduction and Early Warning)
Organizational Context
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a UN-related agency promoting humane and orderly migration. The IOM Coordination Office for the South Pacific (COSP), based in Suva, Fiji, leads and supports IOM operations across the sub-region. This Programme Officer role sits within COSP, focusing on disaster risk reduction and early warning initiatives.
Job Purpose
The Programme Officer (Disaster Risk Reduction and Early Warning) is responsible for implementing the "Project for Enhancing Evacuation Centers and Early Warning Systems in Pacific Island Countries" and overseeing disaster risk reduction and preparedness activities in Fiji, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu. The role involves developing, planning, implementing, and monitoring programs to strengthen national and community capacities to manage disaster and displacement risks. Working under the Chief of Mission, the incumbent provides programme management, technical guidance, and oversight to ensure quality implementation, compliance, partnership engagement, and achievement of results in disaster risk reduction, preparedness, and early warning initiatives.
Responsibilities
Oversee the development and implementation of the "Project for Enhancing Evacuation Centers and Early Warning Systems in Pacific Island Countries" and other DRR initiatives, managing administrative, operational, technical, and financial aspects. Provide technical leadership and guidance for DRR, preparedness, early warning systems, and disaster displacement programming. Lead the planning and execution of programme activities, including capacity building, community preparedness, and stakeholder engagement. Cultivate and expand relationships with government counterparts, UN agencies, NGOs, and donors to ensure effective programme implementation and sustainability. Identify programme priorities, contribute to the design of new projects, and ensure alignment with results frameworks and donor requirements. Ensure timely and quality reporting, coordinate programme updates for stakeholders, and monitor progress against strategic objectives and benchmarks. Supervise and mentor programme staff, ensuring their capacity building and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures. Undertake national and international travel as required for programme coordination and support.
Work Experience
Experience in programme conceptualization, development, implementation, monitoring, reporting, and evaluation. Proven experience managing DRR, early warning, preparedness, and emergency response projects. Experience in programme development, capacity building, and liaising with governmental and international institutions. Familiarity with financial administration and a sound understanding of DRR and disaster displacement issues in the region are required.
Skills
Proven ability to establish and maintain strong working relations with government counterparts and international organizations. Excellent leadership, coordination, and information management skills. Knowledge of DRR, early warning systems, and preparedness issues in the Pacific region. Strong conceptualization, analytical, and writing skills. Effective communication, organizational, and interpersonal relationship skills. Ability to meet deadlines and work under pressure.