Programme Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The International Labour Organisation (ILO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that focuses on labor issues, particularly international labor standards, social protection, and decent work opportunities. Established in 1919, the ILO has a mission to promote rights at work, encourage decent employment opportunities, enhance social protection, and strengthen dialogue on work-related issues. The ILO operates in over 180 countries and has a diverse workforce dedicated to improving labor conditions globally. The ILO Country Office for Thailand, Cambodia, and Lao People's Democratic Republic (CO-Bangkok) oversees the implementation of programs in these countries, with a focus on promoting decent work through strategic objectives outlined in the Decent Work Country Programme (DWCP).

Job Overview:
The Programme Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the National Coordinator in Vientiane, Lao PDR, by managing various national coordination and liaison duties. This position is essential for the effective implementation of the Laos Decent Work Country Programme (DWCP), which aims to promote equal opportunities for women and men in obtaining decent and productive work. The incumbent will assist in responding to requests from constituents and will be responsible for a range of administrative and programming functions that facilitate cooperation with ILO Development Cooperation Projects, constituents, partners, and the UN Country Team. The role requires a proactive approach to ensure smooth operations and impactful delivery of the DWCP, contributing to the overall mission of the ILO in promoting decent work.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Assistant will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including: providing financial and administrative support to the National Coordinator and serving as the operational contact for ILO constituents; assisting with the implementation of Development Cooperation projects; maintaining communication with partners and ILO projects; preparing correspondence and documentation; contributing to program development and drafting concept notes; organizing seminars, workshops, and meetings; promoting ILO activities through public information materials; assisting with travel arrangements and procurement processes; managing project budgets; and performing other duties as assigned by the supervisor. The role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively in a multicultural environment.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have completed secondary school education, preferably supplemented by technical or university courses in business administration, development projects, or social services. A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible administrative work experience is required, with supervisory experience being desirable. Familiarity with the United Nations Common System or international organizations is an advantage. Proficiency in standard office software and experience handling confidential matters with discretion are essential. Knowledge of ILO operations and project areas will be beneficial.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position includes the completion of secondary school education, ideally enhanced by further technical or university-level courses in relevant fields such as business administration, development projects, or social services. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of the role and effectively supporting the National Coordinator in the implementation of the DWCP.

Experience:
Candidates should possess at least seven years of relevant experience in administrative roles, with a focus on community development and program support activities. Experience within the United Nations system or similar international organizations is preferred. The role demands a solid understanding of administrative processes, project management, and the ability to work with diverse stakeholders.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, as it is the working language of the ILO. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Lao PDR would be advantageous, as it would facilitate communication with local partners and constituents. The ability to provide informal translations when necessary is also a key requirement for this position.

Additional Notes:
This position is a short-term contract lasting for seven months, starting from December 1, 202

• The recruitment process is open to both internal and external candidates, with specific local recruitment criteria applicable for external candidates. The ILO encourages applications from qualified female candidates and individuals with disabilities. The role does not carry an expectation of renewal or conversion to a permanent position within the ILO, and extensions are contingent upon various factors such as funding availability and performance.