IT Solutions Associate, SC6 (Innovations Product Manager) at World Food Programme (WFP)

STANDARD MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education: Completion of secondary education. University degree in related field or equivalent will be an added advantage.

Language: Fluency in oral and written English. Knowledge of Kiswahili is of value.

ORGANIZATIONAL CONTEXT

The Innovation Product Manager will be under the direct supervision of the Head of Innovations, and will support the Country Office in managing innovation projects piloted by the Innovation Unit. 

At this level job holders are expected to demonstrate responsibility and initiative to respond independently to queries with only general guidance. There is a requirement to use judgment in dealing with unforeseen problems on a daily basis.

JOB PURPOSE

To provide technical support on the development, maintenance, testing and implementation of a portion of IT solutions in line with business requirements.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES (not all-inclusive)

• Provide support to project managers on selection of high potential innovation projects and design and execution of pilot projects.
• Participate and carry out discussions with managers in other units to align on project scope and objectives.
• Support, advise, and coach project teams during ideation and product design including on technological elements.
• Liaise with client units to develop and maintain product roadmaps.
• Guide and advise teams on key decisions regarding product features and technology options.
• Provide support to rapid prototyping of digital components of innovation projects.
• Source the right partner to rapidly develop technological components of the pilot projects under the innovation portfolio.
• Support product testing and improvements as required.
• Provide early life support of technological components of pilot projects under the innovation portfolio.
• Create and maintain documentation of all technological components of innovation projects.
• Ensure development of all technological components follow WFP’s policies and guidelines.
• Provide advisory services to project managers on high potential advances in technology and their uses in innovation projects.

DELIVERABLES AT THE END OF THE CONTRACT

By the end of the contract period we expect:

• Up-to-date Product Roadmap for all digital solutions in the innovation unit portfolio.
• Product Backlog well-structured in Epics, Features, and User Stories.
• User Stories that pass the “Definition of Ready”.
• Lessons learned documented from solution testing and prototyping.
• User manuals for all digital solutions in the innovation unit portfolio; and
• Technical documentation of all digital solutions in the innovation unit portfolio.

DESIRED EXPERIENCES FOR ENTRY INTO THE ROLE

We are looking for;

• You have a high affinity with the Kenyan innovation space; and you ideally have some start-up-related experience
• A self-starter. You are full of initiative and great ideas.
• You need little guidance, are comfortable working independently but are also a great team player.
• Ability to multitask. You like variety in your work and are willing to tackle different challenges when the opportunity arises.
• An organiser with great attention to detail; you are a meticulous planner but are flexible enough to change course when the situation requires you to do so.
• Driven by impact. Achieving impact through your job is important to you, and you are passionate about working towards achieving zero hunger.

Experience: At least five years of relevant, progressively responsible, fullstack experience

Knowledge & Skills:

• In-depth knowledge of agile software development.
• Good UX/UI design skills.
• Strong business writing and professional verbal communication skills.
• Highly organized with the ability to multitask and prioritize.
• Microsoft Office Suite knowledge.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and advance to the next stage of the selection process.
• The World Food Programme DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS.
• WFP embraces diversity and equal opportunity. We are committed to building a team that celebrates diversity and inclusivity in all ways. 
• All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications and merit.
• Applicants profile MUST match the C.V attached. Any discrepancies between the C.V and the profile will lead to automatic disqualification.

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS

• Applications for this position will close at 11:59 p.m. (East African Time) on 23 August 2021.