Programme Management Assistant
Organizational Context
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority, setting the environmental agenda and promoting sustainable development within the UN system. The Climate Change Division focuses on climate stability through strategic guidance and high-impact action, supporting countries in their transition towards decarbonization and resilience. This Programme Management Assistant role is situated within the Adaptation and Resilience Branch, specifically the Climate Change Adaptation Section in Nairobi.
Job Purpose
The Programme Management Assistant provides crucial support for the planning and implementation of complex project initiatives within UNEP's Climate Change Division, particularly for the Global EbA Fund (GEBAF). This role involves researching, compiling, and analyzing project data, assisting with budget proposals and monitoring expenditures, and coordinating project documentation. The incumbent will liaise with various stakeholders, manage administrative actions, maintain project files and databases, and generate reports. Additionally, the role contributes to performance reporting, ensures compliance with UNEP and donor guidelines, and supports the finalization and publication of project reports. The position also involves assisting with data visualization and updating information materials, playing a key part in the effective execution of climate adaptation projects.
Responsibilities
Provide assistance in planning and implementing complex project initiatives. Research, compile, analyze, and present project-related information and data. Coordinate project planning and preparation, monitoring proposal status and ensuring timely submission. Assist in preparing and analyzing project budget proposals, interpreting guidelines, and reviewing submissions. Monitor and evaluate programmes and projects, tracking data, analyzing expenditures, and initiating follow-up actions. Collaborate with project managers on performance reporting and liaise with stakeholders on project activities and reporting requirements. Draft project summaries, coordinate review processes, and manage the finalization of reports. Serve as a focal point for coordinating and expediting project implementation activities, including administrative actions and resolving implementation issues. Maintain project files and databases, generating periodic and ad hoc reports. Draft correspondence related to programme/project administration and prepare unit contributions for reports. Provide guidance and training to junior staff. Assist with data collection, analysis, presentation, and visualization for information sharing and decision-making.
Work Experience
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in project fund management, budgeting, or administrative work is required. This can be reduced to five years with a first-level university degree. Experience with ERP systems (Oracle, SAP, UMOJA), multiple donor-funded projects, reconciliations, reporting, and computer applications like Excel is required or desirable. Experience within the UN system or similar international organizations and data analytics experience are also desirable.
Skills
Professionalism, Planning & Organizing, Client Orientation, data analysis, modeling, interpretation, research, problem-solving, attention to detail, communication, and IT proficiency.