Compliance Specialist (6-Month Assignment)

About the role

FAO Malawi is looking for a Compliance Specialist for a 6-month assignment in Lilongwe, reporting directly to the FAO Representative and working with Operations, Procurement, Finance, Programme, Monitoring and Evaluation and Field Office teams. The post strengthens compliance, risk management, internal controls, quality assurance and accountability across administrative, financial, operational and programme activities.

Key responsibilities

• Integrate risk management, compliance, quality assurance and accountability measures into FAO Malawi operations and programme implementation.
• Review operational, administrative, financial and procurement processes against FAO rules, regulations and procedures.
• Advise the FAO Representative on strengthening internal controls, governance and mitigation of compliance risks.
• Conduct risk assessments, update the risk register and monitor mitigation actions, including inputs to performance planning and review.
• Coordinate with Country Office units, Field Offices, the Regional Office and Headquarters to identify compliance gaps, develop control checklists and standard operating procedures.
• Maintain FAO Malawi compliance and risk logs through a risk-based monitoring approach.
• Carry out field visits and spot checks at Field Offices and project sites, and write concise mission reports with findings, risks and corrective actions.
• Promote consistent application of FAO policies and standards of conduct through day-to-day guidance, answering compliance queries and supporting staff learning.

Required profile

• Advanced university degree from an IAU/UNESCO-recognized institution in business, financial management, procurement, law, economics or a closely related field; consultants with a bachelor's degree need two additional years of relevant experience.
• At least 10 years of relevant professional experience; direct experience in compliance-related responsibilities within UN organizations is an added advantage.
• Working knowledge (level C) of English.
• Demonstrated experience in compliance-related responsibilities such as contracts management, operations and procurement.

Required skills

• Good knowledge of IT skills in forensic audit and fraud prevention.
• Good knowledge of administration and process flows.
• Familiarity with FAO rules and regulations and compliance issues is an advantage.