Introduction
In an era where climate shocks are the leading driver of acute hunger, the need for innovative, proactive solutions has never been more urgent. The intersection of food systems, climate action, and humanitarian response represents the critical frontier in the global fight against food insecurity. A unique opportunity has emerged for a dedicated professional to contribute at this very nexus with a world-leading humanitarian organization.
The World Food Programme (WFP) is seeking an Assistant for Food Systems and Anticipatory Action to be based in its Regional Bureau for East Africa in Nairobi, Kenya. This is not a conventional administrative role; it is a mission-critical position designed to support the operationalization of strategies that protect vulnerable communities before climate disasters strike. The selected candidate will be at the heart of WFP’s efforts to transform local food systems and implement anticipatory action frameworks across one of the world’s most climate-vulnerable regions.
This position offers the chance to work within a dynamic team, translating high-level policy and technical guidance into actionable plans. Key benefits include direct exposure to cutting-edge humanitarian programming, collaboration with a diverse network of experts and government partners, and the profound satisfaction of contributing to resilience-building at scale. What makes this role stand out is its forward-looking focus. Instead of only responding to crises, this role supports initiatives that aim to prevent them, offering a more dignified and sustainable pathway for communities facing the relentless impacts of climate change. For a professional passionate about climate resilience, food security, and systemic change, this assistant role provides an unparalleled entry point into strategic humanitarian work.
Table of Contents
Background & Job Description
The World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impact of climate change. In 2020, WFP was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for its efforts to combat hunger and its contribution to improving conditions for peace in conflict-affected areas.
The Regional Bureau for East Africa oversees operations in multiple countries frequently impacted by drought, flooding, and conflict, making it a focal point for innovation in climate adaptation. Within this bureau, the focus on Food Systems and Anticipatory Action is central to WFP’s regional strategy. Anticipatory Action refers to acting before a predicted hazard to prevent or reduce its humanitarian impact, a paradigm shift from traditional response.
The purpose of this assistant position is to provide specialized support to the Food Systems and Anticipatory Action team. The role is instrumental in ensuring the smooth execution of programmatic activities, data management, partner coordination, and knowledge sharing. This individual will help fit together the pieces of complex projects, ensuring that technical advisors and country offices have the operational support needed to implement resilience-building programs. Ultimately, this position contributes to WFP’s broader strategic goals of reducing humanitarian needs, strengthening national systems, and supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
Key Responsibilities
The Assistant will perform a range of duties that bridge administrative efficiency with technical program support. The significance of these tasks lies in their direct contribution to effective program delivery and informed decision-making.
- Program Support & Coordination: Provide comprehensive administrative and programmatic support for the Food Systems and Anticipatory Action unit. This involves scheduling, preparing for high-level meetings, and managing workflows, which ensures the technical team can focus on strategic advisory and design work.
- Knowledge Management & Reporting: Assist in compiling, formatting, and drafting technical reports, briefing notes, and presentations. This responsibility is crucial for documenting lessons learned, securing donor funding, and communicating impact to stakeholders.
- Data Compilation and Analysis Support: Gather, systematize, and help analyze data related to climate risks, food systems, and early warning indicators. This foundational work supports evidence-based decision-making for where and when to trigger anticipatory actions.
- Stakeholder Engagement Support: Facilitate communication and coordination with WFP country offices, government agencies, NGO partners, and research institutions. Effective coordination is key to ensuring aligned and collaborative action across multiple actors.
- Event and Logistics Management: Support the organization of workshops, training sessions, and field missions. These events are essential for capacity building, partnership strengthening, and ground-truthing program models.
Qualifications
Education & Certification
A minimum of a university degree is required in a relevant field such as Food Security, Agriculture, Environmental Science, Climate Studies, International Development, Economics, or Social Sciences. A post-graduate degree (Master’s level) in a related discipline is considered a strong asset. Certifications or formal training in project management (e.g., PRINCE2), monitoring and evaluation, or climate risk analysis would be viewed favorably.
Assistant, Food Systems and Anticipatory Action for Climate-Resilient Food Security at World Food Programme (WFP) 2026: Build a Career Fighting Hunger on the Frontlines of Climate Change
Experience
Candidates are required to have at least three (3) years of progressively responsible professional experience in program support, administration, or a related field, preferably within humanitarian, development, or climate-focused organizations.
- Specific Skills & Domain Expertise: Prior exposure to topics related to climate change adaptation, disaster risk reduction, agriculture, or food systems is highly desirable. Experience working in the East Africa region and understanding its context is a significant advantage.
- Technical Competencies: The role demands strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to multitask and meet deadlines. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (especially advanced Excel and PowerPoint) is essential. Experience with data visualization tools and basic data analysis is preferred. Excellent written and oral communication skills in English are mandatory, with the ability to draft clear and concise documents. Knowledge of another UN official language, particularly French or Arabic, is a benefit.
