Programme Associate

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Programme Associate
Location: Vientiane
Country: Laos
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund) is the lead UN agency focused on reproductive health and rights, and population and development. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and territories, working to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization is committed to achieving three transformative results: ending preventable maternal deaths, ending unmet need for family planning, and ending gender-based violence and harmful practices. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 emphasizes the importance of addressing the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on women's and girls' access to sexual and reproductive health services, and it calls for a collective effort to build forward better in the face of ongoing challenges.

Job Overview:
The Programme Associate plays a crucial role in supporting the design, planning, and management of UNFPA's country programme in Lao PDR. This position involves managing data inputs, providing logistical support, monitoring project implementation, and following up on recommendations to ensure the successful execution of the programme. The Programme Associate will work under the general supervision of the UNFPA Representative in Lao PDR and report directly to the Gender Programme Lead. The role is integral to facilitating the implementation of projects related to population and development, reproductive health, and gender, ensuring compliance with established systems and procedures, and contributing to the creation of knowledge through data analysis and synthesis.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Associate will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including participating in the formulation of the country programme and component projects by compiling and analyzing relevant information, drafting project documents, and preparing statistical data. They will support the evaluation of project and programme activities, establish assessment methods, and recommend corrective actions as necessary. The role includes conducting field visits, participating in review meetings, and preparing regular status and progress reports. The Programme Associate will guide the routine implementation of assigned projects, coordinate with national counterparts, and ensure their participation in training activities. Additionally, they will provide logistical support for project-related meetings and events, train project personnel on national execution and programme policies, and assist in advocacy and resource mobilization efforts by maintaining a network of donor contacts. The Programme Associate will also implement knowledge management strategies to capture lessons learned and best practices for future planning.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess completed Secondary Level Education as a minimum requirement, while a first-level university degree is desirable. The position requires at least 7 years of relevant experience in programme or project management support, with a preference for candidates who have worked in development organizations. Strong coordination and communication skills, both verbal and written, are essential, along with proficiency in computer software applications and corporate IT systems.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes completed Secondary Level Education, which is mandatory. A first-level university degree is considered desirable and may enhance a candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
The Programme Associate must have a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in programme or project management support. This experience should ideally be within development organizations, where candidates have demonstrated their ability to coordinate effectively and communicate with various stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is the primary working language of UNFPA. Fluency in Lao is desirable, and a working knowledge of other official UN languages is also considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse populations and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package that includes a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other applicable benefits. UNFPA is committed to providing a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, integrity, and a healthy work-life balance. The organization encourages applications from women, individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. UNFPA promotes equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all, regardless of personal characteristics. The selection and appointment process may involve background checks, medical clearance, visa issuance, and other administrative requirements. Importantly, UNFPA does not charge any fees in connection with the application or recruitment process.