Head, Policy & Technical Services

Organizational Context

The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world's largest humanitarian organization, dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and building pathways to peace and prosperity through food assistance. WFP operates globally, assisting people affected by conflict, disasters, and climate change. The organization values diversity, inclusion, and professional development, fostering a high-performing, multicultural workforce committed to its mission.

Job Purpose

The Head, Policy & Technical Services will lead and coordinate the Policy & Technical Services Department within the African Risk Capacity (ARC) Agency Secretariat. This role is crucial for ensuring ARC has the resources to fulfill its mandate and implement its programs effectively. The Head will oversee the development and execution of a comprehensive fundraising strategy, cultivate partnerships with regional and international bodies, and facilitate knowledge transfer. Key responsibilities include leading a team to provide expert advice on partnerships, influencing disaster risk management policies, and advocating for ARC's work. The position also involves refining standard operating procedures, contributing to risk management, and overseeing resource mobilization efforts to secure sustainable funding. Additionally, the Head will manage a portfolio of partnerships, represent ARC in international forums, and lead knowledge management initiatives to position ARC as a thought leader in disaster risk management and financing across Africa.

Responsibilities

The Head of Policy & Technical Services is responsible for leading the design and implementation of departmental strategies and work plans, focusing on identifying, developing, and maintaining key partnerships. This role spearheads efforts to create an enabling environment for Disaster Risk Management and Financing at various levels, influencing policies and regulations through strategic collaborations. The position involves identifying opportunities for senior management, streamlining service delivery by capitalizing on synergies across work streams, and refining standard operating procedures while codifying organizational experiences. A significant aspect of the role is resource mobilization, overseeing the development and reshaping of a comprehensive fundraising strategy to secure sustainable funding from diverse sources. Furthermore, the Head manages a portfolio of partnerships with international bodies, ensuring alignment with the organization's work program and strengthening in-country initiatives. This includes representing the organization in international forums, compiling briefing documents, and providing strategic advice. The role also leads knowledge management efforts, providing strategic guidance and technical support to position the organization as a thought leader in Disaster Risk Management and Financing. This involves overseeing the production of evidence-based information, leading the development of publications, promoting knowledge sharing, and implementing lessons learned to drive continuous improvement and establish the organization as a standard-setting agency. The position also supervises the design and deployment of training programs, including an online portal.

Work Experience

Requires ten years of progressively responsible professional experience in a technically related area within a multicultural or national organization supporting a global scope. Demonstrated managerial and professional competence is essential, including experience in public affairs strategy, advisory roles at high government levels, large-scale economic development, and Africa-related agricultural or insurance development. Must possess firm knowledge of the Agency’s mandate, structure, and work program, along with proven intellectual, managerial, and technical leadership in relevant areas.

Skills

Disaster Risk Management, Policy Development, Partnership Building, Resource Mobilization, Knowledge Management, Technical Advisory, Team Leadership, Communication, Strategic Planning, Financial Management

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