Emergency Preparedness & Response Officer – Dakar/Diamniadio, Senegal
Location: Dakar/Diamniadio, Senegal
Contract Type: Fixed Term – National Officer Level B (NOB)
Unit/Division: Programme – Emergency Preparedness & Response (EPR)
Application Deadline: 21 December 2025
Employer: World Food Programme (WFP)
Organizational Context
West and Central Africa are experiencing escalating food insecurity driven by conflict, climate shocks, and economic instability. Currently, over 36 million people are affected, with numbers projected to exceed 52 million during the June–August 2025 lean season. Vulnerable populations, particularly refugees and internally displaced persons, are disproportionately impacted.
To address these challenges, WFP aims to reach 11.7 million people in 2025. The Regional Office for Western and Central Africa (WACARO) in Dakar provides strategic and technical guidance to operations across 19 countries in the region.
Role Purpose
Reporting to the Senior Regional EPR Officer, the Emergency Preparedness & Response Officer will provide technical support to the Regional EPR team and Country Offices. The role focuses on data analysis, information management, quality assurance, and coordination of emergency preparedness and response initiatives to strengthen regional emergency readiness and response efforts.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, review, and coordinate emergency preparedness and contingency plans, ensuring compliance with WFP policies and global humanitarian standards.
- Support emergency response initiatives, including training programs, simulation exercises, and operational planning.
- Maintain regular communication with EPR focal points in Country Offices to monitor operational needs and share timely updates with Regional and Global Headquarters.
- Assist in sudden-onset emergencies by escalating critical information and facilitating rapid deployment of resources.
- Support strategic partnerships, including MoUs and stakeholder engagement, to enhance collaborative emergency response.
- Design and manage emergency data collection systems, early warning indicators, and risk monitoring tools.
- Conduct research and analysis on disaster risks, vulnerabilities, and operational effectiveness to inform preparedness strategies.
- Contribute to the preparation of regional and global emergency reports, including Hunger Hotspot reports, Risk Outlooks, and Operational Response Plans.
- Coordinate with internal units, UN agencies, NGOs, and government bodies to ensure effective emergency response collaboration.
- Support capacity-building initiatives for WFP staff, partners, and government institutions to enhance readiness and operational effectiveness.
- Provide technical guidance to Country Offices on emergency operations, including field missions and surge support.
- Ensure robust information management, documentation, and knowledge sharing across the region.
- Perform additional duties related to EPR as required by the Regional Team.
Required Skills & Competencies
- Strong communication, reporting, and facilitation skills
- Analytical thinking and data management capabilities
- Proficiency with databases and standard office software
- Ability to perform under pressure and meet tight deadlines
- Adaptability to security-challenging and rapidly changing environments
Qualifications & Experience
Education:
- Advanced university degree (Master’s or higher) in social sciences, development studies, international relations, economics, political science, engineering, or related fields
Languages:
- Fluency in English and French (C level)
Experience:
- Minimum 3 years of postgraduate experience in development, humanitarian assistance, food aid, emergency preparedness, or disaster response
- Experience in contingency planning, early warning systems, food needs assessment, and budget/program management
- Desirable: familiarity with the UN system and previous experience with WFP
How to Apply
Submit your application via the WFP recruitment portal before 21 December 2025. Applications should include a CV and cover letter. Additional documentation may be requested at a later stage.
