Overview
The Food Standards Officer is responsible for the effective and efficient planning, preparation, implementation, and follow-up of the work of specific subsidiary bodies of the Codex Alimentarius Commission to develop food safety and quality standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Leads the Codex Secretariat team or supports the first officer of various Codex subsidiary bodies, including preparation of agendas, technical documents, and reports.
- Monitors progress of the Commission's work, including standards development and implementation of the Codex Strategic Plan.
- Prepares final standards drafted by subsidiary bodies for publication.
- Prepares technical papers and reports for the Commission and its Executive Committee.
- Represents the Joint FAO/WHO Food Standards Programme at meetings of other bodies.
- Participates in the work of international expert bodies convened by FAO and WHO.
- Oversees and advises on the review of applications for observer status of international organizations in Codex.
- Provides technical advice and information concerning food standards and related matters.
- Contributes to the ongoing improvement of Codex policy and procedures.
- Leads the Codex Secretariat team for at least three Codex subsidiary bodies, ensuring all activities are implemented in line with procedural requirements.
- Works closely with other Food Standards Officers to support the work of other subsidiary bodies and facilitate information exchange.
- Liaises with the Secretariats of relevant FAO/WHO scientific advice bodies.
- Acts as focal point and coordinates engagement of the Codex Secretariat in specific FAO and WHO initiatives, as well as specific external organizations.
- Supports the development and dissemination of information for delegates.
- Contributes to communication activities associated with standard setting areas, including interviews, presentations, and articles.
- Performs other duties, as required.
Required Experience
- Seven years of relevant experience in the development and application of food standards and food control programmes at national, regional or global level.
- Work experience in more than one location or area of work, particularly in field positions, is desirable.
- Extent and relevance of experience in the development and application of food standards and food control programmes, in relation to food safety and quality, at national, regional or global level.
- Extent of overall understanding of the work of the Codex Alimentarius Commission and demonstrated technical knowledge in one of more of the areas covered by Codex food safety and quality standards.
- Extent and relevance of experience in analysing technical information and challenges, preparing clear reports and providing solutions and options for progress.
- Extent of experience in organizing and coordinating meetings, especially at global or regional level.
- Experience in intergovernmental and/or cross-sectoral negotiations and multilateral fora related to food safety and trade.
Qualifications
• Advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in food science, public health, biological sciences, veterinary medicine, agriculture science, nutrition or a related field.
