Programme Management Assistant
Organizational Context
This Programme Management Assistant position is within the Strategic Planning, Programme Management, Evaluation and Change Service (SPECS) of the Executive Direction and Management Division (EDM) at the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in Geneva, Switzerland. The role reports directly to the Programme Management Officer.
Job Purpose
The Programme Management Assistant supports the coordination and planning of medium-sized, complex programme and project initiatives within OHCHR. This involves monitoring proposals, reviewing project documents and budgets for compliance, and ensuring funds are available and properly entered. The role acts as a key administrative liaison for programme implementation, facilitating actions such as personnel recruitment, travel arrangements, and procurement. Additionally, the assistant compiles project delivery data, drafts status reports identifying potential issues, prepares correspondence, and provides general office support, including managing correspondence, maintaining records, and organizing meetings.
Responsibilities
Assists in coordinating programme and project planning and preparation for medium-sized, complex initiatives, monitoring proposals and documentation. Compiles, summarizes, and presents basic programme and project information. Reviews programme and project documents, including cost plans and budgets, for completeness and compliance. Verifies budget revisions and fund availability, ensuring proper system entry. Serves as a focal point for administrative coordination of programme implementation, liaising with diverse units for requests, clearances, and follow-up on actions like personnel, travel, payments, and procurement. Compiles project delivery data, drafts status reports, and highlights shortfalls or budget overruns. Drafts correspondence on budget and other issues, and prepares periodic reports, briefing notes, and summaries. Provides general office assistance, handles complex inquiries, manages correspondence, maintains files, and organizes meetings and workshops.
Work Experience
A minimum of five years of experience in programme or project administration, technical cooperation, administrative services, or a related area is required. This is reduced to three years for candidates with a first-level university degree. One year of experience with ERP systems like Umoja and Inspira is desirable, as is experience within the UN common system or similar international organizations.
Skills
Professionalism, Planning and Organizing, Client Orientation, knowledge of internal policies and procedures, ability to work with figures, basic research skills, good judgment, efficiency, persistence, and ability to remain calm under stress.