Programme Support Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund) is the lead UN agency for reproductive health and rights, established to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization operates globally, focusing on transformative results such as ending preventable maternal deaths, unmet needs for family planning, and gender-based violence. UNFPA is committed to human rights and ethical standards, seeking principled staff who can deliver high-impact results and manage resources effectively.

Job Overview:
The Programme Support Specialist will be responsible for delivering quality programme support services to both the Country Office staff and external clients. This role requires mastery of relevant rules, guidelines, and processes, as well as the application of established systems and procedures. The specialist will demonstrate a strong client and results orientation in service of the country programme. Key responsibilities include assisting in the creation of substantive knowledge by compiling, synthesizing, and analyzing information relevant to sexual and reproductive health, population and development, youth, and gender issues. The position is integral to the Programme Support Unit, which plays a crucial role in coordinating and reviewing programme planning and preparation of work plans, ensuring that the country programme is effectively implemented and monitored.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme Support Specialist include: A. Programme planning and coordination support: Assisting in the coordination and review of programme planning and preparation of work plans; participating in the preparation of annual and quarterly project work plans; arranging relevant work planning meetings; compiling, summarizing, and presenting basic information and data on the country programme; facilitating preparation of quarterly implementing partners’ collegial programme/project review meetings; drafting minutes of meetings; reviewing FACE forms and work plan progress reports; participating in monitoring visits to programme/project sites; and verifying programme/project assets annually. B. Financial management support: Assisting in the preparation of budget revisions based on approved work plans; monitoring project budgetary commitments; generating required financial reports; checking and examining various project financial reports for accuracy; taking required actions on operational and financial closure of projects; and following up with implementation partners for timely submission of progress reports and FACE forms. C. Administrative support: Ensuring all official documents are prepared and kept in project files; facilitating programme activities by arranging meeting schedules and coordinating logistical support; preparing necessary documentation and minutes of meetings; ensuring knowledge-sharing between programme and operations; drafting routine project-related correspondence; and providing information to missions, visitors, and programme counterparts. The specialist will also carry out any other relevant activities and responsibilities as assigned by the supervisor and senior management.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Programme Support Specialist position include a minimum of High School Education, with a Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field considered an asset. Candidates should have at least six (6) years of relevant experience with completion of High School Education, or two (2) years with a Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in the public or private sector and programme development. Previous experience with the UN is an advantage, along with knowledge of results-based management and asset and financial management. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to express ideas and concepts clearly and concisely in both written and oral form, and proficiency in current office software applications is essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a minimum of High School Education. A Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should possess at least six (6) years of relevant experience if they have completed High School Education, or two (2) years of experience with a Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in the public or private sector, particularly in programme development. Previous experience with the UN is advantageous, as it provides familiarity with the organization's operations and standards.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of other official UN languages, particularly French and/or Spanish, is desirable and can enhance a candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive salary, health insurance, and other benefits as applicable. It is important to note that UNFPA does not charge any application, processing, training, interviewing, testing, or other fees in connection with the application or recruitment process. Candidates are advised to be cautious of fraudulent notices, letters, or offers and can report any suspicious activity to the UNFPA fraud hotline.