Programme Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead United Nations agency focused on delivering a world where every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has a mission to promote sustainable development through the implementation of the Programme of Action of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD). The organization emphasizes the importance of human rights and gender equality, striving to end unmet needs for family planning, preventable maternal deaths, and gender-based violence. UNFPA is committed to transparency, ethical standards, and delivering high-impact results in a rapidly changing development landscape.

Job Overview:
The Programme Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the Guatemala Office by contributing to the preparation, implementation, and monitoring of country programmes. This position is designed to provide essential operational support in administration, travel, logistics, and knowledge management. The Programme Assistant will be integral to ensuring smooth coordination and effective delivery of UNFPA's objectives in Guatemala. The role involves working closely with the Country Programme Officer and the Programme Team Coordinator to provide timely operational and programmatic support to the Country Office. The Programme Assistant will be at the heart of the Country Office’s efforts to drive meaningful changes, ensuring the effective implementation of initiatives that advance UNFPA’s mission of improving lives and promoting sustainable development. This dynamic role requires an organized, proactive individual who thrives in a collaborative environment, contributing to a mission-driven organization and making a tangible difference in the lives of people across the country.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Assistant will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Country Programme Planning and Implementation Support: Compiling and summarizing data for budget setups, monitoring progress, and preparing reports to identify gaps for decision-making.
• Programme Oversight Support: Engaging with Implementing Partners (IPs) through competitive processes, agreements, and work plans, and monitoring funds transferred to them.
• Administration, Procurement, and Supplies: Supporting procurement processes, hiring individual consultants, and maintaining digital filing systems.
• Logistical Support and Travel Management: Organizing internal and external events, coordinating travel documentation, and ensuring compliance with travel reporting.
• Information Management: Drafting correspondence, briefings, and multimedia presentations.
• Knowledge Management and Capacity Building: Facilitating internal knowledge sharing, organizing training, and supporting communication material dissemination.
• Performing other duties as assigned by the Assistant Representative/Programme Team Coordinator.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have completed secondary school, preferably supplemented by technical or university courses related to public administration, finance, or economics. They should possess at least 5 years of relevant experience in programming, including oversight and administrative work. Previous experience within the UN System or other international organizations is advantageous. Strong organizational, interpersonal, communication, and administrative skills are essential, along with proficiency in computer applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Familiarity with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems like OracleCloud/Quantum is an asset, as is knowledge of financial principles and experience with finance and spreadsheet software.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes the completion of secondary school, ideally supplemented by further technical or university courses that relate to the work of the organization, particularly in areas such as public administration, finance, or economics. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the operational and programmatic aspects of the role.

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of relevant experience in programming, which includes oversight and administrative work. Candidates with previous experience working within the UN System or other international organizations will have a competitive advantage. The role demands strong organizational skills and the ability to manage work routines with minimal supervision, indicating a need for a well-rounded professional background.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication in Guatemala. Additionally, a working knowledge of English is required. Knowledge of other official UN languages, particularly French and Portuguese, is considered desirable and may enhance a candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and is based in Guatemala City, Guatemala. UNFPA is committed to promoting gender equality and diversity within its workforce, encouraging applications from women, individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to applicants with disabilities upon request to support their participation in the recruitment process. The organization emphasizes equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all candidates, regardless of personal characteristics.