Description

The Pacific Community (SPC) is the principal scientific and technical organisation in the Pacific region, supporting development since 1947. We are an international development organisation owned and governed by our 27 country and territory members. In pursuit of sustainable development to benefit Pacific people, our organisation works across more than 25 sectors. We are known for our knowledge and innovation in such areas as fisheries science, public health, geoscience, and conservation of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture.

The Geoscience Energy and Maritime (GEM) Division provides advice, technical assistance, research and training support to Pacific Island countries and territories (PICTs). There are three (3) areas of scientific programming and two areas of focus within this division:

1. Oceans and Maritime Programme (OMP) – assists member countries with services that provide applied ocean science and knowledge for evidence-based policy-making and technical solutions for improved ocean and maritime governance, management, and capacity development.
2. Georesources and Energy Programme (GEP) – assists member countries by applying technical knowledge in the areas of geoscience and sustainable energy use.
3. Disaster and Community Resilience Programme (DCRP) – assists member countries to demonstrate strengthened resilience through integrated action on disaster risk management, climate change adaptation, natural resource management and increased access to water and sanitation.

The role – Knowledge Management Officer will play a crucial role in the Pacific Islands Emergency Management Alliance (PIEMA) project by developing and implementing effective knowledge management strategies. The primary objective is to lead the development and direct establishment of PIEMA’s knowledge management framework to enhance information sharing, collaboration, and organisational learning within the alliance, contributing to improved emergency management practices in the Pacific Islands region.

The key responsibilities of the role include:

Develop and operationalize PIEMA’s knowledge management framework

• Develop PIEMA’s knowledge management framework. This will involve the following; identify, document, and categorize existing knowledge within PIEMA, create a knowledge map to visualize the flow of information and identify knowledge gaps, and establish processes for capturing tacit knowledge from PIEMA members, SPC and external stakeholders.
• Ensure that relevant information is systematically recorded and accessible to all stakeholders.
• Contribute to PIEMA progress reporting (internal and external) in relation to the knowledge management framework.

Develop and implement effective knowledge management strategies across PIEMA members, SPC and external stakeholders

• Evaluate and recommend appropriate knowledge sharing platforms and tools.
• Facilitate training sessions to ensure stakeholders are proficient in using the knowledge management initiatives.
• Regularly evaluate and report on the impact of knowledge management activities.
• Collaborate with PIEMA members to integrate knowledge management into their planning and operations.

Capacity Development and staff management

• Develop training programs to enhance knowledge management skills among the PIEMA program team, PIEMA members and other relevant stakeholders.
• Provide ongoing support and guidance to individuals and teams in adopting knowledge management practices.
• Continuously assess and improve knowledge management processes based on feedback and industry best practices.

Build and maintain stakeholder relations

• Foster a culture of collaboration and knowledge exchange among PIEMA members, internally within SPC and externally with relevant stakeholders.
• Facilitate regular forums, workshops, and virtual meetings for information sharing.

For a more detailed account of the key responsibilities, please refer to the online job description.

Key selection criteria

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in knowledge management, information science, or related field.

Technical expertise

• Minimum of 5 years relevant work experience in knowledge management, information management, or a related field.
• Proven experience in developing and operationalising knowledge management frameworks.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing knowledge management strategies in complex organisations.
• Familiarity with disaster management practices is highly desirable.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, SharePoint, Social Media platforms and other information, communications and knowledge management tools and systems.

Language skills

• Excellent English communication skills (oral and written).

Interpersonal skills and cultural awareness

• Ability to work in a multicultural, inclusive and equitable environment.

Salary, terms and conditions

Contract Duration – 3 years – subject to renewal depending on funding and performance.

Remuneration – The Knowledge Management Officer is a band 9 position in SPC’s 2024 salary scale, with a starting salary range of 2,284‒2,856 SDR (special drawing rights) per month, which currently converts to approximately FJD 6,808–8,509 (USD 3,038–3,798; EUR 2,832–3,540). An offer of appointment for an initial contract will normally be made in the lower half of this range, with due consideration given to experience and qualifications. Progression within the salary scale will be based on annual performance reviews. Remuneration of expatriate SPC staff members is not subject to income tax in Fiji; Fiji nationals employed by SPC in Fiji will be subject to income tax.

Benefits for international employees based in Fiji – SPC provides a housing allowance of FJD 1,350–3,000 per month. Establishment and repatriation grant, removal expenses, airfares, home leave travel, health and life and disability insurances and education allowances are available for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Employees are entitled to 25 working days of annual leave per annum and other types of leave, and access to SPC’s Provident Fund (contributing 8% of salary, to which SPC adds a matching contribution).

Languages – SPC’s working languages are English and French.

Recruitment principles – SPC’s recruitment is based on merit and fairness, and candidates are competing in a selection process that is fair, transparent, and non-discriminatory. SPC is an equal-opportunity employer, and is committed to cultural and gender diversity, including bilingualism, and will seek to attract and appoint candidates who respect these values. Due attention is given to gender equity and the maintenance of strong representation from Pacific Island professionals. If two interviewed candidates are ranked equal by the selection panel, preference will be given to the Pacific Islander. Applicants will be assured of complete confidentiality in line with SPC’s Privacy Policy.