JOB PURPOSE:
Provide support in the establishment of risk management activities; contribute to the application of controls and compliance with policies and procedures and to the overall effectiveness of operations and optimization of WFP resources.
Job Summary
- Employer: World Food Programme (WFP)
- Job Type: Contract
- Location: Lilongwe, Malawi
- Category: Risk Management
- Closing Date: 2026-10-10
Key Responsibilities
- Contribute to embedding risk management in planning and decision-making across the office and all aspects of WFP operations through monitoring of key risk appetite metrics and risk indicators, and regular updating of risk registers, including progress towards implementing the risk mitigation actions.
- Coordinate the collection of feedback, analyse data on risk performance and propose potential new implementation approaches.
- Support relevant managers in their regular and ad hoc risk assessments in country and field offices to: identify and evaluate risks; contribute to the development and design of mitigation actions; assess effectiveness of the internal controls; and prepare risk information for management to share with external stakeholders.
- Support the discussion with functional experts and risk management focal points on: identifying trends and emerging issues; contributing to the preparation of guidance and/or checklists in conformity with WFP policies and rules on periodic risk and/or control assessments;
- Utilize available risk management tools to link risk, oversight and evaluation information; review and analyze risk management activities, exposures and mitigation actions in draft Country Strategic Plan (CSP)/Interim CSP including budget revisions.
- Collect information/training needs and contribute to the preparation of training programmes or information sessions for colleagues and partners to enhance understanding of risk management and compliance with WFP policies, rules, regulations and procedures.
- Using the Three Lines Model, participate in the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) by First Line colleagues for managing the risk and accountability process, including criteria for conducting risk and accountability missions, training materials and modules, etc., to minimize risk to the organization.
- Contribute to management accountability across functional units, including through the preparation of comprehensive reports summarizing the status of compliance of internal controls, key oversight themes, and using risk information (e.g., risk indicators, incident reporting) to highlight areas out of risk appetite and contribute ideas on required actions in areas of risk and compliance vulnerability.
- Support the completion of the annual Executive Director’s Assurance exercise survey, collect and review inputs.
- Support managers to prepare and plan for Internal Audit and External Audit, collect essential documents, organize briefing meetings and follow-up on recommendations.
- Support the promotion and dissemination of the 2021 Revised Anti-Fraud and Anti- Corruption (AFAC) Policy and WFP’s adherence to Zero Tolerance for Inaction, including assisting managers in their fact-finding reviews and fraud risk assessments by collecting and analysing data on fraud incidents, fraud risk metrics, and fraud risk appetite, supporting training in AFAC standards.
- Other duties as required including potentially serving as Business Continuity Management (BCM) and Organizational Conflicts of Interest (OCI) focal point (e.g., supporting OCI avoidance plans and procedures).
Requirements
- Education: Advanced University degree in Finance, Business Administration, finance, accounting, audit or related fields, or First University degree in the same subject(s) with additional years of related work experience and/or training/courses in audit, performance and risk management or other related fields.
- Experience: At least three (3) or more years of post-graduate professional experience in Finance, audit and risk with an interest in international humanitarian development.
- Language: Fluency (level C) in English language.
How to Apply
REF Code: JR127041
About the Company
The World Food Programme (WFP) is an international organization within the United Nations (UN) that provides food assistance worldwide. It is the world's largest humanitarian organization and the leading provider of school meals. Founded in 1961, WFP is headquartered in Rome and has offices in 87 countries. In 2023 it supported over 152 million people, and it is present in more than 120 countries and territories.
Website: https://www.wfp.org/countries/malawi
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for a Risk & Compliance Officer role at an international organization like WFP in Malawi?
Most employers require a bachelor's degree in finance, law, business administration, or a related field. Professional certifications such as Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), or Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP) are highly valued. Experience with UN or NGO compliance frameworks is often preferred for international organizations operating in Malawi.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Risk & Compliance Officer in Malawi?
Daily tasks include conducting risk assessments, reviewing financial and operational procedures for compliance with organizational policies, and investigating reported irregularities. You will also prepare compliance reports, train staff on risk management protocols, and liaise with auditors and government regulators. Strong documentation and attention to detail are essential given Malawi's regulatory environment.
How does local work culture in Malawi affect the Risk & Compliance Officer role?
Malawian workplaces value relationship-building and respectful communication, so you must balance assertive compliance enforcement with diplomatic engagement. Hierarchical structures are common, meaning buy-in from senior leadership is crucial for effective risk implementation. Understanding local business practices and cultural norms helps in navigating compliance challenges sensitively.
What career progression opportunities exist for Risk & Compliance professionals in Malawi?
With experience, you can advance to Senior Risk Manager, Head of Compliance, or Regional Risk Advisor roles within international organizations. Some professionals transition into consultancy or join the Reserve Bank of Malawi and other regulatory bodies. Building expertise in humanitarian or development sector compliance opens doors across Eastern and Southern Africa.
What benefits are typically offered to Risk & Compliance Officers by international employers in Malawi?
Benefits usually include medical aid covering local and sometimes regional healthcare, pension or provident fund contributions, and annual leave ranging from 20 to 30 days. Many international organizations also provide hardship allowances, housing support, and education grants for dependents. Specific packages vary by employer and contract type.
How should I apply for a Risk & Compliance Officer position, and what do employers in Malawi prioritize?
Apply through official career portals and tailor your CV to highlight relevant compliance experience and certifications. Employers prioritize demonstrated integrity, analytical skills, and familiarity with donor regulations or public financial management. Strong references and a clean professional record are critical given the trust required in this role.