Program Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on April 7, 1948, WHO's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. The organization operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of more than 7,000 employees. WHO's primary goal is to ensure that all people can attain the highest possible level of health, which includes addressing health emergencies, promoting universal health coverage, and advancing health equity.

Job Overview:
The Program Assistant will be integral to the success of the Monitoring and Evaluation, Special Initiatives and Change Management Unit (MSC Unit) within WHO. This role is designed to provide comprehensive administrative and programmatic support across various workstreams, including performance and accountability, intelligence and analytics, monitoring and evaluation, quality assurance, learning and change, and strategic initiatives. The Program Assistant will facilitate the smooth operation of these workstreams by assisting in project implementation, maintaining accurate records, and supporting activities that align with the unit's objectives. The position requires collaboration with both internal and external stakeholders, ensuring that all administrative policies and procedures are adhered to, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness and growth of the unit. The MSC Unit aims to strengthen organizational effectiveness through rigorous monitoring and evaluation processes, leveraging insights to inform strategic decision-making and induce proactive change throughout the organization. By utilizing AI-enabled insights, the unit seeks to identify trends, anticipate challenges, and implement innovative solutions that drive continuous improvement in health objectives across African nations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Program Assistant will be responsible for a variety of tasks under the direct supervision of the Team Lead and overall guidance of the Director Programme Management (DPM). Key responsibilities include:

• Providing administrative support for program management, human resources, planning, budgeting, monitoring, evaluation, and resource mobilization.
• Reviewing requisitions for goods and services to ensure accuracy and fund availability.
• Organizing and managing meetings, workshops, and consultations, including handling agendas, minutes, and follow-ups, utilizing AI tools for efficiency.
• Managing contract administration, logistics, and travel arrangements for staff and external contractors in accordance with WHO procedures.
• Maintaining digital and physical filing systems for efficient retrieval of information.
• Assisting with data collection, analysis, and preparation of reports and presentations to support planning and decision-making.
• Maintaining accurate records, databases, and contact lists to ensure organized and accessible information.
• Supporting the creation and updating of visual materials aligned with WHO standards.
• Developing tools for monitoring and evaluating program performance. 1
• Coordinating communications activities, including drafting and proofreading documents for various media. 1
• Performing other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a proven ability to manage multiple tasks, adapt priorities, and develop innovative solutions to complex problems. Strong oral and written communication skills are essential, particularly in reporting and presentations. Experience in fostering collaborations with stakeholders and supporting resource mobilization using value-for-money principles is required. Proficiency in utilizing main generative AI applications is necessary, along with a solid understanding of effective management practices, program planning, and evaluation.

Educational Background:
Essential qualifications include the completion of Secondary School or its equivalent in technical or commercial education. A university degree in Public Health Management, Project/Programme Management, Economics, or Statistics is desirable, providing a strong foundation for the responsibilities of the Program Assistant.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of ten years of experience working with public health programs. Experience within the United Nations system or other international organizations is considered an asset, as it demonstrates familiarity with the operational context and challenges faced in global health initiatives.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, while knowledge of French is highly desirable, given the operational context of the position in a Francophone region. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not required.

Additional Notes:
The position offers an attractive remuneration package, including an annual net base salary starting at 19,231 USD, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. Staff members are entitled to 30 days of annual leave. The WHO is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of unrepresented and underrepresented Member States. The recruitment process may include a written test and/or an asynchronous video assessment. Candidates must provide scanned copies of required degrees and certificates prior to the interview. The position is subject to local recruitment, and candidates must confirm vaccination status as required by WHO before undertaking assignments.