Sector Officer - Local Development and Social Affairs - FMO

Scope

The EEA and Norway Grants operates through multi-year funding cycles, with Beneficiary States responsible for implementing the programmes. The FMO oversees and supports the implementation based on risk assessment and a results-based management approach.

As a Sector Officer, you will ensure progress in the development and implementation of programmes, providing expert advice to Donors and Beneficiary States.  You will manage a portfolio of programmes, leading programme teams within the FMO that cover results, legal, financial, communication, and country-specific issues. Building relationships with stakeholders based on trust is fundamental to the role of the Sector Officer.

The new Sector Officer will support the Beneficiary States in the development of programmes under the new funding period. Additionally, the new Officer will assist in closing programmes in the previous funding period and assessing their results, including providing sector analysis.

The Local Development and Social Affairs portfolio mainly includes two programme areas supporting more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable communities and public health systems:

• Local development, Good Governance and Inclusion
• Public Health

In Local development, Good governance and Inclusion, the Grants focus on local investments in green initiatives, climate action, digital transitions, fostering resilience and strengthening local governance. The Grants promote socio-economic inclusion, equality, and diversity, and actively engage disadvantaged communities.

In Public Health, the Grants focus on the development of public health systems, combat antimicrobial resistance, and promote mental well-being. The Grants support women's health, address gender-based violence, and strengthen patient rights. 

Focus on gender equality and digitalisation is relevant across the thematic areas and in some of the Beneficiary States, Roma inclusion and empowerment is especially relevant. You may also work with additional focus areas of the Grants.

As part of your role, you will also engage in travel. You will report to the Head of Unit.

Tasks:

As the Sector Officer for Local Development and Social Affairs, your role will include:

• Monitoring sector developments and providing strategic advice: You will keep abreast of developments within the sectors and offer advice to Donors and Beneficiary States to ensure that the programmes align with the priorities of the Grants.
• Programme development and implementation: You will oversee and manage a portfolio of programmes, supporting their development and implementation. You will lead programme teams in the FMO.
• Primary liaison with Programme Operators: You will maintain regular communication with Programme Operators in the Beneficiary States. Clear and effective communication, along with strong collaboration, are crucial in this role.
• Assessing and supporting strategic cooperation:  You will contribute to strategic relevance cooperation between institutions in the Donor and the Beneficiary States, aiming to optimise the overall impact.
• Engaging with Donors:  You will lead the dialogue with Donors, providing updates on programme development, implementation, and sharing results.
• Additional responsibilities: You will manage any other duties as required, adapting to the dynamic needs of the role and of the organisation.

Qualifications

A Master’s-level university degree in a relevant field.

Experience

Required:

• At least six years of relevant work experience from public administration, preferably at local /regional level, and/or from working with an international organisation.

Desired:

• A combination of work experience from public sector, local/regional level and international organisation is considered an asset.
• Experience with programme and/or grant management.
• Work experience in relevant field/sector in one of the Donor States.
• Work experience in relevant field/sector in one of the Beneficiary States or at EU level.
• Experience with leading teams and coordinating processes.

Skills

• Knowledge of Donors’ policies and priorities within her/his areas of responsibility.
• Knowledge of EU policies and programmes in her/his field of expertise. 
• Knowledge and/or experience in the area of social affairs and social empowerment is of specific interest.
• Knowledge of this area in one or more of the Beneficiary States is an asset.
• Excellent analytical and communication skills.
• Strong diplomatic and negotiating skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including a flexible, pragmatic and result-oriented attitude, and cultural sensitivity.
• Ability to work proactively and efficiently under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Good understanding of results-based management is an asset

Languages

Excellent oral and written communication skills in English (the working language of the FMO).  Fluency in any of the Donor State languages and knowledge of any of the Beneficiary State languages would be an advantage.

Employment Terms

Grade: A4
Annual starting salary: EUR 112,786

Appointments are normally made at step 1 of the grade. The Director of the FMO reserves the right to appoint a candidate at a level different from that advertised.

The FMO is an employer dedicated to the principles of diversity and equality. We are committed to promoting and nurturing a diverse and inclusive workplace, with a healthy work-life balance.

We offer very interesting and challenging positions in a dynamic and diverse environment and the opportunity to work in a team of highly qualified people. Salaries and related payments are exempt from taxation by the EFTA Member States, and as regulated in headquarters agreements, in the EFTA host states. Depending on the candidate’s family status, benefits and allowances may apply.

For questions related to the recruitment process, please contact us by writing to fmorecruitment@efta.int.

Deadline for submission of applications: 9 June 2025