Organizational Setting

The main aim of FAO Country Offices, 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 participates in the development and implementation of field projects in the sectors of food security, agriculture, and rural development. This requires the integration within the broader framework of sustainable food and agriculture that aims at increasing production and productivity, addressing climate change, and managing natural resources; and enhance rural livelihoods.

The Emergency Centre for Transboundary Animal Diseases (ECTAD) in Lao PDR is dedicated to working with the government in preventing and controlling emerging infectious and zoonotic diseases by working closely with national stakeholders in the animal production and health sector. The tasks envisaged for this position are to be carried out through the Emergency Centre for Transboundary Animal Diseases (ECTAD), which is currently implementing several projects in various countries in Asia and the Pacific region.

Reporting Lines

The Finance and Procurement Assistant reports directly to the Country Team Leader, Emergency Centre for Transboundary Animal Disease (ECTAD), Lao PDR, under the operational guidance of the Operations Officer and the overall administrative and functional guidance of the FAO Representative in Lao PDR. The incumbent will closely collaborate with colleagues in representation and project staff as well as with government counterparts at national and provincial level and other implementing partners and stakeholders.

He/she acts independently in routine matters. Supervision received is focused on the quality of the work performed and provides for on-the-job learning.

Technical Focus

The Finance and Procurement Assistant will provide support in budgeting, accounting, procurement, and grant management to ensure the effective implementation of AMR project activities.

Tasks and responsibilities

•    Manage the FAO GRMS and other FAO systems for project-related in financial transactions. Maintain accurate records of all financial and administrative files.
•    Prepare correspondence related to administrative and financial matters; draft responses to verify data, answer queries, and obtain additional information on transactions and financial issues as required.
•    Assist in preparing financial reports in both FAO format and donor-specific formats.
•    Assist in preparing documentation and responding to queries for internal and external audits.
•    Ensure compliance with donor guidelines regarding budgeting and financial reporting.
•    Maintain detailed records of budget estimates, obligations and available balances; participate in the consolidation of budget proposals; prepare financial data for budget estimates and financial planning.
•    Monitor project expenditures and alert relevant staff to potential budget overruns or compliance risks.
•    Assist in the preparation of procurement plans and schedules in coordination with relevant sectors.
•    Support procurement process for related activities in compliance with FAO policies, financial rules and regulations.
•    Maintain vendor records, assist in contract administration, and ensure timely processing of payments.
•    Perform other duties as required.

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements    

•    University Degree in Administration, Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a relevant field.
•    Minimum 3 years’ experience in general project/office administrative, operations activities related to procurement, and financial support.
•    Working knowledge in English.
•    National of Lao PDR.

FAO Core Competencies

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

Technical/Functional Skills

•    Computer literacy: proficient Microsoft Office Word and Excel applications
•    Extent and relevance of experience in project implementation and administration support in UN agencies would be an asset.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION