Programme Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights, gender equality, and population development. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has a mission 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 by 2030: 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, and calls for a collective effort to build forward better. 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 Associate will play a crucial role in supporting the efficient delivery of UNFPA’s overall programme in Bosnia and Herzegovina, particularly focusing on activities in the entity of Republika Srpska. This position is designed to strengthen UNFPA’s relationships with relevant authorities and stakeholders while providing comprehensive support across various projects within the Gender portfolio. The Programme Associate will be responsible for integrated programme and operational support, which is essential to UNFPA’s strategic approach. This includes managing data inputs, providing logistical support, monitoring project implementation, and following up on recommendations. The role is pivotal in ensuring that UNFPA’s country programme is effectively designed, planned, and managed, contributing to the broader goals of the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Associate will collaborate with the organization’s programme leads and work closely with government counterparts, NGOs, and other partners to advocate for and implement the Country Programme Document and Work Plans in alignment with UNSDCF priorities and UNFPA policies. Key responsibilities include undertaking logistical, administrative, and financial arrangements necessary for the successful planning and delivery of programme activities. The Associate will support efforts to improve legislation and policy in the Republika Srpska, organize inter-agency meetings, capacity-building sessions, panel discussions, and roundtables, and assist with UNFPA missions. Additionally, the Programme Associate will evaluate project and programme activities, conduct field visits, participate in review meetings, and prepare regular status and progress reports. They will guide the routine implementation of assigned projects, coordinate project inputs, and ensure national counterparts' participation in training activities. Financial support is also a critical aspect of this role, including preparing financial transactions in UNFPA's online management systems and assisting with advocacy and resource mobilization efforts.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess completed secondary level education (high school or equivalent) in business administration or social sciences. A minimum of seven years of relevant experience in programme/project management is required, or four years of experience with a first-level (or advanced) university degree. Proven experience in managing and implementing policies, processes, and systems in development organizations or the private sector is essential, with previous experience in UN project implementation preferred. Candidates should demonstrate excellent technical and organizational skills, the ability to analyze financial information, and strong interpersonal skills to operate under tight schedules.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes completed secondary education in business administration or social sciences. Candidates with a first-level or advanced university degree will have an advantage, particularly if they have relevant experience in programme or project management.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of relevant experience in programme/project management, or four years of experience if the candidate holds a first-level or advanced university degree. Experience in managing and implementing policies and processes in development organizations or the private sector is crucial, with a preference for candidates who have previously worked on UN projects.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Bosnian/Croatian/Serbian is required for this position. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication and collaboration with stakeholders and partners.

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 promotes 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 is committed to equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all candidates, regardless of personal characteristics.