Programme Support Specialist

Provide programme support and coordination to IT Strategic Sourcing, Planning & Control group operations.

FAO - Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

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Application deadline in 10 days: Thursday 2 Jul 2026 at 21:59 UTC

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Overview

Provide programme support and coordination to IT Strategic Sourcing, Planning & Control group operations.

You have:

  • Advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in Management, Law, Social science, International relations or closely related discipline; Consultants with a bachelor's degree need two additional years of relevant professional experience.
  • At least 3 years of relevant experience in programme support, administrative and/or ICT Contracts area
  • Working knowledge (level C) of English, French or Spanish

Organizational Setting

The Information Technology Division (CSI) is responsible for all IT activities within the Organization. CSI performs on behalf of the Organization the following critical roles: defining FAO IT policies and providing strategic advice on IT architecture and standards, governance, policy and operational matters while monitoring organizational compliance; defining the mechanisms for managing FAO's information and data; protecting FAO's information assets and ensuring confidentiality, integrity and availability; ensuring provision of IT services that are core for the Organization's global operations and supporting the information and business processes; coordinating organization-wide IT activities in order to reduce duplication and fragmentation and to increase integration of information data, systems and platforms, mobilizing IT resources from across the Organization.

Reporting Lines

Under the direct supervision of the Information Technology Officer (IT Strategic Sourcing, Planning & Control group), the incumbent will act as Programme Support Specialist.

Technical Focus

The incumbent will provide programme support and, where needed, coordination to the operations of the IT Strategic Sourcing, Planning & Control group of the IT Division.

Tasks and responsibilities

• Provide timely and efficient operations, budget and administration support to the implementation of programme and projects activities, coordinating the activities in this area • Develop financial statements functional to management meetings allowing strategic decisions, , suggesting possible improvements where needed • Coordinate the Annual internal financial planning exercise, in close collaboration with the related ITSSPC Officer • Assist related ITSSPC officer in the preparation of periodic and ad hoc financial reports • Coordinate the development and update of reports covering all IT Planning and Control group areas and important reviews of the internal financial system, both using also Powerbi tool • Implement effective internal control mechanisms to ensure adequate performance of a client-oriented financial management system • Support in handling procurement activities and processes in line with divisional and organizational needs • Monitor projects plans, delivery and resource schedules • Coordinate internal financial activities, accounting adjustments and back-charges as necessary, review payment requests and invoices from suppliers • Provide reports on the administrative activities performed • Actively contribute to service definitions and internal process and procedures improvements • Liaise with relevant collaborating departments on matters related to contracts, payments and financial activities • Contribute to other programme support, financial related and sourcing processes • Perform any other duties as required.

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements

• For Consultants: Advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in Management, Law, Social science, International relations or closely related discipline; Consultants with a bachelor's degree need two additional years of relevant professional experience. For PSAs: University degree or relevant professional experience in Management, Law, Social science, International relations or closely related discipline. • At least 3 years of relevant experience in programme support, administrative and/or ICT Contracts area • Working knowledge (level C) of English, French or Spanish

FAO Core Competencies

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

Technical/Functional Skills

• Experience and knowledge in programme support, administration and financial support area • Experience and knowledge in ICT area is an asset • Experience in an international/ multicultural organization is desirable • Knowledge of FAO Administrative and Financial Rules is desirable • Knowledge of FAO associated tools (e.g. GRMS, iMIS) is desirable • Knowledge of Ms Excel and Powerbi is a strong asset • Relevant experience in similar support related position • Knowledge of one of the other FAO official languages is an asset

Potential interview questions

Describe a time when you had to manage multiple financial reports at once. How did you ensure accuracy and timeliness? To assess your ability to handle administrative and financial tasks effectively. Mention specific organizational and time management strategies you employed.
Can you give an example of a successful project you coordinated and how you contributed to its success? This question aims to evaluate your project coordination skills and teamwork. Pro members can see the explanation.
Tell us about your experience with ICT contracts. How have you ensured compliance and efficiency? Pro members can see the explanation. Pro members can see the explanation.
How do you approach internal communication when coordinating with different departments? Pro members can see the explanation. Pro members can see the explanation.
What strategies do you use to monitor project delivery and resource schedules? Pro members can see the explanation. Pro members can see the explanation.
Describe a situation where you identified a need for improvement in financial processes. What actions did you take? Pro members can see the explanation. Pro members can see the explanation.
What is your experience with Powerbi and how have you used it in your previous roles? Pro members can see the explanation. Pro members can see the explanation.
Can you discuss a time when you had to liaise with multiple stakeholders to address a financial issue? Pro members can see the explanation. Pro members can see the explanation.
Added 3 days ago - Updated 8 hours ago - Source: fao.org