Drive Innovation and Change as a Remote Project Manager at World Food Program’s Business Innovation Project. 2024
Change Management and Business Innovation Project Manager
Location: Rome, Italy
Duration: 6 months
Job ID: 831455
Posted: January 29, 2024
Introduction
The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) operates at the forefront of global humanitarian efforts, providing crucial assistance to millions of people affected by conflicts, natural disasters, and food insecurity. In recent years, WFP has faced unprecedented challenges, requiring innovative approaches and efficient operational models to meet the growing demands of its mission. To address these needs, WFP established the Change Management and Business Innovation Unit (BIU) in 2015. This unit plays a pivotal role in guiding strategic initiatives, optimizing processes, and fostering innovation across the organization.
About WFP
WFP is the leading humanitarian organization fighting hunger worldwide, delivering food assistance in emergencies and working with communities to improve nutrition and build resilience. As part of the United Nations system and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), WFP aims to achieve Zero Hunger by 2030, ensuring that every man, woman, and child has access to sufficient and nutritious food.
Job Overview
The Change Management and Business Innovation Project Manager will be based in Rome, Italy, for a period of six months. This role is integral to driving WFP’s strategic initiatives forward, focusing on innovation, change management, and operational efficiency. The Project Manager will collaborate closely with senior leadership, leveraging their expertise in management consulting and international organizations to implement impactful solutions.
Key Responsibilities
- Execution of Business Innovation Projects
- Lead and manage end-to-end Business Innovation projects aimed at optimizing strategic planning, sourcing, logistics, finance processes, and performance management.
- Collaborate with divisional leaders and project teams to identify priorities, define project scopes, and develop actionable strategies.
- Provide analytical support, conducting data analysis and producing insights to drive informed decision-making and operational improvements.
- Change Management and Strategic Initiatives
- Advise Executive Directors and Division Chiefs on prioritization of key corporate initiatives aligned with WFP’s strategic goals.
- Guide the implementation of UN Reform initiatives within WFP, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and fostering collaboration across teams.
- Lead communication efforts on UN Reform, facilitating knowledge sharing and best practices across the organization.
- Leadership and Team Management
- Act as a key member of the BIU leadership team, contributing to knowledge management reviews, talent development, and team-building initiatives.
- Supervise and mentor junior staff, providing guidance on complex analysis, project management, and professional development.
- Additional Responsibilities
- Support the development and implementation of new strategies and operational models to enhance efficiency and effectiveness within WFP.
- Collaborate with external partners and stakeholders, including other UN agencies, governments, NGOs, and private sector entities, to foster innovation and best practices in humanitarian operations.
Qualifications and Experience
Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in business administration, economics, engineering, or a related field. A Master’s degree is preferred but not required.
Experience:
- Minimum of six years of professional experience in management consulting, change management, investment banking, or private equity, with a focus on strategy development and implementation.
- Prior experience in international organizations, particularly within the United Nations system, is highly desirable.
Skills and Competencies:
- Strong understanding of change management principles and business innovation practices, with demonstrated expertise in process optimization and strategic planning.
- Advanced analytical skills, including proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., Excel) and the ability to generate actionable insights from complex data sets.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate complex ideas and strategies to diverse audiences.
- Proven leadership abilities, with experience in guiding multidisciplinary teams and driving organizational change in a global context.
- Strong interpersonal skills and cultural sensitivity, with the ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues from diverse backgrounds and professional disciplines.
Languages:
- Fluency in English is required. Knowledge of another official UN language is an asset.
Visa Requirements:
- WFP supports visa applications for the position based in Rome, Italy.
Application Process
Female applicants and qualified candidates from developing countries are encouraged to apply. WFP is committed to diversity and inclusivity, promoting equal employment opportunities for all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or HIV/AIDS status.
Keywords
Change Management, Business Innovation, Project Management, Strategy Development, UN Reform, Process Optimization, Data Analysis, Leadership, Team Management, International Organizations, Humanitarian Sector, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Global Food Security, Rome, Italy.
Join Us
Make a meaningful impact with WFP’s BIU in Rome. Apply now and contribute to achieving Zero Hunger by 2030 through innovative solutions and strategic leadership in humanitarian operations.
