National UN Volunteer Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is an international financial institution and a specialized agency of the United Nations. Established with the mission to eradicate rural poverty and hunger, IFAD focuses on investing in rural people. The organization finances programs and projects aimed at increasing agricultural productivity and raising rural incomes. Additionally, IFAD advocates for policies that contribute to rural transformation at local, national, and international levels. The organization operates in numerous countries, working closely with governments, the private sector, and other stakeholders to deliver its programs effectively.

Job Overview:
The National UN Volunteer Specialist will play a crucial role within the Department for Country Operations (DCO) of IFAD. This department is responsible for overseeing the origination, design, and management of IFAD investments, including both sovereign and non-sovereign operations. The specialist will work under the guidance of the Regional Director and will be directly supervised by the APR Administrative and Resource Analyst. The position requires close coordination with the Management Services Division (MSD) and the APR Office Assistant to ensure effective administrative and operational services. The incumbent will assist in managing correspondence, providing administrative support, and ensuring compliance with internal procedures. This role is essential for maintaining organized systems and supporting the overall efficiency of the team.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the National UN Volunteer Specialist include managing the flow of incoming and outgoing correspondence, emails, and telephone inquiries. This involves gathering background information, facilitating communication among team members, and maintaining organized filing and reference systems in both digital and physical formats. The specialist will provide administrative and operational support to ensure the effective and compliant use of resources, which includes tracking documents and deadlines, monitoring progress on priority actions, and contributing to the organization of meetings, workshops, and official travel. Additionally, the specialist will maintain attendance and leave records, compile information for briefing notes, and assist in preparing draft responses to inquiries. The role also involves reviewing draft documents for clarity and adherence to established formats, preparing correspondence for signature, and providing informal translation of communications when necessary.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the National UN Volunteer Specialist position should possess strong organizational and communication skills. They must demonstrate accountability, adaptability, and professionalism in their work. The ability to manage multiple tasks effectively and maintain a high level of attention to detail is essential. Furthermore, candidates should exhibit creativity and sound judgment in decision-making processes. Proficiency in using various office software and tools is also required to support the administrative functions of the role.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is essential for this position. Candidates should ideally hold a degree in business administration, public administration, or a related field. Additional training or certifications in project management or administrative support can be advantageous. A solid understanding of the operations of international organizations and familiarity with the UN system will be beneficial for the role.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have prior experience in administrative support or a similar role, preferably within an international organization or a governmental agency. Experience in managing correspondence, organizing meetings, and providing operational support is highly valued. Candidates should demonstrate their ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and manage tasks efficiently under pressure.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the working language of IFAD. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly those relevant to the Asia and Pacific region, is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
The National UN Volunteer Specialist position is based in Bangkok, Thailand, which is a well-developed duty station offering safe living conditions and reliable infrastructure. The role may involve full-time commitment, and candidates should be prepared for a dynamic work environment that requires flexibility and cultural sensitivity. While the cost of living in Bangkok varies, essential goods are readily available, and the city provides access to quality medical facilities and services. The position may also involve a contract duration that aligns with the needs of IFAD and the specific projects being undertaken.