Operations & Programme Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on delivering a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and territories, working to ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health, promote gender equality, and empower young people. The organization is committed to the principles of human rights and aims to achieve transformative results in the areas of maternal health, family planning, and the elimination of gender-based violence. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 emphasizes the importance of addressing the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on women's and girls' access to health services and aims to recover lost gains while realizing its goals in the Decade of Action leading up to 2030.

Job Overview:
The Operations & Programme Assistant plays a crucial role in supporting the design, planning, execution, and management of UNFPA's programs. This position involves providing comprehensive administrative, programmatic, logistical, and operational support, particularly in humanitarian contexts. The assistant will apply established systems and procedures to assist in knowledge management, compiling and synthesizing information relevant to population and development, sexual and reproductive health and rights, gender, and youth issues. The role requires close collaboration with various stakeholders, including UN agencies, government bodies, and civil society organizations, to ensure effective program implementation and adherence to UNFPA's strategic commitments. The assistant will also be responsible for ensuring compliance with financial and operational procedures, facilitating the smooth running of office operations, and contributing to the overall mission of UNFPA.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Operations & Programme Assistant will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: providing substantive programmatic and logistical support for UNFPA interventions, workshops, and capacity-building activities; managing financial and administrative tasks such as processing payments, travel arrangements, and procurement of goods and services; maintaining office supplies and inventory; ensuring compliance with audit recommendations; coordinating logistics and supply chain management for UNFPA operations; conducting field monitoring visits to warehouses; assisting in capacity building and training of stakeholders; compiling data for resource mobilization and advocacy activities; supporting the preparation of financial reports; and representing UNFPA in joint UN mechanisms. The assistant will also contribute to knowledge sharing by documenting findings and best practices and will assist in managing cash transfers to implementing partners.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a completed secondary level education, with a first-level university degree in Social Sciences preferred. A minimum of 6 years of previous experience in secretarial, financial, and administrative functions is required. Experience in research assistance, familiarity with UN protocols, and prior experience with the Quantum ERP system are advantageous. Strong interpersonal and organizational skills, computer literacy (including proficiency in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint), and good writing and communication skills are essential. Candidates should demonstrate initiative, sound judgment, and a strong interest in development work, particularly in alignment with UNFPA's mission.

Educational Background:
The position requires completed secondary level education as a minimum, with a first-level university degree in Social Sciences being preferred. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of the role and the context in which UNFPA operates.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience in secretarial, financial, and administrative functions. Experience in research assistance and familiarity with UN protocols will be considered an advantage. Previous experience with the Quantum ERP system and the UN ALL platform is also beneficial. Candidates should possess strong interpersonal and organizational skills, as well as a solid understanding of the operational and programmatic aspects of UNFPA's work.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required, encompassing reading, writing, and speaking skills. A working knowledge of another local or official UN language is desirable, as it can enhance communication with diverse stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package that includes leave days, health insurance, and additional remuneration for pensions and social security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security obligations. UNFPA promotes a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, integrity, and a healthy work-life balance. The organization encourages applications from women, individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to applicants with disabilities upon request to support their participation in the recruitment process. UNFPA is committed to equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all, regardless of personal characteristics and dimensions of diversity.