The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is inviting qualified candidates to apply for the position of Programme Associate (G-6) within the Agrifood Economics and Policy Division (ESA), based at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy. This call for expressions of interest represents a valuable career opportunity for professionals seeking to contribute to global food security, sustainable agriculture, and policy transformation in line with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
About FAO and Its Mission
As a specialized agency of the United Nations, FAO plays a pivotal role in building efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems. The organization supports global, regional, and national efforts to achieve better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life—leaving no one behind.
Within FAO, the Agrifood Economics and Policy Division (ESA) provides evidence-based analysis and policy guidance to transform food systems. ESA leads flagship publications such as The State of Food and Agriculture (SOFA) and The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World (SOFI) and supports FAO’s Roadmap on achieving SDG2 without breaching the 1.5°C climate threshold.
The advertised position is located in the Front Office of ESA, where the successful candidate will contribute to programme coordination, planning, and policy support.
Key Details of the Vacancy
- Job Title: Programme Associate
- Job ID: 2502097
- Grade Level: G-6 (General Service category)
- Location: FAO Headquarters, Rome, Italy
- Duration: Fixed-term, two years with possibility of extension
- Application Deadline: 10 September 2025, 1:59 AM (Rome time)
- Recruitment Type: Local recruitment only (candidates must reside within commuting distance of Rome or hold a valid work permit for Italy)
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Responsibilities and Impact
The Programme Associate will play a central role in the coordination of programme and project support services, ensuring smooth operations in the Division. Working under the supervision of the ESA Director, the incumbent is expected to exercise a high degree of independence and initiative.
Main Functions:
- Coordinate the preparation, monitoring, and reporting of divisional budgets.
- Compile and analyze data for management reports and policy support.
- Monitor projects, maintain reference material, and ensure documentation is updated.
- Oversee reports on human resources planning, use of resources, communication, IT, and travel.
- Screen and draft correspondence on issues requiring managerial attention.
- Support knowledge sharing and capacity building through training and staff briefings.
- Review processes and recommend improvements in programme/project administration.
Impact of Work
The Programme Associate’s contributions will directly support FAO’s mandate by ensuring efficiency and reliability in programme operations. By providing proactive support, the incumbent will enhance policy processes, research dissemination, and the delivery of FAO’s global objectives.
Candidate Profile
Minimum Requirements
- Education: Secondary school education.
- Experience: At least five years in administration, finance, planning, programming, or budgeting.
- Languages: Proficiency in English (Level C) and intermediate knowledge (Level B) of one additional FAO working language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish).
- IT Skills: Strong command of MS Office, internet tools, and office equipment.
- Residency: Must be a national of Italy or have an existing visa/work permit with residence within commuting distance of Rome.
Core Competencies
- Results focus
- Teamwork
- Communication
- Building effective relationships
- Knowledge sharing and continuous improvement
Technical Skills
- Knowledge of FAO corporate systems and processes.
- Familiarity with programme and budget procedures.
- Understanding of administrative and financial regulations.
- Strong documentation and communication skills.
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Desirable Qualifications
- Knowledge of multiple funding sources and their budgetary implications.
- Experience with staff secondments, funding changes, and accounting adjustments.
- Familiarity with HR, procurement, travel, and reporting processes.
- Experience mentoring and training staff.
Diversity and Integrity at FAO
FAO is committed to workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality, culture, and background. Applications from qualified women, nationals of underrepresented Member States, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged.
The organization enforces a zero-tolerance policy on sexual exploitation, harassment, abuse of authority, and discrimination. All candidates undergo rigorous reference and background checks to ensure the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.
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Application Process
Interested candidates must apply through the FAO recruitment portal by completing their online profile and attaching relevant certificates, particularly language proficiency certificates from accredited providers. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Applications should be submitted well before the deadline: 10 September 2025.
Remuneration and Benefits
FAO offers a competitive salary and benefits package, in line with UN compensation standards. As this is a General Service (local recruitment) position, salaries are paid in local currency, and no international benefits apply.
Final Thoughts
This Programme Associate role is a rare opportunity to join one of the world’s leading UN agencies at the heart of global food policy. Based in Rome, the position allows professionals with strong administrative and financial expertise to contribute directly to FAO’s mission of building sustainable and inclusive food systems worldwide.
For motivated applicants with the right skills and commitment, this is more than a job—it is a chance to make a global impact while working in an international, multicultural environment.
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