Programme Associate

Job Posting Organization:
UNFPA, the 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, with a mission 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 health services and rights, while also promoting the principles of human rights and gender equality.

Job Overview:
The Programme Associate plays a crucial role in supporting the design, planning, and management of UNFPA's country programme in Laos. This position involves managing data inputs, providing logistical support, monitoring project implementation, and following up on recommendations. The Programme Associate will work under the supervision of the UNFPA Representative in Lao PDR and report directly to the Gender Programme Lead. The role is instrumental in facilitating the implementation of UNFPA's country programme, particularly in the areas of population and development, reproductive health, and gender. The Programme Associate will apply established systems and procedures to assist in knowledge creation by compiling, synthesizing, and analyzing relevant information, ensuring compliance with procedures, and developing appropriate mechanisms and systems.

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 work plans, and preparing statistical data. They will support the evaluation of project and programme activities, establish methods to assess achievements, and recommend corrective actions as necessary. The role includes conducting field visits, participating in review meetings and evaluation missions, and preparing regular inputs for status and progress reports. The Programme Associate will guide the routine implementation of assigned projects, coordinate the delivery of project inputs, and ensure the participation of national counterparts in training activities and study tours. Additionally, they will provide logistical support for project-related meetings, workshops, and events, train and guide project personnel on national execution and programme policies, and assist in advocacy and resource mobilization efforts by maintaining a network of donor and public information contacts. The Programme Associate will also help organize donor meetings and public information events, implement knowledge management strategies, and carry out any other duties as required by the supervisor and UNFPA leadership.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have completed Secondary Level Education, with a first-level university degree being desirable. They should possess at least 7 years of relevant experience in programme/project management support, preferably within development organizations. Strong coordination and communication skills, both verbal and written, are essential, along with the ability to network with partners and stakeholders. Proficiency in computer software applications and corporate IT systems is preferred, indicating a need for candidates to be technologically adept and capable of managing data effectively.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position includes completed Secondary Level Education as a minimum. A first-level university degree is desirable, indicating that candidates with higher education qualifications may have an advantage in the selection process. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of programme management and the specific needs of UNFPA's mission.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in programme or project management support. This experience should ideally be within development organizations, which would provide candidates with a solid understanding of the challenges and dynamics involved in managing projects in the context of international development. The ability to demonstrate good coordination skills and effective communication is crucial, as the role involves significant interaction with various stakeholders and partners.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within UNFPA and the UN system. Fluency in Lao is desirable, reflecting the need for effective communication within the local context. Additionally, a working knowledge of other official UN languages is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders and partners.

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