Programme Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries, working to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization is committed to achieving three transformative results: ending preventable maternal deaths, ending unmet need for family planning, and ending gender-based violence and harmful practices. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 emphasizes the importance of addressing the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on women's and girls' access to health services and rights, while also striving to recover lost gains and achieve their goals. UNFPA values principled and ethical staff who embody international norms and standards, and who are committed to delivering high-impact results.

Job Overview:
The Programme Assistant plays a crucial role in supporting the effective planning and execution of UNFPA programme activities. This position requires a client- and results-oriented approach to interpreting rules, procedures, and guidelines related to administrative and programmatic processes. The Programme Assistant will provide logistical, administrative, and financial support to the country office and UNFPA-supported projects. Responsibilities include managing data, supporting the implementation of programmes and projects, and ensuring compliance with established policies and procedures. The role is integral to the successful execution of UNFPA's mission and requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and collaboration with various stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Assistant will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including supporting Programme Analysts and Technicians in administrative activities, providing logistical support for travel and meetings, managing disbursements and budget revisions, drafting information materials and terms of reference, and ensuring the integrity of procurement and payment documentation. The role also involves maintaining a tracking system for programme documents, verifying the availability of funds, and supporting the preparation of budgets and cost estimates. The Programme Assistant will alternate with the Procurement Officer and Administrative Assistant as needed, and carry out any other tasks as required to support the smooth operation of the country office.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have completed secondary education, with a first-level university degree in Business Administration, Public Accounting, or a related field being highly valued. A minimum of five years of experience in assistance projects, particularly within international cooperation organizations, is required. Candidates should have experience in logistical, administrative, and financial areas, as well as collaboration with government entities, NGOs, and civil society institutions. Proficiency in MS Office and Google Suite is essential, along with good writing and communication skills, and the ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include completed secondary education as a minimum. A first-level university degree in relevant fields such as Business Administration or Public Accounting is preferred and will be considered an asset during the selection process. This educational background is essential for understanding the administrative and financial aspects of the role and for effectively supporting the Programme Analysts and Technicians in their responsibilities.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in assistance projects, ideally within international cooperation organizations. Candidates should have a strong background in logistical, administrative, and financial support, as well as experience working collaboratively with government agencies, NGOs, and civil society institutions. This level of experience is crucial for ensuring that the Programme Assistant can effectively contribute to the planning and execution of UNFPA's programme activities and support the overall mission of the organization.

Languages:
The Programme Assistant must have an excellent command of the Spanish language, including strong writing and communication skills. Knowledge of the English language is desirable and will be considered an advantage in this role, as it may facilitate communication with international partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package that includes leave days, health insurance, and additional remuneration for pensions and social security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security obligations. UNFPA is committed to providing a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, integrity, and a healthy work-life balance. The organization encourages applications from women, individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to applicants with disabilities upon request to support their participation in the recruitment process. UNFPA promotes equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all candidates, regardless of personal characteristics.