Project Assistant

FAO seeks gender, geographical and linguistic diversity in its staff and international consultants in order to best serve FAO Members in all regions.

• FAO is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality, background and culture
• Qualified female applicants, qualified nationals of non-and under-represented Members and person with disabilities are encouraged to apply
• Everyone who works for FAO is required to adhere to the highest standards of integrity and professional conduct, and to uphold FAO's values
• FAO, as a Specialized Agency of the United Nations, has a zero-tolerance policy for conduct that is incompatible with its status, objectives and mandate, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination　　
• All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks
• All applications will be treated with the strictest confidentiality
• FAO staff are subject to the authority of the Director-General, who may assign them to any of the activities or offices of the Organization.

Organizational Setting

FAO Uzbekistan has been agreed to launch a Smart farming for future generation project in Republic of Uzbekistan in accordance with memorandum agreement between Government and FAO and successfully assisting Ministry of Agriculture of Uzbekistan by implementing joint programs with Government organization. FAO Uzbekistan office is in need of Project Assistant position in Smart Farming project team to assist in administrative tasks of FAO project.

Reporting Lines

Under the overall supervision of the Budget Holder (NSPLD Team Leader), direct technical supervision of the Lead Technical Officer (LTO), and administrative and operational supervision of the Assistant FAO Representative in Uzbekistan

Technical Focus

Position holder is intended to provide timely and efficient operation and administration support to the successful implementation of the project activities In accordance with FAO rules, procedures, and systems.

Tasks and responsibilities

Under the overall supervision of the Budget Holder (NSPLD Team Leader), direct technical supervision of the Lead Technical Officer (LTO), and administrative and operational supervision of the AFAO Representative in Uzbekistan, the Project Assistant will provide administrative and logistical support to ensure smooth implementation of the project undertaking the following tasks:
-In accordance with FAO rules, procedures, and systems, provide timely and efficient operation and administration support to the successful implementation of the project activities.
-Keep day-to-day contact with the project team and provide advice and timely support when needed.
-Closely collaborate with the LTO and HQ Technical Officer/ALTO in planning and implementing the project activities (development of project work plan, procurement plan, travel plan, and HR);
-Follow up on the work plan and coordinate the monitoring and evaluation of the project activities.
-Process incoming and draft outgoing correspondence, e-mails, reports, and other written materials, including one-year progress report and weekly/monthly reports.
-Provide administrative support to missions of international consultants and FAO Officers, follow up on the field mission (reports, security clearance, travel authorization, travel expense claim, etc.).
-Liaise and coordinate with all stakeholders related to the project activities.
-Assist with developing the project publications, translation of the documents, and other correspondence as necessary.
-Take a lead on keeping the project pages on the FAO system (FEUZB website and FPMIS) up to date.
-Assist in the organization of workshops and technical meetings and develop the minutes and reports.
-Ensure appropriate oversight on all communication, procurement, human resources, and financial transactions (Field Budget Authorization and budget monitoring);
-Review and prepare routine documentation and correspondence related to assigned procurement actions, including, but not limited to identification of potential suppliers, preparation of invitations to bid, bid summaries, purchase orders and/or contracts, simple contractual amendments, renewals; obtain clarifications when necessary.
-Ensure that all FAO activities are administered according to the existing rules and regulations, adhering to the rules of transparency, accountability, fairness, and best value for money.
-Support the development, selection, awarding, implementation/delivery, payment, and closure of any contractual arrangements for the procurement of goods and services to ensure compliance with organizational rules and regulations as well as coherence, comprehensiveness, and soundness of the contracts.
-Any other duties as required.

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements

• Higher degree in economics, finance, business administration, procurement and or supply related fields.
• 2 years of relevant experience in procurement, supply and other similar fields.
• Working knowledge (level C) of English and Uzbek, working knowledge of Russian.
• National or Resident of Uzbekistan

FAO Core Competencies

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

Please note that all candidates should adhere to FAO Values of Commitment to FAO, Respect for All and Integrity and Transparency.