National Project Coordinator

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.

The main aim of the FAO country offices, which are headed by an FAO Representative, is to assist governments to develop policies, programmes and projects to achieve food security and to reduce hunger and malnutrition, to help develop the agricultural, fisheries and forestry sectors, and to use their environmental and natural resources in a sustainable manner.

FAO in collaboration with the research department of the Ministry of Agriculture [ZARI] and the University of Zambia is implementing a 4-year project, titled, “Soil mapping for resilient agrifood systems in Central America and sub-Saharan Africa” (SoilFER). The project is funded by the government of the United States of America, and has 5 beneficiary countries [ie. Zambia, Kenya, Ghana, Honduras and Guatemala]. Therefore, the successful candidate will need to coordinate implementation of the SoilFER project in Zambia, over the 4-year period, on an annually renewed and performance-based contract.

Reporting Lines

Under the overall supervision of the FAO Country Representative, and the guidance of the Assistant FAOR – Programmes, in coordination with the project LTO and project Lead Technical Unit (NSL).

Technical Focus

The National Project Coordinator will lead the Soil mapping for resilient agrifood systems in Central America and sub-Saharan Africa (SoilFER) project in Zambia, as well as facilitate the effective and timely implementation of activities on the project. The National Project Coordinator will work under the direct supervision of the AFAOR-P and the SoilFER Project Manager at FAO-HQ.

Tasks and Responsibilities

• Provide overall leadership and direction for the Soil mapping for resilient agrifood systems in Central America and sub-Saharan Africa (SoilFER) project in Zambia, ensuring that project goals, objectives, and milestones are met in a timely and efficient manner.
• Liaise and report to FAO HQ project task force and coordinate project activities, supervise and work closely with national consultants.
• Provide the day-to-day management of the project for effective project activity implementation at field level including budget tracking.
• Support the development and implementation of project work plans, budgets, and monitoring and evaluation plans, in accordance with project guidelines.
• Monitor project progress and prepare regular progress reports for FAO HQ project task force, ensuring that project activities are aligned with project objectives and deliverables.
• Involve all relevant stakeholders and ensure effective communication and coordination with all project stakeholders, including government agencies, local communities, NGOs, and other partners.
• Ensure compliance with FAO Project Cycle, project policies and procedures, and local laws and regulations.
• Represent the project at national and regional meetings, conferences, and other events.
• Perform any other duties as assigned in the Representation.

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements

• University Degree in Project Management, Agriculture/Soil Science, Environmental/Natural Resources Management, Monitoring and Evaluation, or any related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in project coordination or overseeing the implementation of projects.
• Working knowledge of English.
• National of Zambia.

FAO Core Competencies

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

Technical/Functional Skills

• Knowledge of socio-economic issues in agriculture/ food sector and food security.
• Knowledge of policy and governance issues.
• Experience with planning and coordination of national surveys and the collection of data meant to inform decision making.

Selection Criteria

• Prior experience working with FAO or any UN agency.
• Prior experience coordinating or working on a US-funded project.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION