Program Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is a member of the World Bank Group, which is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries. Established to help countries solve their greatest development challenges, the World Bank Group comprises five global institutions dedicated to ending poverty, increasing shared prosperity, and promoting sustainable development. With 189 member countries and over 120 offices worldwide, the organization collaborates with public and private sector partners to invest in groundbreaking projects and utilize data, research, and technology to address urgent global challenges. The IFC specifically focuses on the private sector in emerging markets, operating in more than 100 countries and leveraging private sector solutions to create markets and opportunities. In fiscal year 2025, IFC committed a record $71.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, aiming to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. The Middle East team is part of the MCA region at IFC, covering Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine, Syria, and Yemen, and is united by core values of Impact, Integrity, Respect, Teamwork, and Innovation.

Job Overview:
The Program Assistant position at IFC in Amman, Jordan, is designed to provide proactive administrative and operational support to ensure the seamless execution of projects in the Middle East, Central Asia, and Turkey region. This role is pivotal in enhancing IFC’s strategic impact by fostering collaboration, streamlining processes, and empowering teams to deliver innovative solutions that drive private sector development and economic growth. The Program Assistant will be responsible for high-level administrative support to CMEJA leadership, managing schedules, coordinating meetings, and ensuring timely follow-up on action items. The role also involves organizing and maintaining program documentation, coordinating logistics for events, monitoring program deliverables, and serving as the primary point of contact for inquiries related to CMEJA programs. The Program Assistant will prepare high-quality correspondence, presentations, and reports, support procurement processes, and facilitate cross-functional collaboration within IFC departments. Additionally, the role requires a proactive approach to identifying opportunities for operational efficiency and upholding IFC’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Program Assistant include providing high-level administrative support to CMEJA leadership and missions, managing schedules, coordinating meetings, and ensuring timely follow-up on action items. The Program Assistant will organize and maintain program documentation, ensuring accuracy, accessibility, and compliance with IFC standards and procedures. They will coordinate logistics for internal and external events, including workshops, conferences, and stakeholder engagements, ensuring seamless execution. The role involves monitoring and tracking program deliverables, deadlines, and budgets, providing regular updates to the team, and flagging potential risks or delays. The Program Assistant will serve as the primary point of contact for inquiries related to CMEJA programs, ensuring prompt and professional communication with internal and external stakeholders. They will prepare high-quality correspondence, presentations, and reports, ensuring alignment with IFC branding and communication guidelines. Supporting procurement processes by liaising with vendors, drafting contracts, and ensuring compliance with IFC procurement policies is also a key responsibility. The Program Assistant will facilitate cross-functional collaboration by maintaining effective communication channels between CMEJA and other IFC departments and proactively identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency within CMEJA, recommending and implementing solutions as appropriate. Upholding IFC’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is essential in all interactions and activities.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Program Assistant position include a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional certifications or coursework in business administration, finance, or a related field preferred. A bachelor's degree is strongly preferred. Candidates should have a minimum of 7 years of experience in administrative or executive assistant roles, ideally within international organizations, financial institutions, or development-focused entities. A high level of discretion and professionalism in handling confidential information and sensitive matters is essential. Proactive problem-solving abilities, with a demonstrated capacity to anticipate needs, identify solutions, and adapt to evolving priorities, are required. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in managing complex calendars, coordinating travel arrangements, and organizing high-level meetings with multiple stakeholders. Advanced technical skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and familiarity with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems or other organizational tools, are necessary. Strong written and verbal communication skills in English and Arabic are required, with additional language skills considered an asset. Proven ability to prioritize tasks, manage competing deadlines, and maintain attention to detail in a fast-paced, dynamic environment is crucial. Exceptional interpersonal skills, including the ability to build relationships, collaborate effectively across diverse teams, and demonstrate cultural sensitivity, are also required. A commitment to IFC’s mission and values, including a focus on sustainability, innovation, and private sector development, is essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background needed for the Program Assistant position includes a high school diploma or equivalent as a minimum requirement. However, additional certifications or coursework in business administration, finance, or a related field are preferred. A bachelor's degree is strongly preferred, indicating a higher level of education that aligns with the responsibilities of the role.

Experience:
The level of experience needed for the Program Assistant position is a minimum of 7 years in administrative or executive assistant roles. This experience should ideally be within international organizations, financial institutions, or development-focused entities, showcasing the candidate's ability to navigate complex administrative environments and support high-level executives effectively.

Languages:
The mandatory language for the Program Assistant position is English, as it is essential for communication and documentation. Additionally, proficiency in Arabic is preferred, as it enhances the ability to engage with local stakeholders and contribute to the organization's mission in the Middle East region. Additional language skills are considered an asset, further enriching the candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
The position is a local recruitment opportunity based in Amman, Jordan, with a term duration of 3 years. Preference will be given to local talent, meaning applicants must be authorized to work in the duty station for any employer. The World Bank Group offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. Reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities are also provided. The organization is committed to being an equal opportunity and inclusive employer, ensuring that there is no discrimination based on gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.