Programme Officer (Executive)

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency responsible for providing humanitarian and developmental aid to children worldwide. The organization operates in over 150 countries and has a mission to promote the rights of every child, ensuring equity and access to essential services. UNICEF's work is guided by the Convention on the Rights of the Child, focusing on the most disadvantaged and excluded children and families to help them reach their full potential. With a workforce of thousands of employees, UNICEF emphasizes the importance of addressing inequity to foster sustainable growth and stability in nations.

Job Overview:
The Programme Officer (Executive) position in the Afghanistan Country Office is designed to support the Executive Specialist in the Office of the Representative. This role is pivotal in providing background research, analysis, and planning support for both country-wide and organization-wide strategies. The incumbent will be responsible for coordinating, managing, and planning activities for the Office of the Representative in a systematic manner. This includes managing incoming information, correspondence, decision memos, and other institutional documents that are crucial for the organization’s archive. The Programme Officer will also assist in drafting work plans, annual reports, and other planning documents that align with the team's goals. The position requires a proactive approach to ensure that the supervisor is well-prepared for meetings and missions, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the office.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme Officer (Executive) include:

• Supporting office priority setting and decision-making by managing the flow of information to the supervisor, identifying urgent matters, and proposing actions.
• Analyzing supporting documentation and summarizing relevant points for the supervisor.
• Confer with section/division heads to secure timely and authoritative information for decision-making.
• Preparing the supervisor for meetings and missions by drafting talking points and researching relevant information.
• Accompanying the supervisor to meetings and missions to prepare notes and ensure follow-up on discussions.
• Coordinating drafts of position papers and other documents relevant to office activities.
• Ensuring high-level visitors are appropriately addressed and receive necessary background information.
• Developing and maintaining a monitoring system for critical correspondence and documents.
• Researching and synthesizing qualitative and quantitative information for annual work-plans. 1
• Organizing materials for office strategies to ensure optimum impact and sustainability. 1
• Preparing logistics for events involving senior management participation and coordinating background documents for meetings. 1
• Serving as a liaison for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, ensuring clear communication and promoting inclusive practices.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Programme Officer (Executive) position include strong analytical and organizational skills, excellent communication abilities, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. The candidate should have a deep understanding of UNICEF's mission and objectives, particularly regarding children's rights and equity. Familiarity with project management and strategic planning is essential, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams. The role demands a high level of discretion and professionalism, given the sensitive nature of the information handled. Additionally, proficiency in relevant software and tools for data management and communication is necessary.

Educational Background:
Candidates for the Programme Officer (Executive) position should possess at least a bachelor's degree in social sciences, international relations, public administration, or a related field. A master's degree is preferred and may enhance the candidate's competitiveness for the role. Educational qualifications should reflect a strong foundation in research, analysis, and strategic planning, aligning with UNICEF's objectives and the specific requirements of the position.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 3-5 years of relevant professional experience in program management, administration, or a related field. Experience working in international organizations, particularly in humanitarian or development contexts, is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a track record of successfully managing projects, coordinating teams, and supporting high-level decision-making processes. Familiarity with the political and cultural landscape of Afghanistan is an advantage, as it will aid in navigating the complexities of the work environment.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Knowledge of local languages such as Dari or Pashto is highly desirable and can significantly enhance communication and effectiveness in the role. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly in fostering relationships with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The Programme Officer (Executive) position is a full-time role based in Kabul, Afghanistan. The work environment may be challenging due to the complex political and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security situation in the country. UN volunteers typically reside in secure accommodations provided by UNICEF, which include basic amenities. The organization offers medical insurance and access to local healthcare providers. Cultural sensitivity training is required to help volunteers navigate social interactions and understand local customs. The position may involve travel within the country and requires adaptability to changing circumstances.