Programme Management Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA) Programme in the Division on Technology and Logistics (DTL) of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). The UNCTAD is a part of the United Nations that focuses on trade, investment, and development issues. It was established in 1964 and operates in over 190 countries, with a mission to promote the integration of developing countries into the world economy. The organization aims to foster sustainable development through trade and investment, and it employs a diverse workforce dedicated to these goals.

Job Overview:
The Programme Management Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the ASYCUDA Programme, which is a significant initiative aimed at enhancing customs operations through technology. The incumbent will be responsible for providing comprehensive programme and project management assistance throughout all phases of the programme/project cycle. This includes conducting research, compiling and analyzing data, and presenting findings to inform decision-making. The role requires a proactive approach to identifying issues and proposing solutions, as well as ensuring compliance with established guidelines and objectives. The assistant will also be involved in budget preparation, monitoring financial transactions, and preparing reports and documentation related to programme activities. This position demands a high level of professionalism, teamwork, and effective communication skills to collaborate with various stakeholders and contribute to the successful implementation of the ASYCUDA Programme.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme Management Assistant include:

• Providing full range of programme/project management and implementation assistance for ASYCUDA.
• Researching, compiling, analyzing, and summarizing information/data on various programmes/projects.
• Reviewing and appraising submissions for compliance with guidelines and objectives.
• Drafting budgets and forecasts, preparing monitoring checklists, and ensuring appropriate resource allocations.
• Monitoring budgetary commitments and preparing periodic budget revisions.
• Drafting newsletters and inputs for reports, briefings, and correspondence.
• Arranging formal project closures and managing final reports.
• Providing secretariat services to committees and drafting meeting minutes.
• Establishing internal databases and managing relevant data and information. 1
• Supervising office support staff and assisting with data analysis and presentations. 1
• Performing other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. A first-level university degree or higher is preferred and can reduce the required experience. A minimum of 10 years of experience in programme or project administration, technical cooperation, or a related area is required. Candidates with a first-level university degree may qualify with 8 years of experience. Experience in data analytics or related fields is desirable, as is experience working with international organizations, particularly the United Nations. Knowledge of customs and international trade digitization is essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a high school diploma or equivalent. A first-level university degree or higher is preferred, which can significantly reduce the years of required experience. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of programme management and international trade.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in programme or project administration, technical cooperation, or a related area. This requirement is reduced to 8 years for candidates with a first-level university degree or higher. Additionally, at least 1 year of experience in data analytics or a related area is desirable. Experience with international organizations, especially the United Nations, is highly valued, particularly in supporting technical cooperation programmes related to customs and international trade digitization.

Languages:
English is the mandatory working language for this position, with a required proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Knowledge of Dari and Pashto is desirable, also at UN Level II proficiency. This linguistic capability is essential for effective communication within the United Nations and with stakeholders in Afghanistan.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available for three months. If the selected candidate is a staff member from the United Nations Secretariat, the selection will be administered as a temporary assignment. The position may be limited to internal candidates and is subject to funding availability. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The appointment is for an initial period of three months, and the United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.