Programme Associate

Job Posting Organization:
UN Women was established in July 2010 as part of the UN reform agenda to enhance the impact of gender equality and women's empowerment initiatives. The organization is dedicated to eliminating discrimination against women and girls, empowering women, and achieving equality between women and men. UN Women operates globally, providing leadership and support to Member States in their efforts to promote gender equality and gender mainstreaming. The organization has been active in Afghanistan for two decades, focusing on the unique vulnerabilities faced by Afghan women and girls amid ongoing humanitarian crises. UN Women Afghanistan has five key program priorities, including Integrated Programming and Localization, Women's Civil Society Unit, Policy and Research, Economic Resilience and Empowerment, and Coordination, Access and Humanitarian Response. The organization operates through its main office in Kabul and five sub-offices in Balkh, Bamyan, Herat, Kandahar, and Nangarhar, emphasizing the importance of sub-national engagement in supporting Afghan women and girls during the current crisis.

Job Overview:
The Programme Associate will play a crucial role in assisting the delivery of UN Women programs and projects at the Sub-Office level in Jalalabad. This position involves analyzing results achieved during program implementation and supporting the application of systems and procedures. The Programme Associate will collaborate closely with the UN Women Programme and Operations teams, De facto Authorities, and civil society partners to ensure successful program implementation. The role includes providing operational, administrative, and programmatic support, contributing to research, financial management, and program implementation. The Programme Associate will also be responsible for advanced administrative and logistical support in formulating and managing programs, ensuring that all activities align with UN Women’s mission and objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Associate will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Providing advanced administrative support in the preparation of work plans, budgets, and proposals for the Sub-Office.
• Offering technical guidance to country offices and executing agencies on routine delivery and reporting of program-supported activities and finances.
• Coordinating the collection of information for program audits and supporting the implementation of audit recommendations.
• Developing or updating standard operating procedures, guidelines, and templates for program management.
• Reviewing program data for the ACO website and compiling information for documents and reports.
• Managing financial aspects of the Sub-Office, including creating projects in the Quantum system, preparing budget revisions, and monitoring program finances.
• Overseeing logistical arrangements for meetings, workshops, and events, including travel arrangements.
• Preparing public information materials and briefing packets for high-level officials.
• Supporting resource mobilization efforts by preparing agreements and processing information from donors. 1
• Facilitating knowledge building and sharing by organizing training for office personnel and partners.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have a minimum of secondary education, with a Bachelor’s degree in business or public administration being desirable. At least 7 years of progressively responsible experience in administration or program management/support is required. Proficiency in using multiple office software packages and experience in supporting a team are essential. Familiarity with modern web-based ERP systems, preferably Oracle Cloud, is desirable. Candidates should demonstrate strong knowledge of program management and possess excellent financial and budgeting skills, as well as IT skills.

Educational Background:
The minimum educational requirement for this position is the completion of secondary education. A Bachelor’s degree in business or public administration is preferred, as it provides a solid foundation for the administrative and program management tasks associated with the role.

Experience:
The position requires at least 7 years of progressively responsible experience in administration or program management/support. This experience should include working in a computer environment with multiple office software packages and supporting a team effectively. Familiarity with modern web-based ERP systems, particularly Oracle Cloud, is considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Pashto/Dari is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another official UN language, such as French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is desirable and would be an advantage in the role.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Jalalabad, Afghanistan, and is likely to be full-time. UN Women is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all employment decisions are based on qualifications and competence. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy for conduct incompatible with its aims, including discrimination and harassment. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks, including verification of academic credentials and employment history. Applicants must ensure that all sections of the application form are completed to avoid disqualification from the recruitment process.