Internship Assistance with the Consultative Committee's Regular Activities

Job Posting Organization:
The Universal Postal Union (UPU) is a specialized agency of the United Nations, established to facilitate international postal cooperation. Founded in 1874, the UPU has grown to include 191 member countries and is headquartered in Bern, Switzerland. The organization aims to ensure that postal services are accessible and of high quality for all, fostering social, cultural, and commercial communication among peoples. The UPU consists of various bodies, including the Postal Operations Council (POC), which addresses operational and technical matters relevant to postal services, promotes new postal products, and sets standards for technological and operational processes.

Job Overview:
The internship within the Consultative Committee (CC) secretariat is designed to support the daily activities of the CC, which is part of the UPU's International Bureau’s Administration and Cabinet Directorate (DACAB). The intern will assist the Programme Manager, Expert, Assistant, and consultants in various tasks. The role is focused on providing support for routine CC matters, organizing meetings and events, maintaining communication with CC member prospects, and monitoring CC activities through various channels. This position offers a unique opportunity to gain insight into the workings of an international organization and to contribute to the enhancement of postal services globally.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Supporting routine Consultative Committee matters by assisting in the organization of internal and external meetings/events, which involves reserving rooms and equipment, sending invitations, and coordinating participant availability.
• Following up on contacting CC member prospects and regularly updating the list of CC prospects.
• Assisting with the coordination and follow-up of matchmaking meetings between CC members and designated operators (DOs).
• Monitoring CC members’ activities through various communication channels, including the CC WhatsApp community.
• Performing traditional secretariat duties, such as administering mail and email correspondence, ensuring the receipt of key information upon request, preparing lists/tables/graphics, and gathering information as instructed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should possess work experience in an international environment, which would be considered an asset. Knowledge of secretarial or administrative practices is essential, along with excellent proficiency in Microsoft Office tools, particularly Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook. A good understanding of Excel is also required. Experience in note-taking and editing documents in either French or English is desirable. Candidates should demonstrate independence, a sense of initiative, flexibility, and the ability to work under stress while managing priorities. Strong oral and written communication skills, practical-mindedness, and the ability to collaborate with individuals from diverse nationalities are also important.

Educational Background:
This internship is exclusively reserved for students. Candidates must be currently enrolled in a degree program or have graduated within six months of the announcement date. Relevant fields of study include international relations, communications, business administration, or any related area that aligns with the responsibilities of the internship.

Experience:
While prior work experience is not mandatory, any experience in an international setting or in administrative roles will be advantageous. The internship is designed for students or recent graduates, thus emphasizing the importance of academic knowledge and the potential for practical application in a professional environment.

Languages:
Candidates must have an excellent oral and written command of either French or English at an advanced level (UN level III). The ability to communicate in the other language at an intermediate level (UN level II) is desirable. Knowledge of another UN language at an intermediate level is also considered a plus, enhancing the candidate's profile for this international role.

Additional Notes:
The internship is expected to last for six months and is unpaid, in accordance with UPU rules. Interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Candidates who are not citizens or permanent residents of Switzerland may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements before accepting the internship offer. Additionally, the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.