Programme Associate (G-6)

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development. UNICEF is known for its inclusive culture and attractive compensation and benefits package, emphasizing the importance of building careers that serve children and communities worldwide.

Job Overview:
The Programme Associate (PA) at the G-6 level plays a crucial role within a pooled function, collaborating with two other PAs under the supervision of the Quality Assurance Specialist. This position is integral to operational delivery, requiring coordination with various units such as Programme, Operations, Finance, and Supply. The PA will engage with external partners, particularly concerning HACT support, and is responsible for providing a wide range of programme, administrative, HACT, and procedural support to ensure effective programme delivery. The role demands proactive judgment, anticipation of needs, and recommendations that enhance programme planning, implementation, and reporting. The PA will also promote the use of digital systems, including AI-based tools, to improve efficiency and streamline tasks, thereby contributing to the overall success of UNICEF's mission in South Africa.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Associate will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: facilitating the implementation and monitoring of programme results; ensuring timely execution of tasks in accordance with UNICEF regulations; liaising with multiple internal units and external partners; providing administrative support related to programme funding and donor reporting; managing data and analysis for programme effectiveness; coordinating events and capacity-building initiatives; and promoting the use of digital tools to enhance operational efficiency. The PA will also be expected to contribute to the development of reports and documentation that reflect programme outcomes and impact, ensuring alignment with UNICEF's strategic goals.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of six years of relevant administrative and/or clerical experience in fields such as administration, programme funding, monitoring and evaluation, operations, supply management, and data management. Proficiency in SAP VISION, HACT, Microsoft Office, SharePoint, Power BI, and AI-enabled digital tools is essential. Candidates should demonstrate strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. Knowledge of UNICEF's operational frameworks and procedures is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
Completion of secondary education is required for this position. However, professional and/or university courses related to the field of work are highly desirable, indicating a preference for candidates who have pursued further education in relevant disciplines.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of six years of relevant experience, particularly in administrative roles that involve programme management, operations, and data analysis. Experience within the United Nations system or other international organizations is considered an asset, as is relevant experience in development contexts, especially in fragile or humanitarian settings.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this role. Knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) or a local language is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in diverse environments.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and is based in Pretoria, South Africa. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, nationality, or background. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Candidates should be aware that UNICEF does not charge any processing fees during the recruitment process and maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards misconduct. All selected candidates will undergo rigorous background checks and must comply with medical clearance and vaccination requirements as mandated by UNICEF.