Programme Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is an international organization that aims to assist member states in combating illicit drugs, crime, and terrorism. Established in 1997, UNODC operates globally with a mission to promote justice, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and sustainable development. The organization works in over 150 countries and has a significant presence in Southeast Asia and the Pacific through its Regional Office for Southeast Asia and the Pacific (ROSEAP) located in Bangkok, Thailand. UNODC's initiatives focus on strengthening the capacity of governments to address transnational organized crime, corruption, and drug-related issues, contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 16, which emphasizes peace, justice, and strong institutions.

Job Overview:
The Programme Assistant position at UNODC's Regional Office for Southeast Asia and the Pacific (ROSEAP) is crucial for supporting the operational effectiveness of the Mekong Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Secretariat. This role involves assisting in the organization of international and national conferences, meetings, training sessions, and workshops across Mekong countries. The Programme Assistant will facilitate travel arrangements for participants attending UNODC events and manage documentation related to consultants' contracts and payment requests. Additionally, the position requires providing support for project-related financial processes, including payment requests and procurement of goods and services necessary for project implementation. The Programme Assistant will work closely with various stakeholders, including UNODC personnel and vendors, to ensure compliance with UN regulations and timely delivery of services.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme Assistant include:

• Assisting in the organization of international and national conferences, meetings, training sessions, and workshops in Mekong countries, including travel to event locations as necessary.
• Facilitating travel-related preparations for participants attending UNODC events.
• Preparing documentation required for the issuance and management of consultants' contracts and following up on payment requests as per their terms of reference.
• Supporting assigned projects and relevant UNODC personnel in Bangkok with payment requests in the UNODC administrative systems (Umoja and FOHRM), as well as payment reconciliation and expenditure verification.
• Facilitating the procurement of goods and services for assigned projects, ensuring compliance with regulations and procedures.
• Conducting low-value procurement (up to US$ 10,000) and initiating procurement processes for all types of goods and services required under assigned projects.
• Collecting and comparing offers from vendors and liaising with the UNODC Procurement Team in Bangkok and relevant personnel at UNDP Country Offices to ensure adherence to UN rules and regulations.
• Liaising with bidders and vendors, following up with suppliers and expediters to ensure timely delivery of goods and services.
• Performing other assignments as delegated by the Regional Coordinator.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for the Programme Assistant position should possess strong organizational and planning skills, as well as a high level of professionalism and accountability. The candidate should be able to work effectively in a team environment and demonstrate the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. Attention to detail and the ability to adhere to deadlines are essential. The candidate should also have a good understanding of UNODC's mission and objectives, particularly in relation to drug control and crime prevention in the Southeast Asia and Pacific region.

Educational Background:
Candidates applying for the Programme Assistant position should have a minimum of a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as social sciences, international relations, public administration, or a related discipline. A higher degree or specialized training in project management or procurement would be an advantage. Knowledge of UNODC's work and familiarity with the regional context of Southeast Asia and the Pacific is also beneficial.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have at least 2-3 years of relevant work experience in administrative support, project management, or procurement within an international organization or similar environment. Experience in organizing events, managing contracts, and handling financial processes is highly desirable. Familiarity with UN administrative systems and procedures would be an asset, as well as experience working in a multicultural setting.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the working language of UNODC. Knowledge of additional languages spoken in the Southeast Asia and Pacific region, such as Thai, Vietnamese, or Lao, would be considered an asset and beneficial for communication with local stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Bangkok, Thailand, and is considered a full-time role. The Programme Assistant will be expected to work in a dynamic and fast-paced environment, collaborating with various teams and stakeholders. The role may involve occasional travel within the Mekong region for event organization and project support. UNODC offers a competitive compensation package, including benefits such as health insurance, annual leave, and opportunities for professional development.