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 universal access to sexual and reproductive health and rights by 2030, as outlined in its Strategic Plan for 2026-202

• UNFPA emphasizes the importance of working with partners through country-led strategies and sustainable financing to address global challenges and protect past gains, particularly in fragile settings.

Job Overview:
The Programme Assistant position is integral to the Programmes Unit at UNFPA's Country Office in Pretoria. This role provides essential support to officers within the unit, focusing on programme design, implementation, research, and data analysis. The Programme Assistant will work under the guidance of the Representative and be directly supervised by the Assistant Representative. The position is crucial for ensuring the smooth functioning of the programmes team, facilitating logistical and knowledge management support, and enabling the team to focus on strategic programme delivery. The Programme Assistant will assist in preparing reports, compiling background materials, and maintaining accurate partner and project files in compliance with UNFPA guidelines. This role is vital for the effective execution of the country programme, contributing to the overarching goals of UNFPA in South Africa.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Assistant has several major duties and responsibilities, including: A. Supporting the Programmes Team in the Country Office by assisting in the preparation of programme work plans, budgets, and proposals; performing data entry and updates in the UNFPA Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system; supporting the monitoring of programme activities and expenditures; collecting, compiling, and analyzing programme data for reporting; preparing draft reports and presentations; coordinating logistical arrangements for programme activities; maintaining accurate programme files; facilitating communication with partners and stakeholders; and providing logistical support for events. B. Research and Knowledge Management Sharing Support by performing research assistance duties, summarizing information for reports, and maintaining electronic mailing lists. C. Programme Operational Support by undertaking administrative arrangements for workshops and meetings, maintaining inventory of programme assets, reviewing correspondence, and supporting procurement activities. D. General Support by standing in for other Programme team members and carrying out additional duties as required by UNFPA leadership.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires completed Secondary Level (High School) Education as a minimum. A first-level university degree in a field related to sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), project/programme management, public health, or relevant social sciences is desirable. Candidates should possess strong interpersonal and organizational skills, computer literacy in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, and good knowledge of ERP systems. Good writing and communication skills are essential, along with the demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have completed Secondary Level (High School) Education. A first-level university degree in an SRHR-related field, project/programme management, public health, or a relevant social science discipline is desirable, indicating a preference for candidates with a higher educational background.

Experience:
At least 5 years of relevant experience in SRHR or related fields is desirable. Experience in development project/programme management within private, community-based organizations, NGOs, national, or international organizations is preferred. Previous experience in the UN system is an advantage, highlighting the importance of familiarity with UN operations and standards.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is required. Professional working knowledge of one or more official South African languages is an advantage, as it enhances communication with local stakeholders. Additionally, working knowledge of another UN Official Language is considered an asset, reflecting the organization's commitment to multilingualism and diversity.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other applicable benefits. 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 for applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process. UNFPA is committed to equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all, regardless of personal characteristics.