Principal Programme Officer, Food Safety at AUDA - NEPAD

Required Skills and Competencies

1. Strong technical understanding of food safety systems, agricultural policy, and regulatory frameworks, with experience coordinating multi-country programmes.
2. Proven ability to manage partnerships and stakeholder engagement with governments, regional bodies, and development partners.
3. Excellent analytical, communication, and reporting skills, with capacity to translate technical findings into policy and practical solutions.
4. Demonstrated skills in project planning, supervision, and results-based management within complex institutional environments.
5. High standards of professionalism, integrity, and teamwork, with commitment to inclusive and sustainable food systems development.

Education and Experience:

• A Master’s degree in Food and Nutrition Security, Food Policy, Food Science, Food Safety, Agriculture, and minimum of eight (8) years of relevant and progressively responsible experience in food and nutrition security, food safety, and food systems of which three (3) year are at supervisory level within public sector institutions, international organisations, or similar bodies at national, regional, or continental levels.

Or

• A Bachelor’s degree in Food and Nutrition Security, Food Policy, Food Science, Food Safety, Agriculture, with twelve (12) years of progressively responsible experience in food and nutrition security, food safety, and food systems, of which seven (7) years are at a specialist/expert level within public sector institutions, international organisations, or similar bodies at national, regional, or continental levels.
• Proven experience in designing and implementing multi-country programmes, policy harmonisation, and regulatory system strengthening related to food safety or agricultural development.
• Experience in working with governments, regional economic communities, and development partners, providing technical and strategic support on food safety and food systems transformation.
• Experience managing donor-funded projects, including planning, reporting, and coordination of diverse stakeholder networks.
• Expertise in continental frameworks and strategies, such as CAADP, the Food Safety Strategy for Africa, and Agenda 2063, is an advantage.