National Operations Specialist (SC8)

Organizational Setting

The key mission of the FAO Representation in Somalia, which is led by FAO Representative (FAOR), is to assist and support the national government to develop policies, strategies and programme aimed at accelerating the Implementation and achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the area of FAO's global mandate and Strategic Objectives. More specifically, FAO's response aims to address national needs and priorities in achieving food security, reducing hunger and malnutrition, developing agricultural, fishery and forestry sectors, and ensuring the sustainable use of environmental and natural resources and respond to recurrent emergencies. The current portfolio of activities of the FAO Representation in Somalia includes a wide scope of technical support interventions ranging from policy support through livestock and crop production, to natural resource management, Nutrition, value chain, food security analysis and water and land information management. FAO is also implementing several emergency, resilience-building, and development interventions, with the support of its five field offices and close to 400 staff in partnership with the Federal and State line ministries.

Reporting Lines

The position is under the overall supervision of the FAO Representative in Somalia and the direct supervision of the Fisheries Sector Coordinator.

Technical Focus

The incumbent will be responsible for managing and providing the full range of operational tasks in support of the fisheries sector projects and/or programme activities assigned to him/her in the related areas of work of the fisheries sector.

Tasks and responsibilities

• Act as focal point for all project operational matters and for the day-to-day running of the fisheries sector projects assigned to him/her. • Take overall responsibility over the corporate Project Cycle Management for those projects assigned to him/her. • Contribute to the preparation and/or assessment of new project as may be requested. • Review programme and project proposals for the purpose of operational clearance, with a view to assessing their operational feasibility. • Monitor and review the status of the programme/project implementation to ensure that all operational activities are carried out in line with the work plan and the project document; identify inconsistencies and delays and submit proposal on how to improve results and increase efficiency. • Ensure the timely provision of project inputs (personnel, technical support services, sub-contracts, training, equipment and supplies) directly by the Organization or, when appropriate, through contractors, and by liaising with the Support Units. • Coordinate the preparation of project work plans, monitor progress and, where necessary, identify corrective measures to overcome operational constraints. • Perform project budget monitoring and prepare FBA requests and revisions as required; maintain alerted the Project Task Force/s about budget expenditures and resources. • Coordinate timely preparation and submission of the Narrative and Financial Reports to the donor in line with the Funding Agreements and any other reports required by the organization. • Ensure the complete and quality of data and documentation, including in the FAO corporate and local systems (iMIS, FPMIS, GRMS, etc) for all assigned operational field projects/activities. • Ensure preparation of data and analytical reports on project performances, as required. • Coordinate action concerning the completion/closure of field projects and arrange for timely and adequate reporting, including identification of project follow- up requirements. • Perform other related duties as required.

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements

• University degree in project management, social sciences, business administration, international relations, or other relevant discipline from a reputable institution. • At least 3 years of relevant experience in the planning and implementation of development/emergency programmes, including the preparation, implementation, or monitoring of projects. • Working knowledge (level C) of English and Somali. • National of Somalia.

FAO Core Competencies

• Results Focus • Teamwork • Communication • Building Effective Relationships • Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement

Technical/Functional Skills

• Extent of experience in programme/project management and administration. • Extent of experience in Operational systems i.e., budget management, compliance, and general implementation plan. • Ability to communicate clearly and concisely both orally and in writing. • Ability to identify and resolve problems expeditiously and pragmatically. • Ability to be tactful, initiative, and make sound judgement. • Knowledge of and/or experience with the UN system. • Experience in project operations.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• FAO does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview meeting, processing)
• Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted
• Please note that FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from an institution accredited/recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED), a list updated by the International Association of Universities (IAU) / United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The list can be accessed at http://www.whed.net/
• For additional employment opportunities visit the FAO employment website: http://www.fao.org/employment/home/en/
• Appointment will be subject to certification that the candidate is medically fit for appointment, accreditation, any residency or visa requirements, and security clearances.