Junior Programme Support Specialist
Support regional programme coordination and planning processes.
Overview
Support regional programme coordination and planning processes.
You have:
- Advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)\/UNESCO in social, economic, agricultural, environmental sciences or any other discipline relevant to the work of the Organization.
- One year of relevant experience in support to coordinating, monitoring and reporting of multi-disciplinary activities in international and\/or technical organizations.
- Working knowledge of English. Knowledge of Russian would be considered an asset.
Organizational Setting
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) contributes to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda through the FAO Strategic Framework by supporting the transformation to MORE efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable agrifood systems, for better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life, leaving no one behind.
FAO’s commitment to environmental sustainability is integral to its strategic objectives and operations.
The Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia (REU) is responsible for developing, promoting and leading FAO’s response to regional priorities for food security, agriculture and rural development through the identification, planning and implementation of FAO’s priority activities in the region. REU also advises on the incorporation of regional priorities into the Organization’s Programme of Work and Budget and implements approved programmes and projects in the region, monitors the level of programme implementation and draws attention to problems and deficiencies. REU supports regional policy dialogue on food security, agriculture and rural development issues, facilitates the emergence of regional partnerships, and supports capacity development and resource mobilization for food security, agriculture and rural development in the region. REU is managing also national programmes and projects in countries of the region.
The position is located in the Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia (REU) in Budapest, Hungary.
Reporting Lines
The Junior Programme Support Specialist reports to the Programme Coordination and Planning Officer.
Technical Focus
Support in planning, implementation, monitoring and reporting of regional work programme, including coordination and operational assistance.
Tasks and responsibilities
Under the overall supervision of the Deputy Regional Representative/Regional Programme Leader for Europe and Central Asia, and the direct supervision of the Programme Coordination and Planning Officer, in close collaboration with technical officers in the Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia and with the other team members of the Deputy Regional Representative/Regional Programme Leader Office, the consultant will assist in programme coordination, implementation support, as well as planning, monitoring and reporting of the regional work programme. Specifically:
• Support the regional planning process, including the formulation and review of the Regional Work Programme and contribution to the corporate planning exercise; • Support regional programme coordination including implementation of FAO Strategic Framework in the region; • Support budget management of the regional work programme by preparing reports as requested and using FAO systems (FPMIS, GRMS, IMIS). • Contribute to the regional output level monitoring and corporate year-end reporting exercises, including advisory services to countries; • Prepare background documents and reports as requested, by using FAO systems. • Provide logistical and administrative support in the organization of meetings, events, workshops etc.; prepare and distribute meeting minutes when required. • Any other related activities, as required.
CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING
Minimum Requirements
• Advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in social, economic, agricultural, environmental sciences or any other discipline relevant to the work of the Organization. A first level degree with 2 years of additional experience may be considered as equivalent. • One year of relevant experience in support to coordinating, monitoring and reporting of multi-disciplinary activities in international and/or technical organizations. • Working knowledge of English. Knowledge of Russian would be considered an asset.
FAO Core Competencies
• Results Focus • Teamwork • Communication • Building Effective Relationships • Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement
Technical/Functional Skills
• Work experience in more than one location or area of work, particularly in field positions is desirable • Extent and relevance of experience in supporting programme planning or project proposal development • Extent and relevance of experience in assisting in programme/project coordination and implementation • Extend and relevance of experience in supporting programme/project monitoring and reporting • Demonstrated understanding of the purpose and functions of the technical programme, operational guidelines and project/programme management procedures, preferably those adopted by the United Nations or FAO
Potential interview questions
| Can you describe your experience in supporting programme planning and project coordination? | The interviewer wants to know about your practical experience in this area which is crucial for the job. | Highlight specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your capability. |
| How do you ensure effective communication in a multidisciplinary team? | Communication skills are vital for teamwork and success in this role. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| What strategies have you used for monitoring and reporting on programme outcomes? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| Can you give an example of how you've handled budget management in a previous role? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| What steps do you take to prepare for organizing events or workshops? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| How do you approach the formulation and review of work programmes? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| Discuss a time you contributed to a team project that involved multiple stakeholders. | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| What do you understand about FAO's Strategic Framework and how would you apply it in your work? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |