Staff Assistant

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Staff Assistant
Location: Geneve
Country: Switzerland
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located in the Front Office of the Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), which is based in Geneva, Switzerland. The UNECE was established to promote pan-European economic integration and cooperation among its member states. The organization focuses on various areas including sustainable development, trade, and transport, and aims to foster economic growth and improve living standards in the region. The UNECE operates in multiple countries across Europe and has a diverse workforce dedicated to its mission of enhancing economic cooperation and integration.

Job Overview:
The Staff Assistant plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the Front Office of the Executive Secretary. This position requires a proactive individual who can manage a variety of administrative tasks while supporting the Executive Secretary directly. The Staff Assistant will be responsible for handling incoming and outgoing correspondence, maintaining filing systems, arranging meetings, and managing travel logistics. The role demands a high level of professionalism, attention to detail, and the ability to prioritize tasks effectively. The incumbent will also be expected to demonstrate strong communication skills and a commitment to gender equality in the workplace.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Staff Assistant will perform a wide range of duties including: receiving, reviewing, and registering all incoming mail, ensuring urgent matters are brought to the Executive Secretary's attention; managing outgoing correspondence and ensuring proper documentation; drafting routine correspondence and maintaining both physical and electronic filing systems; arranging meetings and appointments with various stakeholders; screening telephone calls and prioritizing communications; handling protocol issues; making travel arrangements and monitoring travel expenditures; providing administrative support on office procedures; serving as the budget focal point for the office; and performing any other duties as required by the Executive Secretary.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess at least seven years of administrative experience, with a reduction to five years for those holding a first-level university degree or higher. Experience providing support to senior officials is desirable, as is experience with diplomatic personnel and international organizations. The role requires a strong understanding of office and administrative support processes, as well as the ability to work efficiently under pressure and meet deadlines.

Educational Background:
A high school diploma or equivalent is required for this position. While no specific job-related qualifications are mentioned, candidates with higher education may have an advantage in the selection process.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of relevant administrative experience. Candidates with a first-level university degree or higher may qualify with five years of experience. It is also preferred that candidates have at least three years of experience supporting senior officials, particularly in an international or diplomatic context.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is also required, while knowledge of Russian is considered desirable. This multilingual requirement reflects the diverse nature of the United Nations and its operations.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, meaning that applicants must be authorized to work in Switzerland. Selected candidates from outside the duty station will be responsible for their relocation expenses. Staff members recruited locally are not eligible for international allowances or benefits. The United Nations emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its hiring practices and does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.