Programme Policy Officer (BNP-PMU Manager) - NOC - Islamabad

The World Food Programme (WFP), the largest humanitarian organization dedicated to saving lives and building pathways to peace and prosperity, is seeking a Programme Policy Officer (BNP - PMU Manager) based in Islamabad. This fixed-term position (12 months, renewable) offers an opportunity to lead the Programme Management Unit (PMU) within the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), Pakistan’s flagship nutrition-sensitive social protection initiative. The role involves strategic leadership, coordination with government and UN partners, and oversight of programme implementation aimed at reducing maternal and child malnutrition through integrated cash transfers, health services, and nutrition interventions. The position supports the third phase of BNP (2026-2029), focusing on data-driven service delivery, digital transformation, supply chain efficiency, and sustainable government ownership.

Key Responsibilities

- Lead and manage the BNP Programme Management Unit, overseeing a team of approximately 10 staff, including new capacities in supply chain, knowledge management, and communications.

- Provide strategic guidance and technical advice on programme policies, implementation modalities, and innovative approaches to strengthen nutrition-sensitive social protection.

- Serve as a liaison between BISP’s Director General and WFP, WHO, UNICEF country offices, ensuring effective coordination and alignment of programme activities.

- Support the integration of digital solutions and data analytics, including the BNP app and beneficiary monitoring systems, to enhance real-time monitoring, evaluation, and reporting.

- Foster and manage strategic partnerships with national and international stakeholders, including government agencies, UN organizations, donors, and NGOs.

- Identify gaps and recommend adjustments in staffing, resources, processes, and training to support the successful scale-up of BNP 3.0.

- Coordinate operational research, evidence-building, and the preparation of analytical reports and information products for internal and external use.

- Lead capacity-building efforts by developing functional training for PMU staff and partners to improve programme design and delivery.

- Contribute to emergency preparedness, risk analysis, and contingency planning to respond to humanitarian crises.

- Ensure timely and accurate reporting to donors and stakeholders, and support risk management and programme adjustment in consultation with UN agencies.

Required Qualifications

- Advanced university degree in Business, Development Studies, Economics, Political Science, Project Management, or a related social science field. A first degree with two additional years of relevant experience and training is also acceptable.

- Minimum of five years of postgraduate professional experience in project management, human capital development, nutrition, or health, preferably within international organizations or the UN system.

- Proven experience working with the Government of Pakistan and UN programmes, particularly in nutrition-responsive social protection programming and coordination.

- Strong knowledge of Pakistan’s governance, policies, and frameworks related to nutrition, health, social protection, women’s empowerment, and human capital development.

- Excellent coordination, communication, and writing skills, with a solid understanding of UN system operations.

- Fluency in English and Urdu (Level C).

Preferred Qualifications and Benefits

WFP offers a highly inclusive, diverse, and multicultural work environment, investing in professional development through training, mentorship, and internal mobility. The organization provides a competitive benefits package including salary, social security contributions, medical insurance, annual and parental leave, among others. Appointment is subject to verification of educational credentials by the Higher Education Commission (HEC).

This vacancy is open to UN staff only and will also be used to build a roster of prequalified candidates for future opportunities at the same or lower levels within Pakistan. Qualified women are strongly encouraged to apply.

WFP is committed to equal employment opportunities and supports reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. All applications must be submitted through the official WFP online recruitment portal. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

For more information about WFP and its work, please visit www.wfp.org.