Organizational Setting

The Regional Office for the Near East and North Africa (RNE) leads FAO's support to countries in the region in transforming their agrifood systems to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It identifies regional priorities for food security, agriculture and rural development and ensures the planning and implementation of FAO's strategic response in the region through a multidisciplinary approach. It implements approved programmes and projects, monitors programme implementation and ensures that they contribute to addressing regional priorities. RNE also advises on the incorporation of regional priorities into the FAO Strategic Framework and Programme of Work and Budget.

Reporting Lines

The Country Office Administration Support will report directly to the Senior Administrative Officer, RNE.

Technical Focus

The assignment focuses on providing administrative coordination and support to Subregional Offices (SROs) and Country Offices (COs) in support of programme and project implementation. The incumbent will ensure the timely coordination, documentation, monitoring, and follow-up of administrative processes in line with FAO rules, procedures, and approved work plans

The incumbent will work as the administrative support to the SROs and COs as part of a multidisciplinary team to manage day-to-day operational work required in line with programme activities. He/she will maintain close coordination with Senior Administrative Officer and RPL and other managers for smooth implementation.

Tasks and responsibilities

•     Provide advisory support to Subregional and Country Offices on the interpretation and application of FAO administrative, financial and operational rules, procedures and best practices.
•     Support the development, review and standardization of administrative tools, workflows, templates and internal guidance to strengthen operational effectiveness across SROs and COs.
•     Prepare analytical reports, dashboards and management briefs on administrative performance, delivery status, and operational trends to support decision-making.
•     Ensure timely delivery of the necessary inputs and timely implementation of activities, consistent with the planned project work plans, detailed field activity plans. 
•     Coordinate administratively with procurement, logistics, and other relevant units to facilitate information sharing and operational preparedness for emergency response and other activities.
•     Participate in team planning meetings and provide administrative inputs.
•     Coordinate with Operations staff and discuss day-to-day operational aspects of emergency response projects and programmes in accordance with the project management cycle in consultation with relevant unit
•     Support the administrative updating and tracking of progress of the Admin plans on a quarterly basis, and follow up on requisition status and timelines with relevant units to support alignment with project work plans.
•     Regularly monitor and update administration budget expenditures and available resources in consultation with relevant responsible unit
•     Participate in the administrative activities and report preparation as assigned by the supervisor. 
•     Contribute to the preparation of progress reports and prepare relevant briefings as required. 
•     Support the administrative processing, tracking, and follow-up of implementation of Letters of Agreements in close coordination with assigned project managers, including monitoring timelines for amendments, extensions, and closure.

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, business administration, accounting or related field; Consultants with a bachelor's degree need two additional years of relevant professional experience.
     For PSAs:
University degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in management, business administration, accounting or related field.
•     At least 5 years of relevant experience in administrative support, financial record management, or related office administration functions.
•     Working knowledge of English (Level C).

FAO Core Competencies

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