Programme Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which is a global development network advocating for change and connecting countries to knowledge, experience, and resources to help people build a better life. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. The organization focuses on various areas including democratic governance, peacebuilding, climate change, and disaster resilience, and has a mission to empower lives and build resilient nations.

Job Overview:
The Programme Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Small Grants Programme (SGP), which is managed by UNDP. This position involves contributing to the day-to-day operations of the programme, ensuring that all activities align with the expected results and objectives. The assistant will work closely with the National Coordinator (NC) to prescreen project proposals, assist in the development of grant application forms, and provide guidance to potential grantees. The role also includes maintaining relationships with various stakeholders, including NGOs and governmental institutions, and ensuring that all financial and administrative processes are adhered to. The Programme Assistant will be involved in monitoring and evaluation activities, supporting the organization of meetings and events, and contributing to knowledge management efforts within the SGP framework.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme Assistant include:

• Supporting day-to-day programme/project implementation and ensuring conformity to expected results and objectives.
• Assisting the National Coordinator in prescreening project concepts and evaluating financial aspects of project proposals.
• Advising potential grantees on project preparation processes and reporting on project development activities.
• Providing guidance and support to ongoing projects and their grantees.
• Assisting in project implementation, grievance redress mechanisms, and monitoring and evaluation activities.
• Organizing and preparing minutes for National Steering Committee meetings and other SGP events.
• Maintaining professional relationships with NGOs, governmental institutions, and other stakeholders.
• Supporting the NC in reporting to the Central Programme Management Team and preparing annual monitoring surveys.
• Drafting operational documents and maintaining project databases. 1
• Providing financial management support, including reviewing financial reports and processing payment requests. 1
• Managing office supplies and administrative tasks, including maintaining filing systems and supporting event organization. 1
• Contributing to knowledge management and communication efforts, including drafting articles and maintaining the SGP website.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Programme Assistant position include:

• Secondary education is required; a first-level university degree in Business or Public Administration, Environmental and Social Science is an advantage.
• A certificate in Business Administration, Accounting, or Finance is a distinctive advantage.
• Demonstrated experience in reviewing and editing documents, producing meeting reports, and supporting project management.
• Knowledge of monitoring and evaluation tools and experience in handling web-based management systems is desirable.
• Proficiency in using office software packages, particularly MS Word and Excel, is essential.
• Experience in providing operational support, including event management and logistics, is an advantage.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess at least a secondary education. A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Business Administration, Public Administration, Environmental Science, or Social Science will be considered favorably. Additionally, a certificate in Business Administration, Accounting, or Finance will provide a competitive edge.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of progressively responsible administrative or programme experience at the national or international level for candidates with secondary education. For those with a bachelor’s degree, a minimum of two years of relevant experience is required. Experience in project management at the community level, monitoring and evaluation, and financial management is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in French is mandatory, along with a working knowledge of English. Alternatively, candidates may be fluent in English with a working knowledge of French. Proficiency in both languages is highly beneficial for effective communication within the organization and with stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Yaounde, Cameroon, and is expected to adhere to UNDP's standards of conduct, including a commitment to diversity and inclusion. The organization emphasizes equal opportunity and does not tolerate harassment or discrimination. The role may involve occasional travel and participation in events and meetings. UNDP reserves the right to select multiple candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for similar positions in the future. The recruitment process does not involve any fees.