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 three transformative results: 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, while also promoting human rights and ethical standards among its staff.

Job Overview:
The Programme Assistant plays a crucial role in supporting the effective planning and execution of UNFPA programme activities. This position requires a client- and results-oriented approach to interpreting rules, procedures, and guidelines related to administrative and programmatic processes. The Programme Assistant will provide logistical, administrative, and financial support to the country office and UNFPA-supported projects. This includes managing data, ensuring compliance with established policies, and supporting the implementation of various programmes and projects. The role is integral to developing mechanisms and systems that facilitate the smooth operation of UNFPA's initiatives, ensuring that all activities align with the organization's strategic goals and objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Assistant will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including supporting Programme Analysts and Technicians in administrative activities, providing logistical support for travel, meetings, and workshops, and managing disbursements and budget revisions. Specific duties include drafting information materials and terms of reference, making requisition requests in Quantum, preparing specifications for purchases, and maintaining supplier records. The assistant will also monitor expenditures, verify fund availability, draft letters and programme documents, and alternate with the Procurement Officer and Administrative Assistant as needed. The role requires attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively, ensuring that all documentation is complete and accurate.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have completed secondary education, with a first-level university degree in Business Administration, Public Accounting, or a related field being highly valued. A minimum of five years of experience in assistance projects, particularly within international cooperation organizations, is required. Candidates should have experience in logistical, administrative, and financial areas, as well as collaboration with government, NGOs, and civil society institutions. Proficiency in MS Office and Google Suite is essential, along with good writing and communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes completed secondary education as a minimum. A first-level university degree in relevant fields such as Business Administration or Public Accounting is preferred and will be considered an asset. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the administrative and financial aspects of the role and for effectively supporting the Programme Analysts and Technicians in their responsibilities.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in assistance projects, ideally within international cooperation organizations. Candidates should have a strong background in logistical, administrative, and financial support, demonstrating their ability to manage complex tasks and collaborate effectively with various stakeholders, including government entities and NGOs. This level of experience is essential for ensuring that the Programme Assistant can contribute meaningfully to the implementation of UNFPA's initiatives.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish is mandatory, with excellent writing and communication skills required. Knowledge of English is desirable, as it may facilitate communication with international partners and enhance the assistant's ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders. Proficiency in both languages will be beneficial for the successful execution of the Programme Assistant's responsibilities.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including leave days, health insurance, and additional remuneration for pensions and social security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security obligations. UNFPA is committed to creating a work environment that reflects gender equality, diversity, and integrity, and encourages applications from women and individuals from underrepresented groups, including the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, and persons with disabilities. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process. UNFPA promotes equal opportunities in all aspects of employment, ensuring that all candidates are considered fairly regardless of personal characteristics.