The World Food Programme (WFP) is inviting applications for the position of Programme Policy Officer (Emergency Response), SC8, based in Malakal, South Sudan. This full-time role is offered under a 12-month Service Contract, renewable subject to performance and budget availability. The deadline for applications is 25 January 2026 at 23:59 (GMT+02:00, Juba time). This opportunity is open exclusively to qualified South Sudanese nationals, with female candidates strongly encouraged to apply. About the World Food Programme WFP is the world’s largest humanitarian organisation and a 2020 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, working to save lives in emergencies and build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people affected by conflict, climate change, and disasters. Operating in over 80 countries, WFP reaches more than 90 million people annually through life-saving food assistance, nutrition support, and resilience-building programmes. WFP is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and high-performing workforce guided by its core values of Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion. Country and Operational Context Greater Upper Nile is among the most complex humanitarian contexts in South Sudan, marked by prolonged conflict, large-scale displacement, climate shocks, and severe food insecurity. The Malakal Field Office covers multiple counties across Upper Nile State and parts of Jonglei State, delivering a wide range of interventions including: General food assistance through in-kind and cash-based transfers Emergency response for displaced and conflict-affected populations Malnutrition prevention, including blanket supplementary feeding School meals and nutrition support Resilience and livelihoods-building initiatives Role Purpose Reporting to the Head of Programme in Malakal, the Programme Policy Officer (Emergency Response) will lead the planning, coordination, implementation, monitoring, and reporting of all emergency and unconditional food assistance activities within the field office’s area of responsibility. The role plays a critical function in aligning emergency response operations with WFP South Sudan’s strategic objectives, particularly the transition from humanitarian assistance to resilience and reduced long-term needs. Key Responsibilities Emergency Coordination and Strategy Lead field-level coordination of emergency responses across Upper Nile and northern Jonglei Support contingency planning, preparedness, and operational readiness Monitor emerging humanitarian, food security, and socio-political risks Represent WFP in inter-agency coordination mechanisms, including the Food Security and Livelihoods Cluster Support engagement with state-level line ministries to strengthen food security responses and policy dialogue Build and maintain strategic partnerships to enhance response effectiveness and complementarity Distribution and Programme Management Lead project design, proposal reviews, budget oversight, and partner performance management Serve as the primary focal point for cooperating partners implementing emergency activities Manage operational data related to unconditional assistance, including annual planning and monthly distribution cycles Coordinate with logistics teams to ensure timely and accurate delivery of assistance Oversee distributions, ensuring compliance, accountability, visibility, and community engagement Review and validate partner reports and distribution data to ensure accuracy and reliability Ensure full compliance with WFP systems, tools, and corporate policies Produce timely and high-quality internal and external reports, dashboards, and data visualisations Leadership and Capacity Strengthening Conduct field visits to monitor implementation, document best practices, and support corrective actions Contribute to evidence generation, learning, and programme adaptation Support capacity building of WFP staff, partners, and government counterparts Provide technical guidance to programme support staff Act as Officer-in-Charge for the Programme Unit when required Required Qualifications and Experience Education Advanced university degree in humanitarian response, disaster management, rural development, or a related field A first university degree with additional relevant experience may be considered Experience Minimum one year of relevant postgraduate experience with a master’s degree, or three years with a bachelor’s degree Proven experience in emergency preparedness, humanitarian response, or programme coordination in complex settings Skills and Competencies Strong understanding of conflict dynamics in South Sudan High level of initiative, judgement, and ability to work independently under pressure Strong analytical, coordination, and problem-solving skills Proven ability to manage large datasets and complex spreadsheets Strong interpersonal, intercultural, and communication skills Knowledge of humanitarian principles and UN rules and procedures Languages Fluency in English (Level C) Proficiency in at least one relevant local language Inclusion, Safeguarding, and Integrity WFP is committed to equal employment opportunity and maintaining a workplace free from discrimination, harassment, sexual exploitation, and abuse. All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks. WFP also provides reasonable accommodation for candidates with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. Application Process Applications must be submitted exclusively through WFP’s online recruitment platform. Only a CV and cover letter are required at this stage. Incomplete or email submissions will not be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Why This Role Matters This position offers a unique opportunity to lead life-saving emergency operations in one of the most challenging humanitarian contexts globally. The Programme Policy Officer will directly contribute to protecting lives, strengthening coordination, and supporting communities on the path from crisis to resilience. 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