Programme Coordination 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 employs thousands of staff members who work collaboratively with governments and other partners to improve agricultural productivity, enhance food security, and promote sustainable agricultural practices. FAO's work is guided by the principles of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly the goal of ending hunger, achieving food security, improving nutrition, and promoting sustainable agriculture. Within FAO, the Emergency Centre for Transboundary Animal Diseases (ECTAD) plays a crucial role in addressing animal health threats and zoonoses, focusing on preparedness, surveillance, and collaboration across sectors to mitigate risks associated with animal diseases and antimicrobial resistance.

Job Overview:
The Programme Coordination Assistant (SC5) position is integral to the operational success of FAO's initiatives in Bangladesh, particularly within the Emergency Centre for Transboundary Animal Diseases (ECTAD). This role encompasses a wide range of operational, administrative, financial, and logistical support functions aimed at ensuring the timely and effective delivery of programme activities. The Programme Coordination Assistant will work closely with FAO staff and government counterparts, facilitating the implementation of field activities and ensuring compliance with operational standards. The position requires a proactive approach to managing workplans, coordinating field operations, and supporting procurement and travel processes. The successful candidate will be responsible for organizing data, maintaining documentation, and assisting in the preparation of reports, thereby contributing to evidence-based planning and operational compliance. This role is essential for fostering collaboration among stakeholders and ensuring that programme objectives are met efficiently and effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Coordination Assistant will undertake a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: providing operational support for planning and implementing field activities, which involves budget preparation, monitoring, logistical arrangements, and cash advance settlements in collaboration with the Finance Unit. The assistant will also be responsible for processing, formatting, and proofreading reports and documents prior to internal review, compiling routine programme information such as training activities and expenditure summaries, and maintaining systematic records of correspondence and documentation. Additionally, the role includes assisting in the preparation and monitoring of Letters of Agreement (LOAs), ensuring timely submission of reports and payment documentation, and supporting procurement processes by drafting technical specifications and preparing monthly procurement plans. The assistant will manage administrative and financial actions related to travel, coordinate logistics for workshops and events, and provide interpretation and translation support when necessary. The role may also involve managing routine programme queries and correspondence, ensuring effective communication and information flow within the team.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration, public administration, or a related field. A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in programme administration, operations, or office support functions is required. Additionally, candidates must have a working knowledge of English and Bengali and must be nationals of Bangladesh. The role demands strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multicultural environment. Candidates should also demonstrate a commitment to the values and principles of the FAO.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as finance, accounting, business administration, or public administration. It is essential that candidates have obtained their higher educational qualifications from institutions accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED), ensuring that their education meets international standards.

Experience:
The position requires at least five years of progressively responsible experience in programme administration, operations, or office support functions. Candidates should have proven experience in providing operational, administrative, and financial support for development and field-based projects, preferably within UN agencies or international organizations. Experience in budget preparation, monitoring, and maintaining accurate financial records is crucial, as is the ability to work effectively under minimal supervision in a fast-paced environment.

Languages:
Candidates must have a working knowledge of both English and Bengali, as these languages are essential for effective communication within the role. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not mandatory for this position.

Additional Notes:
The FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or processing. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates should be aware that appointment is subject to certification of medical fitness, accreditation, residency or visa requirements, and security clearances. The position may involve full-time work and is aimed at national candidates, specifically those who are citizens of Bangladesh.