Programme Management Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), specifically in the Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Trust Fund Secretariat. The OHCHR is a part of the United Nations and is dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights globally. The organization works to ensure that international human rights standards are upheld and that individuals are protected from violations. The OHCHR engages with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and international organizations, to foster dialogue and cooperation on human rights issues. Established in 1993, the OHCHR operates in multiple countries and employs a diverse workforce committed to advancing human rights for all.

Job Overview:
The Programme Management Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the activities of the LDCs/SIDS Trust Fund, which aims to facilitate the participation of Least Developed Countries and Small Island Developing States in the Human Rights Council's work. The incumbent will provide essential secretarial, administrative, and logistical support, ensuring that the Trust Fund's initiatives are effectively implemented. This includes organizing meetings, managing travel arrangements, and maintaining communication with beneficiary delegates. The role requires a proactive approach to program/project planning and coordination, as well as the ability to compile and present data on various programs and projects. The assistant will also be responsible for updating the Trust Fund's webpages in both English and French, highlighting the importance of bilingual communication in this position. Overall, the Programme Management Assistant will contribute significantly to the operational success of the Trust Fund and its mission to enhance the engagement of LDCs and SIDS in human rights advocacy.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Management Assistant will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including: providing secretarial and administrative support to the Trust Fund's activities; organizing meetings and briefings, both virtually and in-person; managing travel requests and logistics; updating Trust Fund webpages in English and French; assisting in program/project planning and preparation; monitoring the status of proposals and documentation; reviewing project documents for compliance; serving as a focal point for administrative coordination; compiling and summarizing data on project delivery; drafting correspondence and reports; providing general office assistance; supporting meetings of the Human Rights Council; guiding and training new staff; and assisting with data collection and analysis for reporting purposes. The assistant will also be expected to perform other duties as assigned by the Coordinator of the Trust Fund.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. A first-level university degree or higher is preferred, which may reduce the required work experience. A minimum of five years of experience in program or project administration, technical cooperation, or a related area is required. Candidates with a first-level university degree may qualify with three years of relevant experience. Familiarity with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, particularly UMOJA, is desirable, as is experience in organizing meetings and travel for both virtual and in-person participants. Strong organizational and communication skills are essential for success in this role.

Educational Background:
The minimum educational requirement for this position is a high school diploma or equivalent. However, candidates with a first-level university degree or higher are encouraged to apply, as this may enhance their qualifications and reduce the required years of experience. The educational background should ideally include coursework or training related to program management, administration, or a relevant field that supports the functions of the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in program or project administration, technical cooperation, or a related area. For candidates with a first-level university degree or higher, the required experience is reduced to three years. Experience with ERP systems, particularly UMOJA, is considered an asset, as is prior experience in organizing meetings and travel arrangements for participants in both virtual and in-person formats. The role demands a strong understanding of program/project management principles and practices, as well as the ability to work effectively in a diverse and dynamic environment.

Languages:
The working languages of the United Nations Secretariat are English and French. For this position, proficiency in English is mandatory, with a required level of proficiency at UN Level III for reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is desirable, with a recommended proficiency level of UN Level II for reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Candidates should demonstrate strong communication skills in both languages to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders and support the Trust Fund's initiatives.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available for three months, with the possibility of extension subject to the availability of funds. It is classified as a project post and is subject to local recruitment rules. Applicants must be authorized to work for the United Nations in the duty station where the position is located. Selected candidates from outside the duty station will be responsible for their relocation expenses. Staff members subject to local recruitment are not eligible for allowances or benefits exclusive to international recruitment. The selection process may include an assessment exercise followed by a competency-based interview. The United Nations is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from all qualified candidates.