Organizational Setting
The Animal Health and Production programme leads FAO’s work in strengthening national and regional capacities for the prevention, detection and control of animal diseases, improving animal production systems, and addressing complex health challenges through the One Health approach. The programme provides technical and operational leadership on animal health surveillance, transboundary animal diseases, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), zoonoses, biosecurity, and emergency preparedness and response, contributing to food security, livelihoods, public health and sustainable agri-food systems. It works in close collaboration with Member Countries, regional institutions, development partners and other FAO technical divisions, building on functions traditionally delivered under the FAO Emergency Centre for Transboundary Animal Diseases (ECTAD).
Within this context, the Animal Health and One Health team supports the design and implementation of regional and country-level programmes and projects, including under the Animal Production, Surveillance and One Health (APSOH).
Reporting Lines
The Regional Operations Specialist reports to the ECTAD Regional Manager for East Africa. He/she will work in close collaboration with the Programme, Administration, Procurement, Monitoring and Evaluation, and Communication teams, and in consultation with the relevant technical units at the Animal Health Unit (SFE), the Regional Office for Africa (RAF) and headquarters.
Technical Focus
Operational support function of the field programme including emergency, rehabilitation and development projects, regional/global projects.
Tasks And Responsibilities
Coordinate budgetary management and monitoring expenditures for programmes and projects under the technical leadership of the Senior Animal Health Coordinator - RAF Ensure adequate programme and operational support is provided to the implementation of Animal Health and One Health programmes and projects in implementing countries as required. Participate in the preparation of project work plans, monitor progress and, where necessary, identify corrective measures to overcome operational constraints. Handle day-to-day programme and operational aspects of projects and programmes in accordance with the project management cycle from initiation phase to operational and financial closure. Contribute/Assist to the formulation of project proposals according to FAO's procedures and prepare project documents for technical clearance and final approval under different funding arrangements. Maintain and update information systems and databases, as applicable. Assist the Regional Manager, in liaison with technical officers, in operating thematic activities linked to the overall Animal Production System and One Health (APSOH) programme including facilitating and participating in the planning exercises for thematic activities. Ensure timely procurement of services and materials required for implementation of programmes and projects. Monitor the implementation of efficient financial flow mechanisms and in ensuring timely availability of resources for the smooth implementation of project activities, including preparation and submission of Field Budget Authorizations (FBAs) and initiation of timely action for FBA revisions and amendments. Oversee work plan and budget delivery monitoring Maintain coordination and communication with respective Country, Regional and HQ Administrative Units for timely programme implementation. Assist in coordinating timely preparation of programme progress reports. Contribute to the preparation of Regional Team meetings. Organize all official international travels for staff and non-staff. Support resources mobilization efforts Perform other functions as required
CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING
Minimum Requirements
Advanced University degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in public or business administration, finance, accounting, economics, social sciences or other related fields. Consultants with a bachelor's degree need two additional years of relevant professional experience. At least five years of relevant experience in operations Working knowledge (level C) of English
FAO Core Competencies
Results Focus Teamwork Communication Building Effective Relationships Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement
Technical/Functional Skills
Operational and administrative coordination skills Financial and budget management skills
Call For Expressions Of Interest - Vacancy Announcement
Job Posting
18/May/2026
Closure Date
02/Jun/2026, 12:59:00 AM
Organizational Unit
FRKEN - FAO Representation in Kenya
Job Type
Non-staff opportunities
Grade Level
N/A
Primary Location
Kenya-Nairobi
Duration
3 months with possibility of extension
Post Number
N/A
IMPORTANT NOTICE: Please note that Closure Date and Time displayed above are based on date and time settings of your personal device
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’s commitment to environmental sustainability is integral to our strategic objectives and operations.
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