Programme Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) was established in 1951 and is the leading inter-governmental organization in the field of migration. IOM works closely with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. The organization provides services and advice to governments and migrants, focusing on various aspects of migration management. IOM operates in numerous countries worldwide, addressing the complexities of migration and its impact on individuals and communities. The organization is committed to ensuring that migration is safe, dignified, and beneficial for all parties involved.

Job Overview:
The Programme Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the day-to-day administration, coordination, and implementation of activities related to the Migration Management Unit (MMU) and the Border Pass project. This position requires the candidate to assist in the smooth execution of IOM activities, particularly those aimed at facilitating safe cross-border mobility for small-scale traders and border communities along key corridors in Southern Africa. The Border Pass project is a collaborative initiative between Malawi and Mozambique, focusing on enhancing the mobility of individuals while ensuring their protection and support. The successful candidate will also contribute to various migration management initiatives, including the Global Compact for Migration (GCM), migration and development, and assisted voluntary return and reintegration (AVRR).

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Perform administrative, logistical, and coordination activities to support the implementation and coordination of all IOM Border Pass Project and Migration Management related activities.
• Assist in the smooth implementation of all IOM activities of the Border Pass project, Migration Management, and related projects by supporting the preparation and adaptation of work plans in coordination with the Programme Officer.
• Assist in responding to the protection needs of stranded migrants and victims of trafficking, supporting government counter-trafficking initiatives.
• Facilitate the return of vulnerable migrants to their countries of origin and maintain necessary documentation.
• Assist in tracking, coordinating, and reporting project expenditure in line with IOM internal reporting guidelines.
• Support the coordination of workshops, seminars, and conferences in accordance with the project work plan.
• Assist in drafting programmatic presentations, talking points, briefing papers, speeches, and press briefing notes, while promoting donor visibility.
• Undertake duty travel as required to ensure the smooth implementation of projects within the relevant portfolio.
• Perform other duties as may be assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate should possess a university degree or its equivalent in Political or Social Sciences, Business Administration, Migration Studies, International Relations, Law, or a related field from an accredited academic institution. Alternatively, a school diploma with five years of relevant experience is acceptable. The candidate must demonstrate operational and field experience in migration management issues, including government and donor liaison, and have a good understanding of government processes and engagement with technical partners. A strong level of expertise in thematic areas relevant to the project, such as integrated border governance (IBG), migrant assistance, labor migration, and migration policy, is essential. Knowledge of the project cycle is also required.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a university degree or its equivalent in relevant fields such as Political or Social Sciences, Business Administration, Migration Studies, International Relations, Law, or a related area from an accredited institution. Accredited universities are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database. For those with a school diploma, a minimum of five years of relevant professional experience is required.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least three years of relevant professional experience in migration management issues, including operational and field experience. This includes demonstrated knowledge of government processes and the ability to engage effectively with technical partners. The candidate should also have a good understanding of the thematic areas relevant to the project, including integrated border governance, migrant assistance, labor migration, and migration policy, as well as knowledge of the project cycle.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position. IOM's official languages include English, French, and Spanish. Proficiency in these languages will be evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments.

Additional Notes:
Any offer made to the candidate in relation to this vacancy notice is subject to funding confirmation. This selection process may be used to staff similar positions in various duty stations. Recommended candidates will remain eligible for appointment in a similar position for a period of 24 months. This post is subject to local recruitment, and only those holding a valid residence and work permit for Malawi will be eligible for consideration. Appointment will be contingent upon certification of medical fitness, verification of residency, visa, and authorizations by the concerned government, where applicable. IOM maintains a zero-tolerance policy on conduct incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and IOM, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority, and discrimination based on gender, nationality, age, race, sexual orientation, religious or ethnic background, or disabilities. IOM does not charge a fee at any stage of its recruitment process and only accepts duly completed applications submitted through the IOM online recruitment system.