Programme Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights, aiming to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of approximately 4,000 employees. The organization is dedicated to advancing gender equality and empowering women and girls, and it plays a crucial role in addressing global population issues and reproductive health challenges. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 emphasizes three transformative results: ending preventable maternal deaths, fulfilling unmet needs for family planning, and eliminating gender-based violence and harmful practices. The organization is committed to building forward better in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, ensuring that women's and girls' access to health services is prioritized and that their rights are upheld.

Job Overview:
The Programme Assistant position is integral to the UNFPA's operations in the Caribbean, specifically supporting the Build Back Equal Project (BBE) across four project countries: Commonwealth of Dominica, Grenada, Saint Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The role involves providing comprehensive administrative, programmatic, and operational support to ensure the effective execution of UNFPA's programs. This includes managing supply chains and logistical support in humanitarian contexts, facilitating financial transactions, and ensuring compliance with established procedures. The Programme Assistant will also assist in knowledge management by compiling and synthesizing information related to population and development, sexual and reproductive health, and gender issues. The position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and collaboration with various stakeholders, including government entities, civil society organizations, and other UN agencies, to enhance the visibility and impact of UNFPA's initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Assistant will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: providing substantive programmatic and logistical support for UNFPA interventions, workshops, and capacity-building activities; ensuring timely and efficient financial and administrative support, including processing payments and maintaining petty cash; contributing to the smooth operation of the office by managing services and supplies; coordinating logistics and supply chain management for UNFPA operations; conducting field monitoring visits to ensure proper management of emergency supplies; liaising with stakeholders to advance UNFPA's mandate; synthesizing and documenting findings and best practices; supporting advocacy and resource mobilization efforts; maintaining networks of donor contacts; and representing UNFPA in joint UN mechanisms. The Programme Assistant will also facilitate financial record-keeping and assist in conducting assurance activities as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a High School Diploma as a minimum requirement, with a Bachelor's degree in operations (finance, logistics, administration) preferred. A minimum of 5 years of previous experience in secretarial or administrative functions is required, along with some experience in research assistance. Previous experience within the UN system is advantageous, as is knowledge of protocol. Strong interpersonal and organizational skills are essential, as well as proficiency in computer applications such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Good writing and communication skills are also necessary for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a High School Diploma as a baseline, with a preference for candidates holding a Bachelor's degree in fields related to operations, such as finance, logistics, or administration. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of programmatic and administrative support within the UNFPA framework.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in administrative or secretarial roles. Candidates should have a solid understanding of programmatic support functions and experience in managing logistics and financial processes. Familiarity with the UN system and its protocols is considered an asset, as is experience in research assistance and knowledge management.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the UNFPA. Additionally, a working knowledge of another official UN language is desirable, which would enhance the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to the organization's global mission.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package that includes leave days, health insurance, and additional compensation for pensions and social security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security obligations. UNFPA is committed to creating a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, and integrity, and encourages applications from women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented communities. The organization promotes equal opportunities in all aspects of employment, including training, compensation, and selection processes. The selection and engagement of personnel may be subject to background checks, medical clearance, and other administrative requirements. Importantly, UNFPA does not charge any fees during the application or selection process.