Programme Associate G-6

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 from early childhood through adolescence. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development to its staff. UNICEF is known for its inclusive culture and attractive compensation and benefits package, aiming to build careers while serving children and communities globally.

Job Overview:
The Programme Associate role at UNICEF Madagascar is crucial in addressing the significant challenges the country faces in ensuring access to quality education for all children, particularly in rural and disadvantaged areas. This position supports UNICEF's efforts to strengthen education systems, improve learning outcomes, and promote equity. The Programme Associate will be responsible for the development and processing of Programme Cooperation Agreements (PCAs) and cash transfers in accordance with HACT procedures. The role involves monitoring programme budgets and expenditures to ensure compliance with UNICEF's rules and regulations, tracking the distribution of supplies, conducting spot checks on partner projects, and compiling and analyzing data to support reporting and decision-making. Additionally, the Programme Associate will prepare financial reports and assist in capacity-building activities for partners, playing a vital role in the effective implementation of educational programs.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme Associate include:

• Supporting the development and processing of Programme Cooperation Agreements (PCAs) and cash transfers in line with HACT procedures.
• Monitoring programme budgets and expenditures to ensure compliance with UNICEF rules and regulations.
• Tracking the distribution of supplies and conducting spot checks on partner projects to ensure accountability and transparency.
• Compiling and analyzing data to support reporting and decision-making processes.
• Preparing financial reports that provide insights into programme performance and financial health.
• Assisting in capacity-building activities for partners to enhance their ability to implement programmes effectively.
• Collaborating with diverse teams to ensure the successful execution of educational initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the Programme Associate position, candidates must meet the following minimum requirements:

• Education: Completion of secondary education, preferably supplemented by technical or university courses related to administration, finance, or programme management.
• Work Experience: A minimum of six years of administrative, financial, or clerical work experience is required. Prior experience in programme support functions is considered an asset, and experience in a UN system agency is desirable.
• Skills: Candidates should possess strong organizational and planning skills, attention to detail, the ability to work effectively with diverse teams, and proficiency in MS Office and UNICEF systems (e.g., VISION).

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes the completion of secondary education, with a preference for candidates who have pursued technical or university courses related to administration, finance, or programme management. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of programme implementation and financial monitoring within UNICEF's operational framework.

Experience:
Candidates for the Programme Associate position should have at least six years of relevant work experience in administrative, financial, or clerical roles. Experience in programme support functions is advantageous, and familiarity with the operations of a UN system agency is desirable. This level of experience ensures that the candidate is well-equipped to handle the responsibilities associated with the role and contribute effectively to UNICEF's mission.

Languages:
Fluency in French is a mandatory requirement for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within UNICEF Madagascar. Knowledge of English and Malagasy is considered an asset, as it enhances the candidate's ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders and partners in the region.

Additional Notes:
The Programme Associate position is a full-time role that may involve working in a dynamic and challenging environment, particularly given the focus on education in rural and disadvantaged areas of Madagascar. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive workplace, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates, including those with disabilities. The organization offers a wide range of benefits to its staff, including paid parental leave, breastfeeding breaks, and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. UNICEF is committed to safeguarding the rights of every child and has a zero-tolerance policy for conduct that is incompatible with its mission. All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and adherence to UNICEF's standards and principles is expected.