Programme Management Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is a part of the United Nations system, established in 199

• Its mission is to promote and protect human rights globally, ensuring that international human rights standards are upheld. The OHCHR operates in various countries, working with governments, civil society, and other stakeholders to address human rights issues. The organization is committed to fostering a culture of respect for human rights and aims to empower individuals and communities to claim their rights. The OHCHR employs a diverse workforce and is dedicated to promoting gender equality and diversity within its ranks.

Job Overview:
The Programme Management Assistant position is situated within the Development, Economic, Social and Cultural Rights Branch (DESC) of the OHCHR in Geneva, Switzerland. The incumbent will report directly to the Chief of the Economic, Social and Cultural Rights Section (ESCRS). This role involves a variety of administrative and programmatic tasks aimed at supporting the planning, implementation, and monitoring of projects related to economic, social, and cultural rights. The assistant will play a crucial role in ensuring that project proposals are well-prepared and compliant with organizational standards, as well as facilitating communication and coordination among various organizational units. The position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently while maintaining a high level of professionalism and attention to detail.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: assisting in the coordination of programme/project planning and preparation; monitoring the status of proposals and documentation; compiling and summarizing data on specific programmes; reviewing project documents for compliance; serving as a focal point for administrative coordination; compiling data on project delivery and drafting status reports; providing general office assistance; responding to complex inquiries; maintaining files and records; organizing meetings and workshops; providing guidance to new staff; assisting with data collection and analysis; and performing other duties as assigned. The role requires strong organizational skills and the ability to work collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. Additionally, five years of experience in programme or project administration, technical cooperation, or a related area is required. Experience in budget or cost planning, as well as in preparing travel arrangements for delegations and meeting participants, is essential. Familiarity with project management, particularly in regional and country offices, is also necessary. Desirable qualifications include one year or more of experience in data analytics and experience working within the United Nations Common system or a similar international organization. Proficiency in using an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system such as Umoja is also advantageous.

Educational Background:
A high school diploma or equivalent is the minimum educational requirement for this position. While no specific job-related qualifications are mentioned, candidates are expected to have a solid understanding of programme/project administration and related processes.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant work experience in programme or project administration, technical cooperation, or a related field. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in budget or cost planning and in preparing travel arrangements for delegations and meeting participants. Experience in project management, particularly with projects implemented in regional and country offices, is essential. Additionally, experience in data analytics or related areas is desirable, as is familiarity with the United Nations Common system or similar international organizations.

Languages:
The working languages of the United Nations Secretariat are English and French. For this position, proficiency in English is required, with a minimum level of proficiency at UN Level III for reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Knowledge of French is an asset but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The appointment for this position is limited to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and is subject to local recruitment rules. The selected candidate will receive a fixed-term appointment limited to the entity, with renewal contingent upon the continued existence of the mandate and availability of funding. The position is subject to local recruitment, meaning that candidates must be residing in the country or within commuting distance of the office. Staff members recruited locally are not eligible for allowances or benefits exclusive to international recruitment. The United Nations is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, particularly women. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request.