Programme Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for personal and professional development. UNICEF prides itself on a culture that helps staff thrive, coupled with an attractive compensation and benefits package.

Job Overview:
The Programme Assistant plays a crucial role in supporting the respective section(s) by carrying out a range of procedural, administrative, and operational tasks. This position is essential for the development, implementation, and monitoring of the country programme, ensuring timely and effective delivery that aligns with UNICEF's rules and regulations. The Programme Assistant will be responsible for various administrative tasks, including collecting invoices, maintaining records, managing office supplies, and providing travel assistance to staff members. This role requires a proactive approach to ensure that all tasks are completed efficiently and in accordance with organizational policies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Assistant will be responsible for the following key functions:

• Collecting invoices and filing documents for approval, processing them in VISION and Service Gateway.
• Preparing and maintaining records and documents for monitoring project/programme implementation and financial expenditures.
• Supporting the management of administrative supplies and office equipment.
• Maintaining the office calendar and arranging meetings, including taking minutes and organizing correspondence.
• Providing travel assistance to staff members, ensuring compliance with organizational rules and policies.
• Liaising with travel focal points to secure the best service and pricing for travel arrangements.
• Maintaining and updating a system to monitor staff absences.
• Preparing and maintaining records related to programme planning and development.
• Carrying out transactions in VISION to ensure alignment with annual work plans. 1
• Supporting capacity development activities by making logistical arrangements and preparing background materials for participants.

Required Qualifications:
The minimum requirements for this position include:

• Completion of secondary education is required, preferably supplemented by technical or university courses related to the work of the organization.
• A minimum of five years of progressively responsible administrative or clerical work experience is required.
• Fluency in English is mandatory, and knowledge of the local language is considered an asset.
• Thorough knowledge of UNICEF administrative policies and procedures is essential.
• Strong organizational, planning, and prioritizing skills are necessary, along with a high sense of confidentiality, initiative, and good judgment.
• Ability to work effectively with people from diverse national and cultural backgrounds.
• Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other UNICEF software such as SharePoint is required.
• Strong office management skills are essential.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have completed secondary education, with a preference for those who have pursued technical or university courses relevant to the work of UNICEF. This educational background is crucial for understanding the administrative and operational tasks required in this role.

Experience:
Candidates should possess a minimum of five years of progressively responsible administrative or clerical work experience. This experience is vital for ensuring that the Programme Assistant can effectively manage the diverse tasks associated with supporting the UNICEF programme.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within UNICEF. Knowledge of the local language is considered an asset, as it can enhance communication and collaboration with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to UNICEF's policies and procedures, including a zero-tolerance policy on conduct incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and UNICEF. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and adherence to UNICEF's standards and principles is mandatory. The appointment may require medical clearance and compliance with vaccination requirements, including against SARS-CoV-2 (Covid). UNICEF encourages a diverse workforce and offers flexible working arrangements. The organization does not charge any processing fees during the recruitment process.