Senior Program Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank is a prominent global institution established to provide financial and technical assistance to developing countries. Its mission is to end extreme poverty and promote shared prosperity by investing in projects that foster sustainable development. The organization comprises five institutions and has a membership of 189 countries, with over 120 offices worldwide. The World Bank plays a crucial role in addressing global challenges through partnerships with public and private sectors, utilizing data, research, and technology to create impactful solutions.

Job Overview:
The Senior Program Assistant position at the World Bank in Singapore is designed for a highly organized and proactive professional who will provide essential administrative and operational support to the Regional Practice Director (RPD) of the East Asia and Pacific (EAP) region. This role is pivotal in ensuring the smooth functioning of the front office, requiring a deep understanding of the Bank's systems and operations. The selected candidate will be responsible for managing complex calendars, travel arrangements, and correspondence, while also serving as the primary point of contact for all front office matters. The position demands strong interpersonal skills, sound judgment, and a client-focused approach, as the assistant will coordinate closely with various stakeholders to facilitate the delivery of the work program and support the overall objectives of the department.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Program Assistant will undertake a variety of duties, including but not limited to: providing high-level executive support to the RPD, managing priorities and workflow, leading calendar and travel management, planning and coordinating engagements and conferences, ensuring quality assurance of documents and communications, serving as a liaison with internal and external stakeholders, supporting administrative processes such as contracts and payments, and driving office efficiency through effective meeting coordination and research. The role also involves maintaining confidentiality, supporting colocated staff, and fostering collaboration across different units and offices.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree along with at least 8 years of relevant professional experience, ideally within international development organizations or similar environments. A strong familiarity with English-speaking, multicultural settings is essential. The ability to handle sensitive matters with discretion and sound judgment is crucial, particularly in a senior management context. Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English are required, along with strong interpersonal skills to build effective working relationships across diverse teams.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree is the minimum educational requirement for this position. Candidates with advanced degrees in relevant fields such as international relations, public administration, or business management may have an advantage, although the emphasis is placed on relevant professional experience.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of relevant professional experience, with a preference for candidates who have worked in international development or similar sectors. Experience in administrative support roles, particularly in fast-paced environments, is highly valued. Candidates should demonstrate a proven track record of managing complex workflows and delivering high-quality outputs under tight deadlines.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the World Bank. While no additional languages are specified as preferred, proficiency in other languages relevant to the East Asia and Pacific region may be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment opportunity based in Singapore, with a term duration of 4 years. The World Bank offers a comprehensive benefits package, including retirement plans, medical and life insurance, paid leave, and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, or other characteristics.