Why Apply for This Position
This assistant role is a strategic career launchpad for professionals aiming to specialize in the rapidly growing fields of climate resilience and anticipatory humanitarian action. Unlike many entry-to-mid-level positions, this role offers a direct line of sight to how high-level policy is translated into operations on the ground. You will gain hands-on experience with innovative financing mechanisms, such as forecast-based financing, and contribute to programs that are shaping the future of humanitarian response.
The networking potential is immense. You will interact with WFP technical experts, government officials, scientists from leading climate institutions, and partners across the humanitarian-development nexus. This network is invaluable for long-term career growth. Furthermore, working within a UN agency like WFP provides unparalleled insights into multilateral diplomacy and global governance structures.
The impact of your work will be tangible. By supporting programs that help farmers protect their livelihoods before a drought or flood, you contribute to more dignified, cost-effective, and sustainable outcomes for millions. The work culture at WFP’s Regional Bureau is fast-paced and mission-driven, offering a collaborative environment where initiative is valued. This position is an ideal way to build a credible profile as a professional who understands both the operational and strategic dimensions of fighting hunger in a changing climate.
Application Tips & Insights
To stand out, tailor your resume and cover letter to bridge administrative competence with thematic passion. Highlight any experience related to data management, report drafting, and event coordination. Crucially, connect these skills to the context of climate, agriculture, or food security, even if from academia or a previous role.
In your application, explicitly mention and provide examples of skills like “stakeholder coordination,” “knowledge management,” and “program support in a technical field.” Use keywords from the job description, such as “anticipatory action,” “food systems,” and “climate resilience.”
A common mistake is to focus solely on administrative tasks without demonstrating an understanding of the role’s technical context. Avoid this by briefly illustrating your interest in the subject matter. Another error is a generic cover letter; ensure yours is specific to WFP and this regional bureau.
Prepare for a multi-stage process that may include a written test assessing your drafting and data skills, followed by a competency-based interview. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your interview answers. Research WFP’s current Anticipatory Action programs in East Africa (e.g., in Somalia or Kenya) to show informed enthusiasm. Be patient with the timeline, as UN recruitment processes can be lengthy.
Additional Information
- Salary: UN Salary scales are based on the grade of the post (General Service level) and the duty station. For a G5 level position in Nairobi, the salary is competitive and includes post-adjustment according to UN standards. Detailed salary information can be found on the ICSC website for the Nairobi duty station.
- Benefits: The comprehensive benefits package includes: Dependency allowances, rental subsidy, 30 days of annual leave, comprehensive health insurance, pension plan, and education grant for eligible children.
- Work Arrangement: The position is based in Nairobi, Kenya. WFP may offer flexible working arrangements in line with its policies.
- Contract Duration: The initial contract is typically for 12 months, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding.
- Application Deadline: Candidates are advised to apply promptly. The vacancy may close before the stated deadline if a suitable candidate is identified.
- Equal Opportunity: WFP is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence. Qualified female applicants and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.
How to Apply
All applications must be submitted through the official WFP recruitment portal.
- Visit the WFP Career Website.
- Search for the vacancy by job title or requisition ID: 832606.
- Click “Apply” and either create an account or log in.
- Complete the online application form thoroughly.
- Required documents typically include: a tailored CV/Resume and a Cover Letter (or use the provided text field) explaining your motivation and suitability for this specific role. Ensure all academic and professional experience is clearly documented.
- Submit your application well before the deadline. You will receive an automated confirmation email upon successful submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is this a field-based role or a headquarters-based role?
This is a regional bureau-based role in Nairobi, Kenya. It provides operational support to country offices across the East Africa region. While primarily office-based, there may be occasional opportunities to support or learn from field missions, depending on program needs.
2. I have a strong background in climate science but limited direct humanitarian experience. Would I be a good fit?
Yes, a climate science background is highly relevant. This role values the ability to understand and process climate data and early warning information. Your application should emphasize how your technical knowledge can be applied to support programmatic decisions and communications within a humanitarian structure. Highlight any transferable skills in analysis, reporting, or coordination.
3. What are the main challenges someone in this role might face?
The role operates at a fast pace, often balancing multiple deadlines for different country programs. The complexity of coordinating with various stakeholders (headquarters, country offices, partners) can be challenging. Furthermore, working in anticipatory action involves dealing with probabilistic forecasts (uncertainty), which requires a comfort with data-driven decision-making in fluid situations.
4. What is the typical career progression for someone in this position?
This G5-level position can lead to more senior roles within WFP, such as Programme Associate, Monitoring & Evaluation Officer, or even specializations in climate or food security policy. Gaining experience in a regional bureau provides a solid foundation for applying to international professional (P-level) positions in the future, both within WFP and across the wider UN system or NGOs.
5. Does WFP sponsor work permits/relocation for this position?
For international candidates selected for a position in Kenya, WFP will assist with the sponsorship of a work permit and provide specific relocation entitlements as per the organization’s rules and regulations. This is typically outlined in the offer letter.
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