Program Assistant

Program Assistant

World Bank

September 5, 2026September 17, 2026MumbaiIndia
Job Description
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 develop solutions for 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. For more information, visit https://www.ifc.org.

Job Overview:
The Program Assistant position at the South Asia Department of the IFC in Mumbai is designed to provide high-quality administrative support to senior staff members. The role encompasses a variety of tasks aimed at ensuring the smooth operation of the department. The Program Assistant will be responsible for scheduling appointments, managing documents for signature and approval, and handling correspondence. The position requires a proactive approach to monitoring tasks and following up on various assignments. The assistant will also be involved in drafting and proofreading materials, ensuring that all communications adhere to the organization's standards. Additionally, the role includes updating and monitoring the Industry Pipeline and project timelines, ensuring that all data on internal IFC systems is accurate and current. The Program Assistant will assist in logistical planning for events such as conferences and workshops, track budgets and project timelines, and provide logistical support for staff travel and transportation. This position is crucial for maintaining the efficiency and effectiveness of the department's operations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Program Assistant include, but are not limited to: providing high-quality support to senior staff, including scheduling appointments and monitoring documents for signature; filing and following up on tasks; handling incoming correspondence and queries; drafting and sending routine correspondence; updating and monitoring the Industry Pipeline and project timelines; drafting and proofreading materials; producing complex text and reports using word processing or desktop publishing skills; assisting in managing IFC internal processes; preparing and planning logistics for events; tracking assigned budgets and summarizing project-related information; providing logistical support for travel and visa coordination; assisting staff with project-related tasks; coordinating in-person and virtual meetings; and serving as a backup to other administrative staff as needed.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for the Program Assistant position should possess a Bachelor’s degree along with a minimum of five years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. The candidate should demonstrate a high degree of motivation, initiative, flexibility, and reliability, with the ability to manage multiple concurrent tasks. An adaptive learner who is a self-starter is preferred, as the candidate should be able to work independently after onboarding. The candidate should also have a strong understanding of institutional priorities, policies, and operational procedures, and be a dedicated team player with excellent organizational skills. The ability to prioritize assignments and adapt to changing business needs while producing high-quality work under pressure is essential. Excellent communication skills in English, both written and verbal, are mandatory, and fluency in one major Indian language is preferred. Proficiency in basic computer software, including Microsoft Office applications, is required, along with the ability to use the Internet for research and data retrieval.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the foundational knowledge necessary to perform the duties of the Program Assistant effectively. The degree should ideally be complemented by relevant coursework or training that enhances the candidate's administrative and organizational skills.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of relevant experience in administrative support or a similar role. This experience should demonstrate the candidate's ability to manage tasks efficiently, work under pressure, and support senior staff effectively. Experience in an international organization or a similar environment is highly desirable, as it provides insight into the operational procedures and cultural dynamics of such institutions.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization. Additionally, proficiency in one major Indian language is preferred, which would enhance the candidate's ability to communicate effectively with local stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment opportunity, meaning that preference will be given to applicants who are authorized to work in India. The term duration for this position is three years, and it is a full-time role. 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 and without discrimination based on gender, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.
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