Project Officer 2 ASEAN-Canada Plan of Action Trust Fund

Job Posting Organization:
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) was founded in 1967 with the mission of promoting regional cooperation in Southeast Asia. It aims to foster peace, progress, and prosperity among its member states through equality and partnership. ASEAN currently comprises eleven countries in Southeast Asia, with Timor-Leste being the latest member admitted during the 47th ASEAN Summit in October 202

• The organization has established a Community Vision 2025, which emphasizes political cohesion, economic integration, and social responsibility. Canada has been an ASEAN dialogue partner since 1977, and in September 2023, a Strategic Partnership was announced to enhance collaboration across political-security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, economic, and socio-cultural pillars. The ASEAN-Canada Plan of Action Trust Fund, established in 2023, represents a significant milestone in the relationship between Canada and ASEAN, with a budget of CAD $11.7 million allocated for the years 2023 to 2029 to support projects that address development gaps among ASEAN Member States.

Job Overview:
The Project Officer position is integral to the ASEAN-Canada Trust Fund, focusing on the effective management and implementation of projects that promote cooperation between ASEAN and Canada. The role involves supporting the Programme Manager in daily project management, financial oversight, and administrative tasks. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring compliance with financial policies and regulatory requirements, monitoring project disbursements, and preparing progress reports. This position also requires the development of communication materials to raise awareness of the Trust Fund's activities and accomplishments. The Project Officer will work closely with various stakeholders, including project proponents and divisions within the ASEAN Secretariat, to ensure the successful execution of initiatives aligned with the ASEAN-Canada Plan of Action and the Community Vision 2025.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Officer will have a range of responsibilities, including:

• Supporting the Programme Manager in daily project management and monitoring activities related to the ASEAN-Canada Trust Fund.
• Providing technical and administrative advice for the management of the Programme Management Team (PMT) and office operations.
• Reviewing project proposals for the ASEAN-Canada Trust Fund and offering constructive feedback.
• Assisting in the preparation of the annual Work Plan and operational manuals for the Trust Fund.
• Ensuring compliance with financial policies and regulatory requirements during project implementation.
• Monitoring financial reporting and disbursements for Trust Fund projects, maintaining accurate records.
• Collaborating with stakeholders to prepare financial and narrative progress reports.
• Developing communication materials to promote the Trust Fund's initiatives and achievements.
• Providing logistical support for meetings and workshops as necessary. 1
• Engaging with relevant stakeholders to foster collaboration and communication.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be Indonesian nationals or other ASEAN Member State nationals residing in Indonesia and eligible to work there. A Master's degree in International Relations or a related policy area is required, or a Bachelor's degree accompanied by at least two years of relevant administrative or technical experience. Proven experience in Official Development Assistance (ODA) program/project formulation, planning, implementation, and financial management is essential. Familiarity with Result-Based Management programming is advantageous. Candidates should possess a solid understanding of international and regional issues, particularly regarding ASEAN programs and activities, as well as knowledge of ASEAN-Canada strategic relations. Strong communication and technical skills are necessary, along with the ability to work effectively in a team environment and share workloads.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree in International Relations or a relevant policy area. Alternatively, a Bachelor's degree is acceptable if accompanied by a minimum of two years of relevant work experience in an administrative or technical role. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of international relations and the specific dynamics of ASEAN and Canada collaboration.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of two years of relevant work experience in an administrative or technical capacity. This experience should ideally include involvement in Official Development Assistance (ODA) programs, project formulation, planning, implementation, and financial management. Candidates should demonstrate a proven ability to manage projects effectively and possess strong analytical skills to provide clear and concise reports.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is mandatory for this position. This proficiency is essential for effective communication within the ASEAN Secretariat and with various stakeholders. While English is the primary language required, knowledge of additional languages relevant to ASEAN Member States may be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage in a multicultural environment.

Additional Notes:
The successful candidate will be contracted for an initial period of three years, subject to a six-month probation period. The contract may be renewed based on agreement with the ASEAN Secretariat, following standard procedures. The position offers an attractive lump-sum remuneration that will be commensurate with the candidate's experience and qualifications. This role is full-time and involves working within an international context, contributing to significant initiatives aimed at fostering cooperation between ASEAN and Canada.