Senior Programme Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) was established on December 14, 1950, by the UN General Assembly. Its mission is to lead and coordinate international action to protect refugees and resolve refugee problems worldwide. UNHCR's primary purpose is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, ensuring that everyone can exercise the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another State. The organization operates in numerous countries, providing support to refugees and displaced persons, and has been present in Zambia since 1967, where it assists the government in creating a protective environment for asylum-seekers and refugees. UNHCR has three field offices in Zambia and a Representational Office in Lusaka, and it plays a crucial role in the country's refugee management policies and practices.

Job Overview:
The Senior Programme Associate is a pivotal role within UNHCR, responsible for overseeing and managing various aspects of program implementation and monitoring. This position requires the incumbent to work closely with senior program staff and supervise support staff, ensuring that all activities align with UNHCR's operational guidelines and the specific needs of forcibly displaced persons. The Senior Programme Associate will engage in a multi-functional team approach, collaborating with various stakeholders to ensure effective program management. The role involves assessing the needs of persons of concern, managing partnerships, and ensuring compliance with UNHCR's financial and operational standards. The incumbent will also be responsible for developing project proposals, monitoring program performance, and contributing to the strategic direction of UNHCR's operations in Zambia. This position demands a proactive approach to identifying challenges and opportunities within the operational context, ensuring that programs are responsive to the evolving needs of the refugee population.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Programme Associate will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: supporting the assessment and analysis of the needs of persons of concern using an Age, Gender, and Diversity (AGD) perspective; managing the development of partnerships and ensuring compliance with partnership agreements; reviewing the implementation and performance of these agreements through field visits; contributing to the planning process in line with UNHCR's guidelines; generating and maintaining records of program performance; assisting in negotiating and drafting partnership agreements; ensuring compliance with audit requirements; utilizing UNHCR's corporate tools for planning and reporting; and actively contributing to the continuous improvement of programming tools and processes. The incumbent will also be expected to identify and manage risks, ensuring that decision-making is informed by a thorough understanding of the operational landscape.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of four years of relevant experience with a High School Diploma, or two years of relevant work experience with a Bachelor's degree or higher. Essential qualifications include demonstrated experience in program management, knowledge of Results-Based Management, and proficiency in MS Office applications, particularly advanced Excel skills. Desirable qualifications include completion of UNHCR Learning Programs relevant to the position, such as Programme Management Level 1 and training in partnership management. The candidate should also have strong communication skills, both verbal and written, and the ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a High School Diploma with extensive relevant experience or a Bachelor's degree or higher in a related field. While specific fields of education are not specified, candidates are expected to have a strong foundation in program management and related disciplines that support the functions of the Senior Programme Associate role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of four years of relevant experience for candidates with a High School Diploma, or two years for those with a Bachelor's degree or higher. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in program management, particularly in humanitarian or development contexts, and should be familiar with the operational management cycle and results-based management principles. Experience in training and capacity building for partners is also essential, along with a proven ability to coordinate effectively with various stakeholders.

Languages:
Knowledge of English is mandatory, and candidates should also be familiar with the UN working language of the duty station if it is not English. For General Service jobs, knowledge of English and/or the UN working language is required, and familiarity with the local language is advantageous. Candidates are expected to have at least a B2 level proficiency in the required languages, ensuring effective communication in a diverse working environment.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified at the GS7 level and is a regular assignment with a target start date of September 1, 202

• The role is full-time and based in Lusaka, Zambia. The incumbent will be expected to work collaboratively with various teams and stakeholders, contributing to the overall mission of UNHCR in providing protection and support to forcibly displaced persons. The position may involve travel to field locations and requires a commitment to upholding UNHCR's core values of professionalism, integrity, and respect for diversity. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, and they may be required to undergo a written test and/or oral interview as part of the selection process.