Programme Policy Officer (NOA) – Homs

About the role

The World Food Programme (WFP) is recruiting a Programme Policy Officer (NOA) in Homs, Syria, on a 12-month fixed-term contract. The incumbent reports directly to the Head of Homs Field Office and acts as Deputy Head of Field Office. The role calls for solid experience in emergency response and in programming for sustained livelihoods and resilience, and covers emergency response, targeted food assistance, school feeding, livelihood support and social protection.

Key responsibilities

• Translate WFP-wide programme policies into practical field approaches, guidance and operational strategies, and oversee projects such as emergency response, food assistance, school feeding and livelihood support (in-kind or cash-based).
• Assess food needs during emergencies and help the Field Office develop and monitor response plans.
• Contribute to emergency preparedness, early warning, risk analysis and contingency planning.
• Lead social protection initiatives and oversee livelihood and resilience programmes, building partnerships with local governments, UN agencies, partners and communities.
• Prepare and negotiate Field Level Agreements (FLAs), including budgeting and staff costs, and guide partners on compliance and accountability.
• Oversee beneficiary registration, targeting and delivery of assistance, and explore ways to strengthen local food systems.
• Lead oversight of implemented activities, identify risks and implement prevention and mitigation measures.
• Work with the Monitoring and Evaluation team so that findings and community feedback improve service delivery.
• Represent WFP in food security, nutrition, livelihoods, social protection and cash-based assistance forums, liaising with NGOs, UN agencies and affected populations.
• Incorporate gender and protection perspectives, support partner and government capacity building, and link with other Field Office, Area Office and Country Office units.

Required profile

• Advanced university degree in Political Science, International Development, Development Economics, International Relations, Human Rights, Communications or another relevant field; alternatively a first degree with two additional years of related work experience and/or training.
• At least one year of relevant professional experience in a humanitarian organization covering programme activities, emergency response, monitoring and evaluation, risk management and identity management (IDM); or three years of experience with a Bachelor's degree.
• Desired: knowledge of UN emergency preparedness and response policies, strong understanding of WFP programmes and field operations, and proven leadership of teams.
• Fluency in spoken and written English and Arabic.

Applications are submitted only through the WFP online recruiting system, with a CV and cover letter; shortlisted candidates are invited to the next stage, which includes reference and background checks.