Program Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a global partnership of five institutions dedicated to ending extreme poverty and promoting sustainable development. Established in 1944, it has grown to include 189 member countries and operates in over 120 offices worldwide. The organization focuses on providing funding and knowledge to developing countries, working closely with public and private sector partners to address pressing global challenges. The World Bank Group aims to foster sustainable growth, job creation, and economic inclusion, with a strong emphasis on diversity and teamwork.

Job Overview:
The Program Assistant position at the World Bank Group's Regional Hub Office in Riyadh is designed to support the administration of operational tasks and functions within the country office. This role is crucial for ensuring the smooth operation of the office, which manages a diverse portfolio of advisory and knowledge services in collaboration with government and private sector institutions in Saudi Arabia and the wider MENAAP region. The Program Assistant will report directly to the Regional Hub Manager and will be responsible for a variety of administrative tasks that facilitate the effective functioning of the office. This includes organizing meetings, managing schedules, and providing support to practice managers, all while maintaining a high standard of professionalism and attention to detail.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Program Assistant will undertake a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: organizing meetings, conference calls, and workshops; providing administrative assistance to practice managers; preparing and formatting project documentation; maintaining a coherent filing system; developing project timelines; responding to inquiries and preparing correspondence; managing meeting schedules; extracting and reporting on project disbursement data; translating documents between English and Arabic; processing travel requests; drafting routine correspondence; recording and disseminating meeting minutes; coordinating schedules; conducting ad hoc inquiries; and supporting other staff as needed. This role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of a Bachelor's degree and have 2-5 years of relevant experience. They should demonstrate advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office applications and possess strong organizational and problem-solving skills. The ability to work independently with minimal supervision, manage multiple tasks, and maintain attention to detail is essential. Familiarity with institutional policies and procedures relevant to the World Bank is also required, along with a client-oriented attitude and a commitment to teamwork and collaboration.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's degree is the minimum educational requirement for this position. Candidates with degrees in fields related to administration, business, or international development may be particularly well-suited for this role, as they will have a foundational understanding of the operational context in which the World Bank operates.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have between 2 to 5 years of relevant experience in administrative support or a similar role. Experience working in international organizations or in a multicultural environment is highly desirable, as it will provide valuable insights into the workings of the World Bank and its mission.

Languages:
Proficiency in English and Arabic is mandatory for this position, as the role involves translating documents and communicating with stakeholders in both languages. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment opportunity, meaning that preference will be given to candidates who are authorized to work in Saudi Arabia. The term duration for this position is three years, and it is a full-time role. The World Bank Group 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.