Join the United Nations: Programme Management Assistant Role

Are you passionate about making a global impact and working towards a more equitable world? The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is seeking a dedicated and skilled Programme Management Assistant to join our team in Geneva. This role offers an incredible opportunity to contribute to the vital work of promoting and protecting human rights worldwide.

Job Details

• Job Title: Programme Management Assistant
• Job Opening ID: 235926
• Job Network: Economic, Social, and Development
• Job Family: Programme Management
• Category and Level: General Service and Related Categories, G-5
• Duty Station: Geneva
• Department/Office: Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights
• Date Posted: May 31, 2024
• Deadline: June 29, 2024
• Work Location: Geneva
• Expected Duration: Minimum 2 – Maximum 6 months

Org. Setting and Reporting

This position is located in the Special Procedures Branch (SPB), Thematic Engagement, Special Procedures, and Right to Development Division (TESPRDD) of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), Geneva. The incumbent works under the general supervision of the Chief of SPB and the direct supervision of the Section Chief/Unit Coordinator.

Responsibilities

Within limits of delegated authority and depending on location, the Programme Assistant may be responsible for the following duties:

• Organize and coordinate administrative arrangements for missions, meetings, and consultations, including travel arrangements, rental of conference rooms and equipment, preparation of attendance lists, and background materials, and any follow-up actions; provide logistical support during missions and meetings.
• Compile, summarize, and present basic information/data on specific programmes/projects and related topics or issues.
• Review project documents, especially cost plans/budgets, for completeness and compliance with relevant rules and procedures prior to submission for final approval and signature; identify inconsistencies; distribute project documents to relevant parties upon approval.
• Serve as a focal point for administrative coordination of programme/project implementation activities, involving extensive liaison with diverse organizational units to initiate requests, obtain necessary clearances, process and follow-up on administrative actions, e.g., recruitment and appointment of personnel, travel arrangements, training/study tours, authorization of payments, disbursement of funds, procurement of equipment and services, etc.
• Compile, summarize, and enter data on project delivery; draft related status reports, identifying shortfalls in delivery, budget overruns, etc., and bring them to the attention of management.
• Draft correspondence on budget-related issues and prepare and update periodic reports, briefing notes, graphic and statistical summaries, accounting spreadsheets, etc.
• Provide general office assistance; respond to complex information requests and inquiries; review, log and route incoming correspondence; set up and maintain files/records; organize meetings, workshops; handle routine administrative tasks, such as maintaining attendance records, assessing telephone billing, etc.
• Participate in the development/modernization/updating of databases in the Branch and provide feedback to developers as required; undertake all necessary actions in relation to the processing of SP communications through Quick Response Desk and Country Visit Databases, prepare statistics and other information. Participate in the maintenance of filing and reference systems including archiving of confidential records.
• Provide guidance/training to new/junior staff.
• Assist with the collection and analysis of data as well as preparation of data presentations and reports for information sharing, responding to queries, knowledge management, planning, and decision making.
• Assist with visualizations and updating information material such as web pages or leaflets and public material.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Competencies

• PROFESSIONALISM: Knowledge of internal policies, processes, and procedures related to programme/project administration, implementation, evaluation, technical cooperation, programming, and budgeting. Ability to work well with figures, undertake basic research, and gather information from standard sources. Shows pride in work and achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines, and achieving results; shows persistence when faced with challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. Commitment to gender equality by ensuring equal participation and involvement of women and men.
• TEAMWORK: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decisions; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.
• PLANNING AND ORGANIZING: Develops clear goals consistent with agreed strategies; identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required; allocates appropriate time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; uses time efficiently.

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent.

Work Experience

• At least five years of experience in programme or project administration, technical cooperation, or a related area is required. The minimum years of relevant experience is reduced to three years for candidates who possess a first-level university degree or higher.
• Out of the five years, at least three years of experience within the United Nations common system or similar international organization is desirable.
• Experience with word processing, spreadsheets, and communication software is desirable.
• Experience in providing support to senior-level officials is desirable.

Languages

• Fluency in oral and written English is required.
• Fluency in French or Spanish is required, and fluency in the other is desirable.

Assessment

• Evaluation of qualified candidates may include an assessment exercise followed by a competency-based interview.

Special Notice

• Extension of the appointment is subject to the extension of the mandate and/or the availability of funds.
• This position is subject to local recruitment pursuant to staff rule 4.4 of the United Nations Staff Rules. Applicants must be authorized to work in the duty station where the position is located. Eligible applicants from outside the duty station are responsible for relocation expenses. Staff members subject to local recruitment are not eligible for allowances or benefits exclusively applicable to international recruitment.

The United Nations is committed to diversity and inclusion. Employment decisions are made based on qualifications and organizational needs, regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, race, religion, cultural and ethnic backgrounds, or disabilities. Reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities may be provided upon request.

United Nations Considerations

• Candidates will not be considered for employment if they have committed violations of international human rights law, international humanitarian law, sexual exploitation, abuse, or harassment.
• Employment decisions are based on securing the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity. The United Nations Secretariat is a non-smoking environment.

Apply Now

Join the United Nations and be part of a dedicated team working to promote and protect human rights globally. The Programme Management Assistant role in Geneva offers a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects and make a significant impact. Apply now to embark on this rewarding career path.