Project Management Assistant

Organizational Context

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority. The UNEP Law Division focuses on environmental law, governance, and policy. The African Elephant Fund (AEF) is a multi-donor trust fund implementing the African Elephant Action Plan (AEAP) across African elephant range states. This role supports the AEF's project portfolio management.

Job Purpose

This role is responsible for the effective and timely coordination, implementation, and oversight of the African Elephant Fund (AEF) project portfolio. The primary goal is to strengthen project delivery, ensure financial accountability, and enhance the impact of AEF-funded projects. This involves developing and managing the project portfolio, ensuring adherence to UNEP policies and donor requirements, and facilitating the successful execution of AEF activities. The position contributes to the overall mandate of the UNEP Law Division and the conservation goals of the African Elephant Action Plan.

Responsibilities

Develop and manage the AEF project portfolio, including preparing and processing legal instruments, budgets, and implementation plans in liaison with partners and internal services. Coordinate budget funding, disbursements to implementing partners, financial status reporting, and project budget revisions. Monitor project implementation and review progress reports to ensure timely completion and correct fund utilization. Provide guidance to implementing partners on risk management, procurement, and project closure. Support AEF Steering Committee meetings by preparing documentation and handling logistics. Prepare annual and periodic reports for the Steering Committee, donors, and stakeholders. Organize and coordinate meetings and events, including logistics and material preparation. Maintain the AEF projects database and ensure proper filing of project-related documents. Assist with HR processes, including consultant recruitment and payments.

Work Experience

A minimum of three years of relevant work experience in project planning, management, and analysis at the national or international level is required. Experience reviewing project documents, progress reports, work plans, and financial documents is essential. Experience in managing environmental projects, including monitoring and evaluation, is advantageous. Experience with multilateral/bilateral funding entities or national governments in Africa is desirable.

Skills

Project planning, Project management, Financial coordination, Budget management, Reporting, Stakeholder communication, Event organization, Database management, HR administration support, Risk management, Procurement guidance, Monitoring and evaluation.

Explore related opportunities