Programme Management Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. Established by the UN General Assembly Resolution 53/242 in 1999, the Environment Management Group (EMG) is chaired by the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Executive Director of UNEP and aims to enhance cooperation in the field of environment and human settlements within and beyond the UN system. The UNEP EMG Secretariat is located in Nairobi, Kenya, and plays a crucial role in coordinating environmental initiatives globally.

Job Overview:
The Programme Management Assistant will be responsible for supporting the coordination of programme and project planning and preparation for the EMG and the Sustainable UN Initiative (SUN). This role involves monitoring the status of programme/project proposals, compiling and summarizing information/data on specific programmes, reviewing project documents for compliance, and serving as a focal point for administrative coordination of programme/project implementation activities. The assistant will also draft correspondence, prepare reports, manage databases, and provide guidance to new or junior staff. The position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work collaboratively with various organizational units to ensure the smooth execution of projects.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme Management Assistant include: assisting in the coordination of programme/project planning and preparation work; monitoring the status of programme/project proposals; compiling and summarizing information/data on specific programmes; reviewing project documents for completeness and compliance; verifying budget revisions and availability of funds; serving as a focal point for administrative coordination; compiling and entering data on project delivery; drafting correspondence and reports; providing general office assistance; managing and updating internal databases; assisting with data collection and analysis; providing guidance/training to new/junior staff; and performing other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. Additionally, they must have passed the United Nations Administrative Support Assessment Test (ASAT) at Headquarters or an equivalent locally administered test. Knowledge of internal policies, processes, and procedures related to programme/project administration is essential. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, planning, and organizing skills, as well as the ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines.

Educational Background:
A high school diploma or equivalent is required for this position. Candidates with a first-level university degree or higher may have their minimum required experience reduced to three years. The educational background should ideally include coursework or training related to project management, administration, or a relevant field.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of experience in programme or project administration, technical cooperation, general office support, or related areas is required. Candidates with a first-level university degree or higher may qualify with three years of relevant experience. Experience working with the United Nations or similar international organizations is essential, and familiarity with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and recruitment systems is desirable. Experience in social media communications and data analytics is also beneficial.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the United Nations, and proficiency in French is considered an asset but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The appointment for this position is limited to the United Nations Environment Programme and is for a period of one year, subject to extension based on the continued existence of the mandate and availability of funding. The position is subject to local recruitment, meaning that candidates must be recruited within the country or commuting distance of the office. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities.