Programme Management Assistant
Organizational Context
This position is within the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), specifically in the Regional Office for the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) located in Nassau, the Bahamas. The role reports directly to the OHCHR Regional Representative, supporting the regional human rights mandate.
Job Purpose
The Programme Assistant provides essential administrative, financial, human resources, and programmatic support to the OHCHR Regional Office in Nassau. This role is crucial for ensuring the high quality and accuracy of operations, facilitating seamless collaboration with OHCHR offices in Geneva and Panama. The incumbent assists in the planning, coordination, and implementation of departmental programme and project initiatives, including budget preparation, monitoring, and reporting. They also play a key role in managing project activities, liaising with stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with organizational procedures, thereby contributing to the effective delivery of OHCHR's mandate in the region.
Responsibilities
The Programme Assistant is responsible for providing comprehensive administrative, financial, HR, and programmatic support to the OHCHR Regional Office. This includes assisting in the planning and implementation of complex programme and project initiatives, coordinating planning activities, and monitoring project proposals to ensure timely submission and approval. The role involves supporting budget preparation and analysis, interpreting guidelines, and preparing reports on expenditures and funds. Additionally, the incumbent monitors and evaluates programmes, tracks project data, and initiates follow-up actions. They serve as a focal point for coordinating project implementation, managing HR and travel issues, and resolving related administrative matters. This includes drafting job descriptions, processing recruitment actions, and arranging travel. The role also entails maintaining databases, generating reports, and drafting correspondence, as well as providing guidance to junior staff.
Work Experience
A minimum of seven years of experience in programme or project administration, technical cooperation, or a related field is required. This requirement is reduced to five years for candidates with a first-level university degree or higher. Four years of experience within the UN common system or a similar international organization is desirable, as is experience with ERP systems and talent management platforms like Inspira.
Skills
Proficiency in programme/project administration, implementation, and evaluation; knowledge of programming and budgeting; strong communication skills (written and verbal); excellent planning and organizational abilities; ability to work with figures and conduct basic research; good judgment; and efficiency in meeting commitments.