Inspector-General

Job Description

Inspector General )

Organizational Setting

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) contributes to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda through FAO’s Strategic Framework by supporting the transformation to more efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable agri‑food systems, for better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life, leaving no one behind.

The Office of the Inspector General (OIG) provides oversight of FAO's programmes and operations through internal audit and investigations. OIG investigates allegations of misconduct involving FAO personnel and allegations of sanctionable actions involving third parties. OIG’s investigation mandate covers misconduct such as fraud, corruption, abuse of privileges and immunities; sexual exploitation and abuse; sexual harassment; workplace harassment and abuse of authority; retaliation against whistle‑blowers; or any other conduct not in conformity with the Standards of Conduct for the International Civil Service. OIG also prepares reports to the Director‑General and Senior Management on lessons learned and proactive integrity reviews and promotes policies and activities that enhance the integrity of FAO’s operations.

Inclusion and Diversity

• FAO is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality, background and culture.
• Qualified female applicants, qualified nationals of non‑and under‑represented Members and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
• Everyone who works for FAO is required to adhere to the highest standards of integrity and professional conduct, and to uphold FAO's values.
• FAO, as a Specialized Agency of the United Nations, has a zero‑tolerance policy for conduct that is incompatible with its status, objectives and mandate, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination.
• All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks.
• All applications will be treated with the strictest confidentiality.
• FAO staff are subject to the authority of the Director‑General, who may assign them to any of the activities or offices of the Organization.

Summary of Duties and Functions

Reporting directly to the Director‑General, the Inspector‑General independently designs, organizes and directs a coordinated programme of internal oversight of the programmes and operations of the Organization, through internal audit and investigation. This includes:

• Evaluating the adequacy and effectiveness of the Organization's governance, risk management and internal controls.
• Advising the Director‑General on the functions and programmes audited with independent and objective assurance through systematic assessment, with a view to adding value and improving the Organization’s accountability and overall management and operations.
• Providing the strategic direction for the management and implementation of audit and investigations.
• Developing, organising and directing the implementation of a long‑term strategy and a risk‑based internal audit plan in alignment with FAO’s Strategic Framework, Risk Profile and Programme of Work and Budget (PWB).
• Ensuring allegations of misconduct by FAO personnel and third parties are properly assessed and investigated in a professional and timely manner.
• Sharing initiatives through dissemination and promotion of the Office's findings and lessons learned for programme and policy formulation.
• Managing OIG's financial and human resources efficiently and effectively.
• Establishing and maintaining a quality assurance and improvement programme to ensure OIG functions meet established international standards of professional practice.
• Reporting to the FAO Finance Committee on OIG's activities, including significant oversight results.
• Representing the Organization in oversight matters (audit and investigation).
• Performing other related duties as required.

In discharging his/her responsibilities, the Inspector General takes advice from the Oversight Advisory Committee.

Qualifications

Candidates will be assessed against the following

• Advanced University Degree (Master’s level or equivalent) in Auditing, Accounting, Law, Business or Public Administration or Management or other relevant fields.
• A first‑level university degree may be considered for applicants with a professional certification from an internationally recognized auditing and accountancy body, such as Chartered Accountant, Certified Public Accountant.
• Certified Internal Auditor designation is desirable and additional professional certifications (such as CISA, CFE, CMA or equivalent) are an advantage.
• Extensive experience in a complex oversight function, preferably in an international environment, of which at least ten years at an executive level or as Chief Audit Executive (CAE).
• High‑level and progressively responsible professional experience in a large organization with the use of innovative and cutting‑edge auditing and management techniques and approaches to facilitate effectiveness and efficiency of the Office.
• Demonstrated leadership and managerial skills of a high order with maturity and ability to apply judgment in the exercise of professional independence.
• Ability to handle complex and/or sensitive issues with diplomacy, confidentiality, and sensitivity to the interests of staff and the Organization.
• Familiarity with the UN system or similar international institutions.
• Experience in working with decentralized offices is an advantage.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with people of different national and cultural background.
• Working knowledge (proficiency - level C) of English and intermediate knowledge (intermediate proficiency - level B) of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian or Spanish).

Leadership Competencies

• Results focus: Takes accountability for the delivery of agreed results in service of FAO’s strategic framework.
• Leading, engaging and empowering others: Coordinates, directs, facilitates and recognises team efforts; creates an enabling environment and assists others to realise and develop their potential.
• Communication: Encourages and contributes to clear and open communication.
• Partnering and advocating: Promotes ideas and develops partnerships to advance the Organization’s work.
• Knowledge sharing and continuous improvement: Continually seeks to improve the knowledge, skills and work processes of oneself and others.
• Strategic thinking: Makes informed and coherent decisions aligned with broader goals and strategies.

Please note that all candidates should adhere to FAO values of Commitment to FAO, Respect for all and Integrity and Transparency.

General Information

• FAO reserves the right not to make an appointment.
• Appointment will be subject to certification that the candidate is medically fit for appointment, accreditation, any residency or visa requirements, and security clearances.

Benefits

• Dependency allowances
• Education grant for children
• Home leave travel
• 30 working days of annual leave per year
• Pension fund entitlements under the UN Joint Staff Pension Fund
• International health insurance; optional life insurance
• Disability protection

Workplace Culture

FAO encourages a positive workplace culture to increase inclusivity and diversity within its workforce. FAO applies measures in which all staff members contribute equally and in full to the work and development of the Organization. This includes elements of family‑friendly policies, flexible working arrangements and standards of conduct.