JOB DESCRIPTION

JOB PURPOSE:

The Programme Policy Officer will play a critical role in supporting WFP’s operations in Jamaica. The Officer will be responsible for developing and implementing policies, strategies, and guidelines to support program delivery. This includes data management for social protection and emergencies, as well as program coordination.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES (not all-inclusive, within delegated authority):

Policy Development and Implementation:

• Contribute to the development and implementation of policies, strategies, and guidelines aligned with WFP’s global and country strategies.
• Conduct policy analysis and research to inform decision-making.
• Provide technical guidance to program teams on policy and programmatic issues.
• Ensure compliance with WFP’s policies and procedures.

Program Coordination:

• Coordinate with program teams to ensure alignment with WFP’s strategic priorities.
• Liaise with government counterparts, NGOs, and other stakeholders to build partnerships and facilitate collaboration.
• Participate in relevant meetings and working groups with internal and external stakeholders to advocate for and represent WFP’s interests and provide technical expertise.
• Support the development of project proposals and work plans.
• Serve as Officer-in-Charge (OIC) in the absence of the Head of Office, assuming additional responsibilities as required.
• Serve as WFP representative within United Nations Programme Coordination Group (PCG) and related fora as required.

Data Management for Social Protection and Emergencies:

• Develop and manage data systems for social protection and emergency response programs.
• Ensure data quality and integrity through data cleaning, validation, and analysis.
• Utilize data analysis techniques to identify trends, patterns, and insights.
• Support the development of data visualization tools to communicate findings effectively.
• Collaborate with technical specialists to ensure data is used to inform decision-making.

Government Relations and Advocacy:

• Support the development and implementation of government relations strategies.
• Build strong relationships with government counterparts at all levels.
• Advocate for WFP’s programs and policies with government officials and other stakeholders.
• Represent WFP in meetings in external stakeholder meetings.

Capacity Building:

• Provide technical guidance and training to WFP staff, partners and governments on policy, programme development, and data management.
• Build the capacity of national staff to implement WFP programs effectively.

OTHER POST REQUIREMENTS (details to be determined by Post Managers):

WFP provides emergency response support to the 22 English and Dutch-speaking countries in the Caribbean. In this role, the incumbent may be required to:

• Support the Finance and Administration Unit’s emergency response activities.
• Deploy to affected countries to assist with Finance or Administration operations as required.
• Work beyond regular working hours to support emergency response efforts

DESIRED EXPERIENCES FOR ENTRY INTO THE ROLE:

• Has deepened technical knowledge through exposure to technical teams.
• Has taken leadership of implementing programmes.
• Has provided input into policy discussions and decisions.
• Strong analytical skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
• Team player and collaborative approach

STANDARD MINIMUM ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS:

Education:

Advanced University degree in International Affairs, Economics, Political Science, Social Sciences or other field relevant to international development assistance, or First University Degree with additional years of related work experience and/or trainings/courses.

Experience:

3 years of professional experience with an Advance University degree or 5 years with a First degree.

• Professional experience in program development, policy analysis, and government relations.
• Strong analytical skills and experience in data analysis and interpretation.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Experience in working with government counterparts, NGOs, and other stakeholders.
• Knowledge of data management systems and tools.
• Experience in designing and implementing surveys and other data collection methods.
• Experience in conducting needs assessments and vulnerability analyses.
• Experience in working in complex and challenging environments.

Language:

National Professional: Fluency (level C) in English language.

Level of Education: Bachelor Degree

Work Hours: 8

Experience in Months: No requirements