Back Project Manager - Organic Learning Farms Network

The Pacific Community (SPC) is the principal scientific and technical organisation in the Pacific region, supporting development since 1947. We are an international development organisation owned and governed by our 26 country and territory members. In pursuit of sustainable development to benefit Pacific people, our organisation works across more than 20 sectors. We are known for our knowledge and innovation in such areas as fisheries science, public health, geoscience, and conservation of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture.

The Land Resources Division (LRD) provides advice, technical assistance, research and training support to Pacific Island countries and territories on all aspects of agriculture and forestry. This includes plant protection, conservation, plant genetic resources, animal health and production, agroforestry, biosecurity and trade facilitation, and sustainable systems for agriculture, forestry and land management. This work has two objectives: improved food and nutritional security, and resilient communities. The division’s services are provided through seven technical/thematic teams: Animal Health and Production; Plant Health; Biosecurity and Trade Facilitation; Forest and Agriculture Diversification; Crop Production and Extension; Genetic Resources; and Forests and Trees.

The role – Project Manager - Organic Learning Farms Network will provide strategic vision, management, and direction for the Pacific Organic Learning Farm Network – agro ecology and agro forestry for climate resilience project. The Project Manager will oversee implementation of all aspects of the project including coordination of the staff and partners involved at national (producers, government institutions) and regional levels, and internally within SPC. The position is responsible for in-country activity implementation in Fiji, Nauru, Tonga and Solomon Islands, financial management, reporting and operations.

The key responsibilities of the role include:

• Project management
• Supervision, mentoring and supporting staff and consultants
• Facilitation of effective communication among and between national partners and regional development partners

For a more detailed account of the key responsibilities, please refer to the job description online.

Key selection criteria

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as governance, agricultural economics, international development or management

Knowledge and experience

• At least 10 years of work experience on agricultural, sustainable development, environmental or economic growth programs or activities in the Pacific region
• At least 5 years of project management and staff supervision experience
• Understanding of agricultural systems in the Pacific region, and the role of biodiversity and climate change

Essential skills

• Financial, people and administrative management skills, including monitoring project/organizational performance
• Advocacy skills, including ability to represent the project and SPC at the national, regional and international levels
• Ability develop and maintain key relationships with stakeholders
• Ability to develop and evaluate learning/training materials and tool kits
• Excellent computer skills, including database management

Language skills

• Excellent English communication skills (oral and written)

Interpersonal skills and cultural awareness

• Ability to work in a multicultural, inclusive and equitable environment
• Excellent interpersonal skills with ability to deliver information within a cross-cultural context

Salary, terms and conditions

Contract Duration – 3 years

Due to the current travel restrictions caused by the global COVID-19 pandemic, and the priority SPC places on its staff safety, health and well-being, please note that there may be delays in taking up the appointment. These matters will be discussed thoroughly with successful candidates. In most cases, any appointment and on-boarding would only commence when relocation to the duty station is permitted.

Remuneration – The Project Manager - Organic Learning Farms Network is a Band 10 position in SPC’s 2021 salary scale, with a starting salary range of 2,512‒3,140 SDR (special drawing rights) per month, which currently converts to approximately FJD 7,586–9,483 (USD 3,492–4,364; EUR 3,081–3,852). An offer of appointment for an initial contract will normally be made in the lower half of this range, with due consideration given to experience and qualifications. Progression within the salary scale will be based on annual performance reviews. Remuneration of expatriate SPC staff members is not subject to income tax in Fiji; Fiji nationals employed by SPC in Fiji will be subject to income tax.

Benefits for international employees based in Fiji – SPC provides a housing allowance of FJD 1,350–3,000 per month. Establishment and repatriation grant, removal expenses, airfares, home leave travel, health and life and disability insurances and education allowances are available for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Employees are entitled to 25 working days of annual leave per annum and other types of leave, and access to SPC’s Provident Fund (contributing 8% of salary, to which SPC adds a matching contribution).

Languages – SPC’s working languages are English and French.

Recruitment principles – SPC’s recruitment is based on merit and fairness, and candidates are competing in a selection process that is fair, transparent and non-discriminatory. SPC is an equal-opportunity employer, and is committed to cultural and gender diversity, including bilingualism, and will seek to attract and appoint candidates who respect these values. Due attention is given to gender equity and the maintenance of strong representation from Pacific Island professionals. If two interviewed candidates are ranked equal by the selection panel, preference will be given to the Pacific Islander.

Applicants will be assured of complete confidentiality in line with SPC’s Privacy Policy.