Programme Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries, working to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization is committed to achieving three transformative results: ending preventable maternal deaths, ending unmet need for family planning, and ending gender-based violence and harmful practices. UNFPA's mission is to promote the right of every woman, man, and child to enjoy a life of health and equal opportunity, and it plays a crucial role in the global efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The Programme Assistant plays a vital role in supporting the effective planning and execution of UNFPA programme activities. This position requires a client- and results-oriented approach to interpreting rules, procedures, and guidelines related to administrative and programmatic processes. The Programme Assistant will provide logistical, administrative, and financial support to the country office and UNFPA-supported projects. This includes managing data, supporting the implementation of programmes and projects, and ensuring compliance with established policies and procedures. The role is essential for developing appropriate mechanisms and systems that facilitate the smooth operation of UNFPA's initiatives, ultimately contributing to the organization's mission of improving reproductive health and rights.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Assistant will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: supporting Programme Analysts and Technicians in administrative activities; providing administrative support for the development of Annual Work Plans with implementing partners; assisting in the management of disbursements, accountabilities, and budget revisions; drafting information materials and terms of reference; providing logistical and administrative support for travel, meetings, and workshops; making requisition requests in Quantum and payment requests in AODocs; ensuring that all transactions have the necessary supporting documentation; preparing specifications and requests for purchases; maintaining supplier records in Quantum; assisting in budget preparation and cost estimates; monitoring expenditures and verifying fund availability; drafting letters and maintaining a tracking system; and performing any other tasks as required. The Programme Assistant will also alternate with the Procurement Officer and Administrative Assistant for shopping and administrative processes, respectively, when necessary.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess completed secondary education as a minimum requirement. A first-level university degree in Business Administration, Public Accounting, or other relevant fields is highly valued. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of five years of experience in assistance projects, preferably within international cooperation organizations. Relevant work experience in logistical, administrative, and financial areas is essential, along with experience collaborating with government entities, NGOs, and civil society institutions. Proficiency in MS Office applications and Google Suite is required, and knowledge of integrated corporate resource management systems in a web environment is desirable. Strong writing and communication skills, as well as the ability to work effectively in a team, are also necessary.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes completed secondary education as a baseline. Candidates with a first-level university degree in fields such as Business Administration, Public Accounting, or other relevant areas will be given preference. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the administrative and financial aspects of the role, as well as for effectively supporting the Programme Analysts and Technicians in their responsibilities.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in assistance projects, ideally within international cooperation organizations. Candidates should have a solid background in logistical, administrative, and financial functions, as well as experience working with government agencies, NGOs, and civil society institutions. This level of experience is essential for ensuring that the Programme Assistant can effectively support the implementation of UNFPA's programmes and projects, manage data, and adhere to established policies and procedures.

Languages:
The Programme Assistant must have an excellent command of the Spanish language, including effective writing and communication skills. Knowledge of the English language is desirable, as it may facilitate communication with international partners and stakeholders. Proficiency in these languages is critical for the successful execution of the role's responsibilities, particularly in drafting documents and communicating with various stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package that includes leave days, health insurance, and additional remuneration for pensions and social security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security obligations. UNFPA is committed to providing a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, integrity, and a healthy work-life balance. The organization encourages women and individuals from underrepresented groups, including the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, and persons with disabilities, to apply. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to applicants with disabilities upon request to support their participation in the recruitment process. UNFPA promotes equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all candidates, regardless of personal characteristics.