Portfolio Associate (Admin)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has been operational in Bangladesh since 1972, focusing on promoting democratic governance, climate adaptation, environmental protection, and inclusive growth. The organization aims to assist Bangladesh in achieving equitable and sustainable development. UNDP has established itself as a key partner in co-designing policy solutions, building national capacities, and promoting innovations to meet the country's developmental aspirations. The organization operates with a mission to support Bangladesh in its transition towards a more sustainable and resilient economy, particularly through initiatives like the Circular Economy Portfolio and the Global Programme on National Biodiversity Finance Plans.

Job Overview:
The Portfolio Associate (Admin) will play a crucial role in providing administrative, operational, financial, and logistical support to the Circular Economy Portfolio and the PIMS 9850 Biodiversity Finance Plans Bangladesh Project. This position is essential for ensuring the smooth, compliant, and efficient management of project resources in accordance with UNDP's financial rules and regulations. The associate will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including the preparation of project Annual Work Plans and Budgets, managing procurement processes, and providing logistical support for meetings and workshops. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances while maintaining a focus on achieving project goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Portfolio Associate (Admin) include:

• General Administration Support: - Provide day-to-day general administration and operational management support in compliance with UNDP rules and regulations. - Assist in preparing project Annual Work Plans and Budgets, including Multi-Year Budgets. - Review and process payments/claims for staff and service providers, ensuring timely settlement as per UNDP rules. - Support the procurement process by reviewing requests and initiating procurement procedures for goods and services. - Maintain files and records relevant to procurement cases and prepare quarterly/yearly procurement plans.
• Administrative, Travel, and Logistical Support: - Provide logistical support for meetings, workshops, conferences, and trainings. - Manage travel arrangements, including travel requests, claims, and ticketing. - Ensure proper documentation for timely delivery of goods and services.
• Knowledge Building: - Participate in organizing training for office staff on programme/operations related issues. - Contribute to knowledge networks and communities of practice.
• Other Duties: - Perform other duties related to personnel, administrative, and financial issues of the project as required.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Portfolio Associate (Admin) position include: - A minimum of six (6) years of progressively relevant experience in administration, finance, and/or programme/project support with Secondary Education, or three (3) years with a Bachelor’s degree. - Experience in administration and programme/project support is essential. - Proficiency in using computers and office software packages (MS Word, Excel, etc.) is required. - Knowledge of UN/UNDP administration, programme/project, and procurement processes is desired. - Experience in travel management within the UN or INGO sector is a plus, including familiarity with travel requests, ticketing, and logistics documentation.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes: - Secondary Education is required. - A university degree (Bachelor’s degree) in Business, Finance, or Public Administration will be given due consideration, although it is not mandatory. - Specialized training in administration or office management would be an asset.

Experience:
The level of experience needed for the Portfolio Associate (Admin) position is as follows: - A minimum of six (6) years of relevant experience in administration, finance, and/or programme/project support is required for candidates with Secondary Education. - For candidates with a Bachelor’s degree, a minimum of three (3) years of relevant experience is required. - Experience in administration and programme/project support is essential, along with familiarity with UNDP processes and systems.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Bangla (both written and oral) is required for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
Additional notes regarding the position include: - The role is part of the Circular Economy Portfolio and PIMS 9850 Biodiversity Finance Plans Bangladesh Project team. - The position is supervised by the Portfolio Lead under the overall strategic guidance of the Deputy Resident Representative. - UNDP is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity, encouraging qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. - The organization does not tolerate harassment or discrimination and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace. - UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for similar positions. - Applicants are advised to read UNDP’s guidance on using AI responsibly in recruitment and selection.