Programme Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead United Nations agency focused on delivering a world where every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and territories, working to ensure that every individual has access to reproductive health services and the ability to make informed choices about their bodies and futures. The organization is committed to promoting gender equality and empowering women and girls, as well as addressing issues related to population dynamics and sustainable development. UNFPA's mission is guided by the principles of human rights and social justice, and it strives to create a world where all individuals can lead healthy, productive lives free from discrimination and violence.

Job Overview:
The Programme Assistant position is integral to the UNFPA Country Office in Luanda, Angola, and plays a crucial role in supporting the implementation of the UNFPA Country Programme. This position involves providing administrative and programmatic support, particularly within the Integrated Sexual and Reproductive Health Unit. The Programme Assistant will work closely with the Assistant Representative and other team members to ensure that programmatic activities are executed efficiently and effectively. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously while adhering to deadlines. The Programme Assistant will also engage in research, financial management, and operational guidance, contributing to the overall success of the Country Programme and its alignment with the UNFPA Strategic Plan for 2026-2029.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Assistant will be responsible for a variety of tasks that support the Country Programme's implementation. Key duties include:

• Assisting in planning, budgeting, and monitoring processes for the Country Programme, ensuring attention to detail and adherence to deadlines.
• Facilitating incoming missions and managing travel arrangements for programme staff and partners, coordinating with relevant personnel for processing travel requests and claims.
• Maintaining an organized filing system for Country Office programmes and projects, ensuring easy access to information.
• Drafting correspondence related to programme issues in consultation with programme officers.
• Providing logistical support and addressing security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security-related matters for staff, UN Volunteers, and consultants.
• Summarizing information and drafting contributions to reports, technical notes, and other documentation necessary for monitoring project implementation.
• Keeping the Country Office informed by providing relevant updates and reports.
• Supporting the Assistant Representative and programme officers in organizing programme-related meetings, including preparing agendas and necessary documentation.
• Documenting meeting minutes and ensuring action plans are followed up. 1
• Assisting with the logistics and financial aspects of programme-related events, meetings, workshops, and advocacy activities in collaboration with the operations team. 1
• Performing other support duties as required to ensure the smooth operation of the Country Office.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have completed secondary level education as a minimum requirement. A first-level university degree in public administration, finance, or economics is desirable. Additionally, candidates should possess strong interpersonal and organizational skills, as well as proficiency in computer applications such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Familiarity with QUANTUM, Peoplesoft, or other ERP systems is advantageous. Good writing and communication skills are essential, along with a demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes completed secondary level education as a minimum. A first-level university degree in public administration, finance, or economics is preferred, as it provides a solid foundation for understanding the administrative and financial aspects of the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in administrative or programmatic support roles. Previous experience working within the United Nations system is considered an advantage, as it provides familiarity with UN processes and procedures. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team setting are essential for success in this position.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication in Angola. A working knowledge of English is also required, as it facilitates communication with international colleagues and stakeholders. Knowledge of other official UN languages and/or the local language of the duty station is desirable and can enhance the candidate's effectiveness in the role.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Luanda, Angola, and is a full-time role within the UNFPA Country Office. The organization is committed to promoting gender equality and diversity within its workforce, encouraging 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 to support their participation in the recruitment process. UNFPA emphasizes equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all candidates, regardless of personal characteristics. The selection and appointment process may be subject to background checks, medical clearance, and other administrative requirements.