Program Assistant, Administrative Support, Bogota Office

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group (WBG) is a unique partnership of five global institutions dedicated to ending poverty, increasing shared prosperity, and promoting sustainable development. Established with the mission to help countries solve their greatest development challenges, the WBG is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries. With 189 member countries and over 120 offices worldwide, the WBG collaborates with public and private sector partners to invest in groundbreaking projects, utilizing data, research, and technology to address urgent global challenges. The International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the WBG, focuses on the private sector in emerging markets, working in more than 100 countries to create markets and opportunities. In fiscal year 2025, IFC committed a record $71.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, leveraging private sector solutions to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. The Regional Office for Colombia (CCMCO) is based in Bogotá and plays a central role in IFC’s Latin America and Caribbean Department, responsible for leading the formulation of IFC’s regional strategy and monitoring project performance.

Job Overview:
The Program Assistant position at the IFC's Bogotá office is integral to the Administrative and Client Support (ACS) team. The role involves providing comprehensive office support to the IFC Colombia team and management, contributing significantly to the achievement of the unit's work program. The candidate will be responsible for specialized support in areas such as database management, task management, event planning, travel arrangements, and editorial assistance. The position requires the ability to coordinate team schedules, manage complex work assignments, and handle communications with clients and government partners. The Program Assistant will also be tasked with ensuring quality enhancement for projects and documents, drafting and editing correspondence, maintaining filing systems, and supporting analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">financial analysis of portfolio clients. This role is crucial for the smooth operation of the team and the successful execution of IFC's mission in Colombia.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Program Assistant include providing a wide range of office support to the IFC Colombia team, which encompasses specialized support for database management, task management, major event planning, logistics, travel arrangements, and editorial assistance. The candidate will coordinate team schedules, monitor changes, and communicate relevant information to staff and clients. They will independently undertake diverse and complex work assignments, interpret existing procedures, and assist with the implementation of the unit work program. The role also involves handling incoming and outgoing communications, ensuring adherence to quality standards for projects and documents, drafting and editing correspondence, maintaining accurate filing systems, and backing up administrative team colleagues when necessary. Additionally, the Program Assistant will support the elaboration of reports related to business development, assist in client relationship management, support financial analysis of portfolio clients, and help prepare documentation for IFC internal processes.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree along with 5 years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Previous work experience in a range of secretarial, administrative, logistics, and finance duties is essential. Experience in an international organization or knowledge of World Bank Group procedures and tools is considered a plus. The ideal candidate should demonstrate initiative, resourcefulness, and good judgment in handling confidential information. Excellent communication skills in both English and Spanish are required, along with proficiency in Microsoft Office applications. Effective time management, organizational skills, and the ability to produce high-quality work under pressure are also necessary. A strong client service orientation and the ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment are important attributes for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Program Assistant position includes a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. This educational foundation is essential to ensure that the candidate possesses the necessary knowledge and skills to perform the duties associated with the role effectively. The degree should ideally be complemented by relevant coursework or training that aligns with the responsibilities of administrative support and office management within an international organization.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of experience in a broad range of secretarial, administrative, logistics, and finance duties. Candidates with experience in international organizations or the private sector, particularly those familiar with the World Bank Group's procedures and tools, will be given preference. The experience should demonstrate the candidate's ability to handle complex tasks, manage multiple priorities, and contribute to the overall effectiveness of the team.

Languages:
Proficiency in English and Spanish is mandatory for this position, as the candidate will be required to communicate effectively with clients and stakeholders in both languages. Strong written and oral communication skills in these languages are essential for drafting correspondence, handling communications, and supporting the team in various capacities. While proficiency in additional languages may be beneficial, it is not explicitly required for this role.

Additional Notes:
The Program Assistant position is a local recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 3 years. The role is full-time and is based in Bogotá, Colombia. Preference will be given to local talent, meaning applicants must be authorized to work in the duty station for any employer. The World Bank Group offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to being an equal opportunity and inclusive employer, ensuring that all individuals are treated fairly regardless of gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.