Organizational Setting

FAO in Lao PDR is implementing the project “The project for “Enhancement of Livelihood Resilience in Rural Areas”” no GCP/LAO/034/JPN.

The project is funded by the Government of Japan. The Government of Japan has supported the successful first phase project to help most rural communities in Laos respond to and recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

This project targets 48 villages in Luang Prabang and Oudomxay Provinces to contribute to poverty reduction, food and nutrition security and resilience of rural households in Lao PDR.

They will receive Climate-Smart Villages approach measures, support for small-scale agribusiness, and critical productive infrastructure (such as small-scale irrigation, water harvesting, and flood and drought mitigation measures).

Simultaneously, the project will strengthen the sustainable improvement of rural households’ incomes and livelihoods through climate-resilient, high-value agriculture and support infrastructure.

Reporting Lines

The incumbent r reports to International/National Project Coordinator of FAO in Lao PDR. The coordinator will also work in close collaboration with the Programme Development Specialist and other project team members.

Technical Focus

The incumbent will closely collaborate with FAO staff at country and regional level as well as with government counterparts and other implementing partners and stakeholders.

The Provincial Project Coordinator will undertake the overall management of the project at the provincial level, including but not limited to planning, budgeting, implementation and assessment of the project achievements against its objectives.

The position holder will ensure a strong coordination and partnership with government institutions and stakeholders as well as the beneficiaries. 

Tasks and responsibilities

•    Responsible for day-to-day technical and administrative management of the project at provincial level to ensure smooth and timely implementation of project activities in compliance with FAO administrative and financial rules and regulations. 
•    Management of project includes planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation, as well as preparing reports and briefings on a timely basis. 
•    Work closely with the local authorities and relevant partners, especially with Provincial Agriculture and Forestry Office (PAFO) to ensure the coordination of project activities and smooth implementation of project interventions at project sites.
•    Facilitate and lead the implementation of relevant studies and assessments in provincial/district/village/household levels in close collaboration with provincial, district authorities and village heads. 
•    Lead the organization and facilitation of provincial meetings, workshops and training sessions related to the project.
•    Coordinate for the distribution of project inputs 
•    Conduct the verification and monitoring process including application of M&E tools
•    Support and promote communications and ensure full visibility of donor and project with particular emphasis on success/human stories.
•    Lead the field team and provide with technical support in the implementation of activities at the district and village levels.
•    Perform any other related duties as required.

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements    

•    University degree in agriculture management, international development, data management, project management, natural resources management, rural development, and other related fields of the organization;
•    At least 4 years of relevant experience in project management, training and mentoring;
•    Working knowledge of English;
•    National of Lao PDR. 

FAO Core Competencies

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

Technical/Functional Skills 

•    Work experience in more than one location or area of work
•    Management skills;
•    Quality of both oral and written communication skills;
•    Ability to plan and organize institutional and technical work and support work of multi-disciplinary teams;
•    Good communication, presentation and reporting skills Demonstrated analytical, negotiating and advisory skills;
•    Computer literacy;
•    Experience working with the international organizations including INGOs, bilateral or multi-lateral agencies and/ or UN agencies is desirable
•    Experience to work with government authorities.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION