Operations Specialist

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is seeking a qualified professional to manage and provide operational support for field projects and programme activities based in Quetta, Pakistan. This position is initially for one year, with the possibility of extension depending on performance and funding availability. The role involves overseeing a broad range of operational tasks to ensure effective project implementation in line with FAO’s strategic goals. This position supports FAO’s mission to promote sustainable agrifood systems and enhance food security, contributing directly to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Key Responsibilities

- Act as the primary focal point for all operational matters related to assigned projects, ensuring smooth daily management and coordination.
- Take full responsibility for the corporate Project Cycle of assigned projects, including preparation, assessment, and operational clearance of new initiatives.
- Monitor and review project implementation progress, ensuring that activities such as recruitment, contracts, procurement, travel, workshops, and expenses are consistent with approved work plans and project documents.
- Identify operational inconsistencies or delays and recommend improvements to enhance efficiency and project outcomes.
- Coordinate the timely provision of project inputs, including personnel, technical support, sub-contracts, training, equipment, and supplies, working closely with relevant support units.
- Prepare and monitor project work plans, budget expenditures, and financial requests, keeping the Project Task Force regularly informed.
- Ensure the timely preparation and submission of narrative and financial reports to donors in compliance with funding agreements.
- Maintain accurate and complete data and documentation within FAO corporate and local systems such as iMIS, FPMIS, and GRMS.
- Generate analytical reports on project performance as required by management.
- Coordinate operational and financial closure of projects, including final reporting and identification of follow-up needs.
- Support the preparation and finalization of implementation documents, including Letters of Agreement, Operational Partner Implementation Modalities, Cash Transfers, Beneficiary Grants, and Vouchers.
- Assist in developing annual Procurement Plans, HR Plans, and Letters of Agreement aligned with Annual Work Plans.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

- Advanced university degree (Master’s level) in agriculture, economics, business administration and management, international relations, or a related field.
- Minimum of eight years of relevant experience in managing, operating, and supporting emergency and development projects and programmes.
- Working knowledge of English and Urdu.
- Must be a Pakistani national.

Preferred Qualifications and Benefits

- Experience working across multiple locations or sectors is highly desirable.
- Proven expertise in field programme/project operations within the food security and agriculture sectors.
- Strong background in coordinating project proposals, implementation, budget preparation, monitoring, revisions, and donor-specific financial reporting.
- Familiarity with Project Cycle Management principles and demonstrated programme or project management experience.
- Commitment to FAO’s core competencies, including results focus, teamwork, effective communication, relationship building, and continuous knowledge sharing.
- FAO values workforce diversity and encourages applications from qualified female candidates, nationals from under-represented groups, and persons with disabilities.
- Selected candidates will undergo thorough reference and background checks.
- Appointment is subject to medical fitness, accreditation, residency or visa requirements, and security clearances.
- FAO maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy towards conduct incompatible with its mandate, including sexual exploitation, abuse, harassment, and discrimination.
- FAO does not charge any fees during the recruitment process. Only applications submitted through the official FAO recruitment portal will be considered.
- Candidates are encouraged to complete their online profiles accurately and attach a motivation letter.
- FAO is a non-smoking environment and promotes environmental sustainability as part of its strategic objectives.

This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute meaningfully to international efforts in food security and sustainable agriculture within a respected United Nations agency.