Programme Support Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has a mission to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. The organization operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 12,000 employees. FAO's work is guided by the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly the goal of ending hunger, achieving food security and improved nutrition, and promoting sustainable agriculture. The Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia (REU) plays a crucial role in addressing regional priorities for food security, agriculture, and rural development, ensuring that FAO's strategic objectives are met through effective collaboration and implementation of programs across the region.

Job Overview:
The Programme Support Assistant will provide essential secretarial and programmatic support to Technical Officers within the FAO's Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia. This role is pivotal in facilitating the organization of technical workshops and international meetings, ensuring that all logistical aspects are managed efficiently. The assistant will be responsible for drafting and dispatching invitation letters, overseeing visa arrangements, and providing support during meetings. Additionally, the role involves assisting in the recruitment process of affiliate personnel, managing procurement of products and services, and maintaining accurate records of projects. The assistant will also be tasked with collecting and processing data related to development activities, preparing background materials for meetings, and performing various office duties to support the smooth operation of the office.

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

• Assisting in the organization of technical workshops and international meetings, including logistics, drafting invitations, overseeing visa arrangements, and providing on-site support.
• Supporting the recruitment process of affiliate personnel by reviewing applications and preparing minutes for interview meetings.
• Assisting with the procurement of products and services and preparing Letters of Agreement.
• Arranging travel for field missions and technical events, and preparing claims for technical support.
• Maintaining and updating project records in prescribed formats and keeping current files on project statuses.
• Performing daily office duties, including routine correspondence and translations.
• Collecting and processing data on development activities, making necessary abstracts and computations.
• Preparing background materials and organizing meetings, including taking minutes and notes.
• Performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
The minimum requirements for the Programme Support Assistant position include:

• Completed secondary school education.
• At least one year of relevant experience in secretarial and clerical/programme work, with a focus on record-keeping and information processing.
• A working knowledge of English and/or Russian.
• Candidates must be nationals of Hungary or residents with a regular work permit.

Educational Background:
While a completed secondary school education is the minimum requirement, a university degree will be considered an asset for this position. This educational background will enhance the candidate's ability to perform the duties effectively and contribute to the organization's goals.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of one year of relevant experience in secretarial and clerical work, particularly in roles that involve record-keeping and processing information. This experience is crucial for understanding the operational needs of the FAO and effectively supporting the Technical Officers.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English and/or Russian is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in these languages will facilitate communication within the office and with external stakeholders, enhancing the effectiveness of the Programme Support Assistant's role.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Budapest, Hungary, and is expected to be a full-time role. The assistant will be part of a dynamic team within the FAO's Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia, contributing to the organization's mission of achieving food security and sustainable agricultural practices. The role may involve interactions with various stakeholders, including government officials, NGOs, and other UN agencies, providing a unique opportunity for professional development in an international setting.