Programme Assistant

Programme Assistant

World Health Organization (WHO)

October 19, 2026November 19, 2026AdenYemen
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on April 7, 1948, WHO's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. The organization operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of more than 7,000 employees. WHO aims to ensure that all people can attain the highest possible level of health, and it works closely with countries to implement health strategies that align with national priorities and the broader United Nations agenda.

Job Overview:
The Programme Assistant position is crucial for providing comprehensive administrative support to the WHO country office in Yemen. The role involves managing various administrative tasks, including drafting and revising correspondence, reports, and documents, ensuring they meet the required standards. The Programme Assistant will also handle travel arrangements for team members, including visa processing and bookings, while monitoring the implementation of country activities and financial expenditures. This position requires a proactive approach to managing correspondence and documents, ensuring timely follow-ups, and maintaining an organized filing system. The Programme Assistant will also be responsible for organizing meetings and workshops, responding to inquiries, and assisting with the overall administrative processes within the office. This role is essential for facilitating effective communication and coordination among team members and external stakeholders, contributing to the successful implementation of WHO's health initiatives in Yemen.

Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Provide full administrative support to the assigned programme, including drafting, reviewing, and revising correspondence and reports.
  • Prepare and process travel requests for team members, ensuring all logistics are handled efficiently.
  • Manage correspondence and documents, evaluating their urgency and ensuring timely follow-up.
  • Monitor the implementation of country activities and financial expenditures using the GSM system.
  • Compile background materials for planning and evaluation exercises, maintaining an organized filing system.
  • Finalize administrative and logistics preparations for meetings, including payment of per diem to participants.
  • Respond to telephone inquiries and direct technical issues to appropriate staff.
  • Assist in training new administrative staff and participate in field visits as required.

Required Qualifications:
Essential qualifications include completion of secondary education supplemented by secretarial training. A university degree in business administration, social sciences, or a related field is desirable. Candidates should possess strong organizational skills, the ability to maintain good working relationships, and excellent time management skills. Knowledge of WHO rules and procedures is an asset, along with the ability to translate routine correspondence into English.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have completed secondary education with additional secretarial training. A university degree in a relevant field is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's profile for this position.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least five years of progressive administrative experience. Relevant experience within the UN system is desirable, as it provides familiarity with the organization's operations and procedures.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English and the local language is essential for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be beneficial but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position offers an attractive remuneration package, including an annual net base salary starting at USD 18,997, subject to mandatory deductions. Staff members are entitled to 30 days of annual leave. The recruitment process is subject to WHO Staff Regulations and Rules, and candidates are encouraged to apply regardless of their background. WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, and women, persons with disabilities, and nationals from underrepresented Member States are strongly encouraged to apply. The position is subject to local recruitment, and candidates must confirm their vaccination status as required by WHO before undertaking any assignment.
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