Senior Program Assistant (SPA)

Job Posting Organization:
The organization is the largest nonprofit dedicated to combating poverty, disease, and inequity globally. It was founded on the principle that all individuals, regardless of their identity or circumstances, should have the opportunity to lead healthy and productive lives. The organization emphasizes the importance of diversity among its employees, reflecting the varied populations it serves. It offers an exceptional benefits package that includes comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage without premiums, generous paid time off, paid family leave, retirement contributions funded by the foundation, regional holidays, and opportunities for employees to engage in various community initiatives. The organization is committed to fostering an environment that supports both personal and professional growth for its employees.

Job Overview:
The Senior Program Assistant (SPA) role is designed to provide high-quality administrative and organizational support to ensure smooth operations for the Director of Africa and the Director's office. This position is crucial for facilitating and coordinating a variety of essential tasks and projects that support the Africa Leadership Team. The SPA will work closely with other Senior Program Assistants within the foundation, representing the Africa Director in interactions with internal and external partners. The role requires a proactive approach to managing complex calendars, scheduling appointments, and preparing for meetings, ensuring that the Africa Director is well-equipped for engagements. The SPA will also be responsible for project management support, tracking project timelines, and addressing any risks or delays that may arise, thereby contributing to the successful execution of the foundation's initiatives in Africa.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Program Assistant include managing complex calendars across different time zones, prioritizing and scheduling a high volume of appointments and meetings, and coordinating travel arrangements. The SPA will partner with various teams within the foundation to prepare the Africa Director for meetings by creating agendas and pre-read materials. Additionally, the SPA will provide project management support, helping to coordinate team workloads and manage special projects as needed. The role involves organizing high-level meetings and events, taking meeting notes, tracking action items, and ensuring timely follow-up. The SPA will also be responsible for developing briefing materials for leadership engagements, maintaining organized files and records, and performing basic financial duties such as expense reconciliation. Furthermore, the SPA will liaise with internal and external stakeholders to facilitate communication and support Africa's strategic initiatives, while also contributing to strategy execution and problem-solving efforts.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree, with an advanced degree being a plus. Equivalent experience may also be considered. A minimum of 5 years of experience supporting senior executives in a fast-paced environment is required. The ideal candidate should demonstrate strong organizational and project management skills, possess a sense of initiative, and be able to work autonomously while remaining flexible to changing priorities. Clear and consistent communication skills, both verbal and written, are essential, along with a results-oriented mindset. Candidates should be people-oriented, open-minded, and eager to engage with various stakeholders. Knowledge of the African business environment and standards is desirable, and proficiency in Microsoft Office applications is required.

Educational Background:
A bachelor’s degree is mandatory for this position, with an advanced degree being advantageous. The organization may consider equivalent experience in lieu of formal education, emphasizing the importance of practical skills and knowledge gained through work experience.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of experience in supporting senior executives within a complex and fast-paced environment. Candidates should have experience in roles that necessitate diplomacy and sound judgment in managing interactions with individuals at all levels, including senior executives and high-level officials. The ability to work autonomously and collaboratively across teams is crucial, as is the capacity to adapt to changing tasks and priorities.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent verbal and written communication skills being essential for the role. While English is the primary language required, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly in the context of engaging with diverse stakeholders across Africa.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Nairobi, Kenya, and candidates must be legally authorized to work in the country without requiring visa sponsorship. The role is full-time, and the organization emphasizes its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in all employment practices. The hiring process will include a background check, and accommodations are available for candidates with disabilities during the application process.