Organizational Setting

The FAO has been in existence since its founding in 1945, making it one of the oldest specialized agencies of the United Nations. FAO Indonesia serves as a vital force in the nation's agricultural development, committed to sustainability and food security. From more than 45 years operations, The FAO in Cabo verde focuses on enhancing agricultural productivity and food security through sustainable farming practices and improved access to resources. The institution collaborates with government agencies and local communities to promote resilience to natural disasters and climate change in the agriculture sector. Additionally, the FAO supports policies and capacity-building initiatives aimed at achieving long-term sustainable development and poverty reduction in Cabo Verde.

Reporting Lines

The National Operations Specialist will work under the overall supervision of the FAO Representative in Cabo Verde and the direct supervision of the Assistant FAO Representative (Programme).

Technical Focus

The consultant supports the work of the AFAOR (Programme) in the management and implementation of the following activities:
•     Preparation and regular updating of procurement plans for goods, services and human resources. 
•     Support timely implementation and monitoring of Letters of Agreement (LoAs). 
•     Preparation and monitoring of monthly financial implementation reports. 
•     Maintenance and regular updating of project data and documentation in FPMIS.

Tasks and responsibilities

The National Operations Specialist will cover the projects and activities of the country office, with a particular focus on GEF projects. Their tasks and responsibilities include:

•     Support the operational management and monitoring of projects implemented by the FAO Representation.
•     Act as focal point for day to day operational matters related to assigned field projects, in coordination with programme, technical and administrative units.
•     Assist in the planning of project activities, in collaboration with relevant support services, including the use of tools to monitor outputs and indicators.
•     Ensure the timely delivery of project inputs, including personnel, technical services, subcontracts, training activities, equipment and supplies, in line with approved work plans.
•     Perform operational tasks related to procurement processes, including preparation of procurement documentation, issuance of tenders and purchase orders, evaluation of bids, follow up with suppliers, participation in bid opening panels, and preparation of simple contract amendments or renewals, under the guidance of the supervisor and in accordance with FAO procurement rules.
•     Monitor the status of procurement actions and contracts, ensuring timely follow up and compliance with established procedures.
•     Review and monitor project budgets and forecasts, including monthly, quarterly, semi annual and annual budgets, ensuring alignment with approved work plans.
•     Participate in the preparation and monitoring of project work plans, and propose corrective measures to address operational bottlenecks or delays.
•     Support the monitoring and management of project disbursements, accounting records, and financial documentation, in compliance with FAO financial rules.
•     Support to FAO’s monitoring and oversight of Operational Partners under GEF funded projects, ensuring compliance with the Operational Partner Agreement, project documents, approved work plans, Risk Mitigation and Assurance Plans, co financing arrangements, and FAO and GEF rules and procedures
•     Facilitate and support field missions, including operational, administrative, and logistical arrangements, and follow up on mission findings and recommendations, as required.
•     Ensure compliance with administrative, operational, and legal procedures related to procurement, recruitment, and contract administration.
•     Ensure the quality, accuracy, and completeness of project data and documentation in FPMIS for pipeline and ongoing projects.
•     Provide support to administrative and logistical arrangements for meetings, workshops, training activities, and missions.
•     Perform other related tasks as needed.

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements

•     Advanced university degree in business or any of the following: public administration, project management, finance or a related field with at least three years of relevant experience in the areas of project management, budget or finance.
OR
•     University degree in business or any of the following: public administration, project management, finance or a related field with at least five years of relevant experience in the areas of project management, budget or finance.
•     Level C proficiency in the official working language used by FAO for communication with the country (French or English). 
•     Working knowledge of Portuguese.
•     National of Cabo Verde.

FAO Core Competencies

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

Technical/Functional Skills

•     A demonstrated understanding of the objectives and functions of technical programmes, operational guidelines, and programme/project management procedures, preferably those adopted by the United Nations or FAO, would be considered an asset. 
•     Demonstrated experience in programme and project management in the context of Cabo Verde.
•     Extent and relevance of experience in budgetary planning, budget management and financial reporting.
•     Work experience in more than one location or area of work is desirable.
•     Proven skills in coordination and report writing.
•     Ability to work under pressure and strong interpersonal skills.
 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION