Project Assistant

Organizational Context

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Saudi Arabia is collaborating with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) on a project to strengthen strategic planning, governance, financial management, and operational efficiency. This role supports the MoFA-UNDP project, contributing to Vision 2030 objectives and ensuring national ownership through joint planning and implementation.

Job Purpose

The Project Assistant will provide crucial administrative and technical support to the Head of the Partnership Office and project management team for the MoFA-UNDP project. This role is instrumental in ensuring the smooth daily operations, effective follow-up on project implementation, and efficient coordination with government counterparts, UNDP, and other stakeholders. The position contributes to the overall success of the project by facilitating communication, managing documentation, supporting reporting and compliance, and assisting with procurement processes, ultimately aiding in the achievement of the project's strategic objectives and contributing to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030.

Responsibilities

Provide comprehensive administrative and technical support to the Head of the Partnership Office for daily operations and joint projects with UNDP. Follow up on project implementation under the signed Project Document, ensuring procedural progress in coordination with relevant parties. Manage official correspondence and coordinate with internal and external entities to facilitate effective project information exchange. Support coordination efforts with government counterparts, UNDP, and other project stakeholders. Assist in managing Steering Committee matters, including correspondence, documentation, and follow-up on decisions. Contribute to developing the Partnership Office's governance framework and Steering Committee Rules of Procedure. Maintain and organize project files and documents for accuracy and accessibility. Support the preparation of periodic project reports and review project documents for compliance. Assist in procurement and contracting procedures through UNDP, including request processing and submission coordination. Contribute to knowledge networks and perform other duties as assigned.

Work Experience

A minimum of four years of experience in project support is required with secondary education. Alternatively, one year of experience in project support is required with a bachelor's degree. Experience with UN Results-Based Management and Monitoring and Evaluation is desired. Work experience with the UN and international organizations, as well as experience in procurement procedures, would be an asset.

Skills

Project management principles and best practices, IT and office software packages (MS Word, Excel), advanced knowledge of web-based management systems, strategic thinking, effective decision-making, negotiation and influence, communication (written and verbal), relationship management, and fluency in Arabic and English.

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